Some drivers over 65 will lose their licenses: what restrictions await motorists.

Conditions for admitting various drivers to operate vehicles are changing in Europe. This applies to both older and younger drivers. The dependence on the driver's age, road safety, and economic needs creates a complex regulatory system.

The European Union introduces new rules for drivers over 65

As part of the 'Vision Zero' initiative, the European Union is introducing new rules for drivers over 65 aimed at reducing the number of fatalities on the roads. In the Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria, psychological tests will become mandatory for renewing driving licenses starting in 2024. Research has shown that elderly people are at greater risk of fatal consequences in accidents compared to younger drivers.

The United Kingdom has tightened restrictions for drivers over 70 who have lost the right to drive motorhomes and caravans. In Italy, drivers over 75 must undergo annual medical examinations, including dementia tests.

Not everyone supports this approach. Lydia Peters, the Minister of Flanders, believes that 'age is not a measure of competence.'

Differences in national systems

In different EU countries, the requirements for medical assessments for drivers vary. In Portugal, mandatory medical examinations start from the age of 50, which is 15 years earlier than the EU average. In Spain, there is a multi-tier system of checks: from 65 years, a medical examination is required every 5 years, from 70 years - every 3 years, and from 75 years - every 2 years. Lithuania requires health checks for drivers from the age of 55, focusing on vision and hearing. France has no upper age limits, but licenses are renewed only based on a medical opinion.

In Eastern Europe, the approach is stricter. In Latvia, medical examinations start from 60 years of age, and in Greece - after 65 years.

Age restrictions for young drivers spark debates

Most countries allow obtaining licenses for passenger cars from the age of 18. However, there are exceptions; for example, France, Spain, and the Netherlands allow accompanied driving from the age of 16. In Ireland and Sweden, independent driving is permitted from 17 years of age.

In 2025, accompanied driving is planned to be implemented from 17 years with a speed limit of 90 km/h. However, this has raised concerns due to accident statistics involving young drivers.

Organizations such as GRACQ note that 22% of fatal accidents in France involved drivers aged 18 to 24.

For trucks and buses, the relevant age restrictions are higher: 21 years in Germany and 24 years in Belgium. The lowering of the age for truck drivers to 17 has faced criticism due to accident statistics involving young drivers.

Balancing safety and rights

Statistics show that drivers over 75 account for only 8% of all road users, but they account for 15% of fatalities. This indicates the need for special attention to this age group.

In 2023, Belgium, Germany, and Austria opposed the intention to introduce a single European rule for a five-year license validity for elderly drivers, considering this approach discriminatory.

Trends in Europe show an increase in the frequency of medical examinations for individuals over 65, a gradual liberalization of rules for young drivers, and plans to implement digital driving licenses and harmonize age standards for freight transport by 2030.

The system of age restrictions in Europe reflects a complex balance between road safety, citizens' rights, and economic needs. National features remain important, requiring further analysis of their impact on cross-border mobility and road safety.