A new driving licence has been introduced throughout the EU. The new credit-card style format will replace around 100 different types of licence currently in use by some 300 million drivers.

The new licence includes a photograph of the holder and Member States can include a microchip giving access to information about the card holder. The licence has also been made almost impossible

to falsify.

The European Commission believes that fragmented licensing is an obstacle to road safety as it encourages licence tourism. Potentially reckless drivers, such as those banned due to traffic offences, may try to get a new licence in another country. The introduction of a licence recognised in all Member States will also support mobility of responsible drivers and help to strengthen holders’ European identity.

The licence is backed up by a European electronic data exchange system, which will facilitate the management of driving licences by administrations, especially for persons changing residence from one Member State to another. It will also contribute to better detection of driving licence fraud.

Car drivers and motorcyclists will need to renew their documents every 10-15 years (depending on which country they are in).  Licences for lorry drivers will be valid for five years and a medical check-up will be necessary for renewal.