The driving license goes digital, and the exam rules and sanctions change radically

The European Union has adopted new driving licence regulations, bringing major changes for all drivers in the 27 member states. Among the most important news are the introduction of a digital licence on a mobile phone, the possibility of driving from the age of 17 under supervision and the application of licence suspension across the Union.

Drivers in Romania and across the European Union are preparing for a profound transformation of the road legal framework. The new European Driving Licence Directive was designed with an ambitious objective: to reduce the number of serious accidents and support the European road safety strategy, which aims to eliminate road deaths by 2050.

Although the European rules have already entered into force at Community level, they are not immediately applicable. Romania, like all other member states, must go through a transition phase to adapt its national legislation, administrative procedures, driving tests and IT systems.

1. The digital license: The driving act moves to the smartphone

The main innovation that will change the daily routine of drivers is the digital driving license.

•     Integration on the phone: The document will be accessible directly from the smartphone and will be integrated into the European Digital Identity Wallet.
•     EU-wide recognition: The e-license will be valid and officially recognised in all Member States, simplifying roadside and border checks.
•     Physical card remains an option: To guarantee accessibility, drivers will still be able to request the issuance of a physical plastic permit, without undue delays.
•     Gradual transition: Until the permit becomes exclusively digital, both variants will coexist for a transition period.

2. Driving from 17 years old and stricter conditions for beginners

The training framework for young drivers is completely redesigned, with an emphasis on gaining practical experience in safe conditions:

•     Accompanied driving system: Young people will be able to obtain a category B license from the age of 17, but will only be able to drive the vehicle accompanied by an experienced driver until they reach the age of 18.
•     Probationary period of at least 2 years: New drivers will be subject to a probationary period with stricter rules. During this period, penalties for serious offenses — such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs — will be substantially more severe.

3. Modernized Auto Exam: Focus on Risks, Technology, and Vulnerable Participants

The format of the theoretical and practical examination adapts to the realities of contemporary traffic and the technological development of motor vehicles:

"The assessment process will no longer be limited to basic maneuvers, but will test the candidate's ability to anticipate hazards and protect vulnerable road users."

Changes to the exam include:

•     Vulnerable participants: The assessment will place particular emphasis on preventing accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists or e-scooter users.
•     Assistance Systems (ADAS): Future drivers will need to prove that they understand the operation of advanced assistance systems and automated technologies on modern cars.
•     Preventive habits: Knowledge of blind spots, the dangers of using a mobile phone while driving, and safe maneuvers (such as carefully opening the door to protect cyclists) will be assessed.

4. No escape: Suspension of the license has effects throughout the Union

Until now, a driver sanctioned with a suspended license in another EU member state could often continue to drive in his or her home country or in other partner countries.

The new directive eliminates this loophole: a suspension or withdrawal of the right to drive imposed in one Member State will have effects throughout the European Union. Thus, serious offences – driving under the influence of prohibited substances, extreme speeding or accidents with casualties – automatically lead to a driving ban at EU level.

Implementation calendar in Romania

The changes will come into force gradually, giving Romanian authorities time to adapt the Highway Code and databases:

Stage	Deadline	Details
Legal Transposition	November 26, 2028	The deadline by which Romania must adapt its national legal framework.
General Application	November 26, 2029	The date from which most provisions become effectively applicable.
Early Application	Certain provisions	Measures such as accompanied driving may be introduced earlier.

Until these administrative steps are completed, current physical permits remain fully valid.