Third EU Driving Directive

The Department for Transport (DfT) has published a consultation document outlining its proposals for implementing the third EU directive on driving licences. In general, the directive harmonises definitions of vehicle sub-categories and rules on the duration of the validity of a driving licence across the European Union and the European Economic Area.

The BVRLA will await with interest the outcome of the consultation as the manner in which the directive is implemented will have the potential to impact members' customers. For example, the directive requires that drivers of large and medium-sized buses and lorries renew their licences and demonstrate continuing medical fitness every five years, rather than the present UK requirement for five-yearly renewal only after age 45.

There are currently no plans to introduce a smart card driving licence but it is proposed that old-style UK licences be recalled (although there will be a separate consultation on this).

The consultation will run until 5 February 2010.

For full details from the DfT website click here...

source: BVRLA