**Cyprus Moves to Update Driving Licence Rules in Line with New EU Directive**
Authorities in Cyprus have initiated the process of updating the legislation governing driving permits to align with a new directive set forth by the European Union. This move, reported on Thursday, aims to modernize the driving licence framework in response to the updated EU Driving Licence Directive, which introduces several significant changes.
One of the most notable changes under the new directive is the introduction of fully digital mobile driving licences. These digital licences will be stored in the EU Digital Identity Wallet, a digital platform designed to simplify administrative procedures for both individuals and national authorities. The transition to digital licences is expected to streamline processes such as licence replacement, renewal, and exchange, particularly for citizens moving between EU member states. While digital licences will be issued by default after a brief transition period, physical driving licences will still be available upon request for those who may not own a smartphone or prefer to have a physical document.
The updated directive also establishes a mandatory minimum probationary period of two years for novice drivers. During this period, novice drivers will be subject to stricter rules and sanctions across the entire EU. This initiative is particularly significant given statistics indicating that, while young drivers make up only eight percent of all car drivers, they are involved in two out of five fatal collisions. The new measures aim to enhance road safety by ensuring that novice drivers are adequately monitored during their early driving years.
In addition to the probationary period, the directive introduces an EU-wide accompanied driving scheme for 17-year-olds seeking to obtain their driving licence for cars (category B). This scheme is intended to provide younger drivers with the opportunity to gain practical driving experience under the supervision of an experienced driver.
Another critical aspect of the updated directive is the systematic assessment of drivers' fitness to drive. Under the new rules, driving licence holders will be required to complete medical self-assessments at the time of licence issuance and during each renewal. This initiative aims to ensure that drivers remain physically and mentally fit to operate a vehicle. National authorities will also have the option to implement additional assessment systems tailored to their specific needs.
Furthermore, the directive addresses mutual recognition of driving disqualifications, ensuring that drivers who commit serious offenses will face consequences regardless of whether they are driving within their home country or abroad. This provision is expected to enhance road safety by discouraging reckless driving behavior across borders.
As Cyprus moves forward with these legislative updates, the Road Transport Department (RTD) is currently evaluating the most effective models to implement the accompanied driving scheme and the probationary period. The timeline for these changes is clearly defined; by November 2028, EU member states, including Cyprus, must have the foundational legislation in place. Most provisions of the directive are set to be enforced by November 2029, while the accompanied driving scheme for 17-year-olds is expected to commence in November 2028.
The RTD is in the process of drafting the necessary legislation, which will be subject to a public consultation phase. This consultation will allow stakeholders and the general public to provide input on the proposed changes, ensuring that the new regulations meet the needs of all road users in Cyprus.
As Cyprus prepares to implement these updates, the focus remains on enhancing road safety, simplifying administrative processes, and ensuring that drivers are well-equipped to navigate the roads responsibly. The alignment with the EU directive marks a significant step towards modernizing the driving licence framework in Cyprus and improving overall road safety standards.