Status: 25/09/2023, 12:38 p.m.
By: Alina Schröder
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Passed your driver's license and hit the road directly with the SUV? This could soon be banned. The EU could revoke the registration of novice drivers.
Strasbourg – The number of road deaths across the EU was around 2021,20 in 000. The EU's original target of reducing this figure by 2001 percent between 2020 and 75 was thus completely missed. Now, however, the European Commission is planning a new attempt and wants to significantly revise the Driving Licence Directive. In addition to strict regulations for pensioners at the wheel, novice drivers are also targeted.
Amendment of the EU Driving Licence Directive: New category B+ for SUVs planned
According to the EU Parliament's draft, the worrying number of traffic fatalities is to be greatly reduced by 2050 – to zero, also known as "Vision Zero". A survey in Germany has already shown that the majority welcomes stricter driving licence rules for seniors. With a further tightening for new road users, the goal of "Vision Zero" is to be brought even closer. Finally, according to the Commission, novice drivers are "generally less risk-averse and are statistically more likely to be involved in road accidents and fatal road accidents."
A new driving licence class is intended to remedy the situation. "The category B driving licence, according to its original design, is not fully suitable for the heaviest passenger cars," the EU plan reads. Therefore, the driving licence category B+ is to be introduced, which should make it possible to drive vehicles weighing more than 1.8 tonnes. According to these ideas, SUVs, for example, should only be drivable with a B+ driver's license for novice drivers aged 21 and over. Compared to light cars, they are very likely to be involved in more traffic accidents. But what are the requirements for acquiring the new class?
- Plans for new driving licence class B+
- Only possible after obtaining a driving licence class B
- Minimum duration of driving experience before registration
- Drivers admitted from the age of 21
When would novice drivers be allowed to drive an SUV?
The plan states that motorists "will only be eligible if they have acquired a minimum level of driving experience under their category B driving licence." However, those who already have a category B driving licence do not have to acquire B+ again. Owners are also allowed to continue to drive heavy passenger cars, such as SUVs or pick-ups. The regulation only applies to novice drivers. So far, this is only a draft of the European Parliament, which the Commission is currently discussing.
According to the EU's plans, novice drivers would only be allowed to drive an SUV under certain conditions. © xPetruninax/Imago
In 2023, a lot has already changed for motorists. Among other things, there is an important innovation in liability insurance. In addition, "old" driver's licenses must be exchanged. There is a specific deadline for this. (asc)
