1. digital driver's license - from your wallet to your cell phone
From 2025, the digital driver's license will be rolling off our smartphones - and Reisepassführer will provide you with all the important information in good time. The digital driver's license will be stored within the EU as part of the EUDI wallet. This means: practical, because you can show your smartphone instead of a plastic card. However, you remain free: Bronze fans simply stick with the tried-and-tested card model.
The digital version also ensures greater security. This is because QR codes and encrypted storage make counterfeiting or misuse more difficult. Despite these advantages, the plastic card remains valid for the time being - perfect for anyone who wants to play it safe and is not yet a fan of technology.
2. focus on expiration dates - 15 years validity for cars & co.
Let's move on: In future, driving licenses will be renewed every 15 years for car and motorcycle licenses. A five-year period applies for trucks and buses. This ensures that the document is more up to date while remaining clear.
However, the state can shorten the period for older people (aged 65 and over). This concession creates flexibility - and ensures that each individual can take advantage of suitable regulations. In this way, mobility remains safe and fair at the same time.
3. health check? Only if necessary!
Although it was initially said that older people would have to regularly prove their fitness to drive, the EU has dropped this obligation. Instead, countries can decide for themselves: They can require a medical examination or a self-assessment - whatever suits the local situation.
This simplifies the process considerably. And you can decide for yourself which is more suitable in your country - whether it's a formality or a medical check.
4. accompanied driving standardized - also for trucks
Another building block: accompanied driving from the age of 17 will be standardized across the EU. Particularly exciting: this model will also apply to the truck class (C) in the future - ideal for countering the shortage of drivers in freight transport.
This means that younger people benefit longer from the learning system with those responsible at their side - and at the same time gain mobility without losing experience.
5 Probationary period & sanctions: Clear rules for newcomers
From 2025, new drivers will have a standardized probationary period of at least two years across the EU. At the same time, the rules for alcohol, drugs and other offenses will be tightened - with stricter sanctions.
This teaches new drivers the „right“ way to behave - fairly, consistently and clearly. The aim is to reduce the number of accidents, while new drivers are more confident and safer on the road.
6th driving license test - modern and realistic
In future, you will have to be able to do more than just drive in a straight line: The driving test will be expanded to include content such as the safe use of assistance systems, responsible cell phone use and snow or slippery road situations.
Mobility 2025 is not just about driving, but also about realistic preparation for modern traffic situations - efficient, anticipatory and practical. Environmentally conscious driving also plays a role - for example through smooth gear changes or CO₂ reduction.
7. more weight allowed - for motorhomes
With the new driver's license, you can join the motorhome club earlier: Class B will in future be extended to up to 4.25 tons in weight, with trailers up to 5 tons. Prerequisite: You must drive accident-free for two years - or take a supplementary training course or test.
A real benefit for van fans and camping enthusiasts: more freedom, less effort - with Passport guide you will soon find tips on how to make the switch safely and easily.
8 Uniform procedure for driving license revocation
Accidents abroad? In future, driving disqualifications will count across the EU - thanks to central implementation. This means that cell phone violations, points and driving bans will be recorded and communicated throughout the EU.
This networking ensures that there are no more loopholes. A decision in one EU country has an effect in all of them - and ensures greater fairness and responsibility in cross-border traffic.
9. mandatory exchange: old driving licenses out, new ones in
Finally, practical information: driving licenses issued before 2013 (paper or old cards) must be exchanged gradually. By 2025, it will be the turn of those born from 1971 onwards - Reisepassführer will also remind you of your deadline in good time.
This structured exchange ensures that everyone carries up-to-date, forgery-proof cards - securely, uniformly and clearly.
Conclusion - Mobile through 2025 and beyond
With the new 2025 driving license regulation, the EU is creating clarity, security and uniformity. Digital and physical variants will remain equivalent, validity periods will be adjusted and tests will become more modern and realistic. At the same time, the changeover will keep you up to date - and Reisepassführer will be with you every step of the way.
