Transport Council: Discussions on Driving Licence Directive

Publication date: 07 October 2004

EU Transport Ministers agreed today on the introduction of a new European-wide plastic driving licence, carrying a photo and a chip. The new licences will have a validity for ten years. The existing paper licences will still be valid, but no longer be issued and will be gradually replaced when they expire.

Next steps:
The European Parliament will now look into the proposal (COM(2003) 621 final - COD(2003) 0252). The first reading is scheduled for February 2005.

For more information:
Summary Transport Council (7 October 2004)

transport_council_071004.pdf (206 KB)

Related News Items:
- Third Driving Licence Directive on the EP Agenda (30 July 2004)
- Setback for EU driving licence (6 April 2004)
- 3rd Driving Licence Directive proposed by Commission (21 October 2003)