Rules regarding the minimum age for obtaining a heavy goods vehicle license vary considerably from one country to another within the European Union. Currently, a preliminary agreement has been reached to harmonize these rules and address the growing shortage of truck drivers. This agreement proposes reducing the minimum age required to obtain a heavy goods vehicle license from 21 to 18 years in the 27 member states.
In France, for example, applicants for the C/CE license must generally be at least 21 years old, unless they are pursuing specific vocational training, such as a CAP, a Bac pro, or a professional qualification, in which case they can obtain their license at 18. This measure aims to attract more young people to the truck driving profession, a sector in need of labor.
This agreement is part of a package of three measures adopted by the European Parliament and Council to modernize driving license rules and improve road safety. Before becoming effective, these measures still need to be formally approved by the Council and Parliament. Once approved, Member States will have four years to incorporate these new provisions into their national legislation.
Other new features of this agreement include the introduction of accompanied driving for 17-year-olds, already widespread for those with a B license. This measure would allow young people to drive trucks or light commercial vehicles within their national territory, provided they are accompanied by an experienced driver. This initiative aims to improve training for young drivers and strengthen road safety.
In addition, the agreement provides for the digitalization of driving licenses by 2030, allowing drivers to access their licenses through a European digital identity wallet. This measure aims to simplify administrative procedures and facilitate the recognition of driving licenses between Member States.
Finally, the agreement emphasizes the safety of the most vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists. Theoretical and practical exams will be adapted to better take into account the risks associated with these users, as well as new technologies embedded in vehicles.
These ambitious reforms demonstrate the European Union's commitment to modernising and harmonising driving rules, while addressing the current challenges facing the road transport sector.