A new EU directive on driving licences, recently adopted by the European Parliament, is already sparking a backlash — especially among older drivers who say the measures unfairly target them.

Stricter medical checks, shorter licence validity, and tighter renewal rules are at the heart of the controversy. Many fear that the reform, part of Brussels’ ambitious “Vision Zero 2050” strategy to eliminate road deaths, will penalize senior citizens rather than protect them.

Adopted on October 21, 2025, the directive marks a major shift for motorists across Europe. It extends the validity of car and motorcycle licences to 15 years, while heavy goods vehicle and bus licences remain valid for five years. A new EU-wide digital licence will also be introduced, accessible via smartphone or in paper form for those less digitally connected.

Another key change is the recognition of driving bans across all member states, preventing sanctioned drivers from simply crossing borders to get back behind the wheel.

But it’s the introduction of mandatory health checks to assess physical and visual fitness that has caused the most anger. For Brussels, the goal is clear — to reduce accidents and adapt licensing rules to an ageing population. For many, though, it feels like thinly veiled discrimination.

“Disguised Discrimination” or Common Sense?

Under the new directive, member states can require regular medical exams before each licence renewal, especially after a certain age — 65, 70 or 75, depending on national law. The checks may include eyesight tests, reflex assessments, or general health reviews.

Countries like Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands already apply such measures. In Spain and the Netherlands, drivers over 65 must undergo a medical exam every five years, while in Italy the licence validity drops to just three years after 70.

France currently has no such obligation, which explains the growing concern that the EU reform could change that. Many senior drivers view the idea as stigmatizing and unfair.