- Latest available (Revised)
- Point in Time (26/08/2009)
- Original (As adopted by EU)
Directive 2006/126/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on driving licences (Recast) (Text with EEA relevance)
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Version Superseded: 19/12/2011
EU Directives are published on this site to aid cross referencing from UK legislation. Since IP completion day (31 December 2020 11.00 p.m.) no amendments have been applied to this version.
The card shall be made of polycarbonate.
Methods for testing the characteristics of driving licences for the purpose of confirming their compliance with the international standards shall be in accordance with ISO 10373.
The threats to the physical security of driving licences are:
production of false cards: creating a new object which bears great resemblance to the document, either by making it from scratch or by copying an original document,
material alteration: changing a property of an original document, e.g. modifying some of the data printed on the document;
The overall security lies in the system in its entirety, consisting of the application process, the transmission of data, the card body material, the printing technique, a minimum set of different security features and the personalisation process.
The material used for driving licences shall be made secure against forgery by using the following techniques (mandatory security features):
card bodies shall be UV dull,
a security background pattern designed to be resistant to counterfeit by scanning, printing or copying, using rainbow printing with multicolour security inks and positive and negative guilloche printing. The pattern shall not be composed of the primary colours (CMYK), shall contain complex pattern designs in a minimum of two special colours and shall include micro lettering,
optical variable elements providing adequate protection against copying and tampering of the photograph,
laser engraving,
in the area of the photograph the security design background and photograph should overlap on at least its border (weakening pattern).
In addition, the material used for driving licences shall be made secure against forgery by using at least three of the following techniques (additional security features):
colour-shifting inks*,
termochromic ink*,
custom holograms*,
variable laser images*,
ultraviolet fluorescent ink, visible and transparent,
iridescent printing,
digital watermark in the background,
infrared or phosphorescent pigments,
tactile characters, symbols or patterns*.
Member States are free to introduce additional security features. As a basis, the techniques indicated with an asterisk are to be preferred as they enable the law enforcement officers to check the validity of the card without any special means.
Page 1 shall contain:
the words ‘Driving Licence’ printed in large type in the language or languages of the Member State issuing the licence;
the name of the Member State issuing the licence (optional);
the distinguishing sign of the Member State issuing the licence, printed in negative in a blue rectangle and encircled by twelve yellow stars; the distinguishing signs shall be as follows:
:
Belgium
:
Czech Republic
:
Denmark
:
Germany
:
Estonia
:
Greece
:
Spain
:
France
:
Ireland
:
Italy
:
Cyprus
:
Latvia
:
Lithuania
:
Luxembourg
:
Hungary
:
Malta
:
The Netherlands
:
Austria
:
Poland
:
Portugal
:
Slovenia
:
Slovakia
:
Finland
:
Sweden
:
The United Kingdom;
information specific to the licence issued, numbered as follows:
surname of the holder;
other name(s) of the holder;
date and place of birth;
date of issue of the licence;
date of expiry of the licence or a dash if the licence is valid indefinitely under the provision of Article 7(2)(c);
the name of the issuing authority (may be printed on page 2);
a different number from the one under heading 5, for administrative purposes (optional);
number of the licence;
photograph of the holder;
signature of the holder;
permanent place of residence, or postal address (optional);
category of vehicle(s) the holder is entitled to drive (national categories shall be printed in a different type from harmonised categories);
the words ‘European Communities model’ in the language(s) of the Member State issuing the licence and the words ‘Driving Licence’ in the other languages of the Community, printed in pink to form the background of the licence:
Permiso de Conducción
Řidičský průkaz
Kørekort
Führerschein
Juhiluba
Άδεια Οδήγησης
Driving Licence
Permis de conduire
Ceadúas Tiomána
Patente di guida
Vadītāja apliecība
Vairuotojo pažymėjimas
Vezetői engedély
Liċenzja tas-Sewqan
Rijbewijs
Prawo Jazdy
Carta de Condução
Vodičský preukaz
Vozniško dovoljenje
Ajokortti
Körkort;
Colour references:
blue: Pantone Reflex Blue,
yellow: Pantone Yellow.
Page 2 shall contain:
category of vehicle(s) the holder is entitled to drive (national categories shall be printed in a different type from harmonised categories);
date of first issue of each category (this date must be repeated on the new licence in the event of subsequent replacement or exchange);
date of expiry of each category;
additional information/restriction(s), in code form, facing the (sub)category affected.
The codes shall be as follows:
:
harmonised Community codes
Glasses
Contact lense(s)
Protective glass
Opaque lense
Eye cover
Glasses or contact lenses
Hearing aid for one ear
Hearing aid for two ears
Upper limb prosthesis/orthosis
Lower limb prosthesis/orthosis
Limited to day time journeys (for example: one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset)
Limited to journeys within a radius of … km from holder's place of residence or only inside city/region
Driving without passengers
Limited to journeys with a speed not greater than … km/h
Driving authorised solely when accompanied by a holder of a driving licence
Without trailer
No driving on motorways
No alcohol
Manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Electronically operated transmission
Adjusted gear-shift lever
Without secondary gearbox
Adjusted gear-shift lever
Manual clutch
Automatic clutch
Partitioning in front of/fold away/detached clutch pedal
Adjusted brake pedal
Enlarged brake pedal
Brake pedal suitable for use by left foot
Brake pedal by sole
Tilted brake pedal
Manual (adapted) service brake
Maximum use of reinforced service brake
Maximum use of emergency brake integrated in the service brake
Adjusted parking brake
Electrically operated parking brake
(Adjusted) foot operated parking brake
Partitioning in front of/fold away/detached brake pedal
Brake operated by knee
Electrically operated service brake
Adjusted accelerator pedal
Accelerator pedal by sole
Tilted accelerator pedal
Manual accelerator
Accelerator at knee
Servo accelerator (electronic, pneumatic, etc.)
Accelerator pedal on the left of brake pedal
Accelerator pedal on the left
Partitioning in front of/fold away/detached accelerator pedal
Parallel pedals
Pedals at (or almost at) the same level
Accelerator and brake with sliding
Accelerator and brake with sliding and orthesis
Fold away/detached accelerator and brake pedals
Raised floor
Partitioning on the side of the brake pedal
Partitioning for prosthesis on the side of the brake pedal
Partitioning in front of the accelerator and brake pedals
Heel/leg support
Electrically operated accelerator and brake
(Lights switches, windscreen wiper/washer, horn, direction indicators, etc.)
Control devices operable without negative influence on the steering and handling
Control devices operable without releasing the steering wheel and accessories (knob, fork, etc.)
Control devices operable without releasing the steering wheel and accessories (knob, fork, etc.) with the left hand
Control devices operable without releasing the steering wheel and accessories (knob, fork, etc.) with the right hand
Control devices operable without releasing the steering wheel and accessories (knob, fork, etc.) and the combined accelerator and braking mechanismss
Standard assisted steering
Reinforced assisted steering
Steering with backup system
Lengthened steering column
Adjusted steering wheel (Larger and/or thicker steering wheel section, reduced diameter steering wheel, etc.)
Tilted steering wheel
Vertical steering wheel
Horizontal steering wheel
Foot operated driving
Alternative adjusted steering (joy-stick, etc.)
Knob on the steering wheel
Hand orthesis on the steering wheel
With orthesis tenodese
External (left or) right-side rear-view mirror
External rear-view mirror set on the wing
Additional inside rear-view mirror permitting view of traffic
Panoramic inside rear-view mirror
Blind spot rear-view mirror
Electrically operated outside rear-view mirror(s)
Driver seat at a good viewing height and in normal distance from the steering wheel and the pedal
Driver seat adjusted to body shape
Driver seat with lateral support for good sitting stability
Driver seat with armrest
Lengthening of sliding driver's seat
Seat-belt adjustment
Harness-type seat-belt
Single operated brake
(Adjusted) hand operated brake (front wheel)
(Adjusted) foot operated brake (back wheel)
(Adjusted) accelerator handle
(Adjusted) manual transmission and manual clutch
(Adjusted) rear-view mirror(s)
(Adjusted) commands (direction indicators, braking light, …)
Seat height allowing the driver, in sitting position, to have two feet on the road at the same time
:
to the left
:
to the right
:
left
:
right
:
hand
:
foot
:
usable
:
national codes valid only for driving in the territory of the Member State which issued the licence.
Where a code applies to all categories for which the licence is issued, it may be printed under headings 9, 10 and 11;
in implementation of section 4(a) of this Annex, a space reserved for the possible entry by the host Member State of information essential for administering the licence;
a space reserved for the possible entry by the Member State which issues the licence of information essential for administering the licence or related to road safety (optional). If the information relates to one of the headings defined in this Annex, it should be preceded by the number of the heading in question.
With the specific written agreement of the holder, information which is not related to the administration of the driving licence or road safety may also be added in this space; such addition shall not alter in any way the use of the model as a driving licence;
an explanation of the numbered items which appear on pages 1 and 2 of the licence (at least items 1, 2, 3, 4 (a), 4 (b), 4 (c), 5, 10, 11 and 12)
If a Member State wishes to make the entries in a national language other than one of the following languages: Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Latvian, Lithuanian, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish or Swedish, it shall draw up a bilingual version of the licence using one of the aforementioned languages, without prejudice to the other provisions of this Annex;
a space shall be reserved on the Community model licence to allow for the possible introduction of a microchip or similar computer device.
Where the holder of a driving licence issued by a Member State in accordance with this Annex has his normal place of residence in another Member State, that Member State may enter in the licence such information as is essential for administering it, provided that it also enters this type of information in the licences which it issues and provided that there remains enough space for the purpose.
After consulting the Commission, Member States may add colours or markings, such as bar codes and national symbols, without prejudice to the other provisions of this Annex.
In the context of mutual recognition of licences, the bar code may not contain information other than what can already be read on the driving licence or which is essential to the process of issuing the licence.
Member States shall take the necessary measures to ensure that applicants for driving licences possess the knowledge and skills and exhibit the behaviour required for driving a motor vehicle. The tests introduced to this effect must consist of:
a theory test, and then
a test of skills and behaviour.
The conditions under which these tests shall be conducted are set out below.
The form chosen shall be such as to make sure that the applicant has the required knowledge of the subjects listed on points 2, 3 and 4.
Any applicant for a licence in one category who has passed a theory test for a licence in a different category may be exempt from the common provisions of points 2, 3 and 4.
Road traffic regulations:
in particular as regards road signs, markings and signals, rights of way and speed limits;
The driver:
importance of alertness and of attitude to other road users,
perception, judgement and decision-taking, especially reaction time, as well as changes in driving behaviour due to the influence of alcohol, drugs and medicinal products, state of mind and fatigue;
The road:
the most important principles concerning the observance of a safe distance between vehicles, braking distances and road holding under various weather and road conditions,
driving risk factors related to various road conditions, in particular as they change with the weather and the time of day or night,
characteristics of various types of road and the related statutory requirements;
Other road users:
specific risk factors related to the lack of experience of other road users and the most vulnerable categories of users such as children, pedestrians, cyclists and people whose mobility is reduced,
risks involved in the movement and driving of various types of vehicles and of the different fields of view of their drivers;
General rules and regulations and other matters:
rules concerning the administrative documents required for the use of vehicles,
general rules specifying how the driver must behave in the event of an accident (setting warning devices and raising the alarm) and the measures which he can take to assist road accident victims where necessary,
safety factors relating to the vehicle, the load and persons carried;
Precautions necessary when alighting from the vehicle;
Mechanical aspects with a bearing on road safety; applicants must be able to detect the most common faults, in particular in the steering, suspension and braking systems, tyres, lights and direction indicators, reflectors, rear-view mirrors, windscreen and wipers, the exhaust system, seat-belts and the audible warning device;
Vehicle safety equipment and, in particular, the use of seat-belts, head restraints and child safety equipment;
Rules regarding vehicle use in relation to the environment (appropriate use of audible warning devices, moderate fuel consumption, limitation of pollutant emissions, etc.).
Use of protective outfit such as gloves, boots, clothes and safety helmet;
Visibility of motorcycle riders for other road users;
Risk factors related to various road conditions as laid down above with additional attention to slippery parts such as drain covers, road markings such as lines and arrows, tram rails;
Mechanical aspects with a bearing on road safety as laid down above with additional attention to the emergency stop switch, the oil levels and the chain.
Rules on driving hours and rest periods as defined by Council Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85 of 20 December 1985 on the harmonisation of certain social legislation relating to road transport(2); use of the recording equipment as defined by Council Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85 of 20 December 1985 on recording equipment in road transport(3),
Rules concerning the type of transport concerned: goods or passengers;
Vehicle and transport documents required for the national and international carriage of goods and passengers;
How to behave in the event of an accident; knowledge of measures to be taken after an accident or similar occurrence, including emergency action such as evacuation of passengers and basic knowledge of first aid;
The precautions to be taken during the removal and replacement of wheels;
Rules on vehicle weights and dimensions; rules on speed limiters;
Obstruction of the field of view caused by the characteristics of their vehicles;
Reading a road map, route planning, including the use of electronic navigation systems (optional);
Safety factors relating to vehicle loading: controlling the load (stowing and fastening), difficulties with different kinds of load (e.g. liquids, hanging loads, …), loading and unloading goods and the use of loading equipment (categories C, CE, C1, C1E only);
The driver's responsibility in respect to the carriage of passengers; comfort and safety of passengers; transport of children; necessary checks before driving away; all sorts of buses should be part of the theory test (public service buses and coaches, buses with special dimensions, …) (categories D, DE, D1, D1E only).
The principles of the construction and functioning of: internal combustion engines, fluids (e.g. engine oil, coolant, washer fluid), the fuel system, the electrical system, the ignition system, the transmission system (clutch, gearbox, etc.);
Lubrication and antifreeze protection;
The principles of the construction, the fitting, correct use and care of tyres;
The principles of the types, operation, main parts, connection, use and day-to-day maintenance of brake fittings and speed governors, and use of anti-lock brakes;
The principles of the types, operation, main parts, connection, use and day-to-day maintenance of coupling systems (categories CE, DE only);
Methods of locating causes of breakdowns;
Preventive maintenance of vehicles and necessary running repairs;
The driver's responsibility in respect of the receipt, carriage and delivery of goods in accordance with the agreed conditions (categories C, CE only).
If an applicant takes the test of skills and behaviour on a vehicle with automatic transmission this shall be recorded on any licence issued on the basis of such a test. Licences with this indication shall be used only for driving vehicles with automatic transmission.
‘Vehicle with automatic transmission’ means a vehicle in which the gear ratio between the engine and the wheels can be varied by use only of the accelerator or the brakes
Category A1 motorcycle without sidecar, with a cubic capacity of at least 120 cm3, and capable of a speed of at least 90 km/h
Motorcycle without sidecar, with a cylinder capacity of at least 400 cm3, and an engine power of at least 25 kW
Motorcycle without sidecar, with a cylinder capacity of at least 600 cm3, and an engine power of at least 40 kW
A four-wheeled category B vehicle capable of a speed of at least 100 km/h;
A combination, made up of a category B test vehicle and a trailer with a maximum authorised mass of at least 1 000 kg, capable of a speed of at least 100 km/h, which does not fall within category B; the cargo compartment of the trailer shall consist of a closed box body which is at least as wide and as high as the motor vehicle; the closed box body may also be slightly less wide than the motor vehicle provided that the view to the rear is only possible by use of the external rear-view mirrors of the motor vehicle; the trailer shall be presented with a minimum of 800 kg real total mass;
A motor-powered quadricycle capable of a speed of at least 60 km/h;
A category C vehicle with a maximum authorised mass of at least 12 000 kg, a length of at least 8 m, a width of at least 2,40 m and capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h; fitted with anti-lock brakes, equipped with a gearbox having at least eight forward ratios and recording equipment as defined by Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85; the cargo compartment shall consist of a closed box body which is at least as wide and as high as the cab; the vehicle shall be presented with a minimum of 10 000 kg real total mass;
either an articulated vehicle or a combination of a category C test vehicle and a trailer of at least 7,5 m in length; both the articulated vehicle and the combination shall have a maximum authorised mass of at least 20 000 kg, a length of at least 14 m and a width of at least 2,40 m, shall be capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h, fitted with anti-lock brakes, equipped with a gearbox having at least eight forward ratios and with recording equipment as defined by Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85; the cargo compartment shall consist of a closed box body which is at least as wide and as high as the cab; both the articulated vehicle and the combination shall be presented with a minimum of 15 000 kg real total mass;
A subcategory C1 vehicle with a maximum authorised mass of at least 4 000 kg, with a length of at least 5 m and capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h; fitted with anti-lock brakes and equipped with recording equipment as defined by Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85; the cargo compartment shall consist of a closed box body which is at least as wide and as high as the cab;
A combination made up of a subcategory C1 test vehicle and a trailer with a maximum authorised mass of at least 1 250 kg; this combination shall be at least 8 m in length and capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h; the cargo compartment of the trailer shall consist of a closed box body which is at least as wide and as high as the cab; the closed box body may also be slightly less wide than the cab provided that the view to the rear is only possible by use of the external rear-view mirrors of the motor vehicle; the trailer shall be presented with a minimum of 800 kg real total mass;
A category D vehicle with a length of at least 10 m, a width of at least 2,40 m and capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h; fitted with anti-lock brakes and equipped with recording equipment as defined by Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85;
A combination made up of a category D test vehicle and a trailer with a maximum authorised mass of at least 1 250 kg, a width of at least 2,40 m and capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h; the cargo compartment of the trailer shall consist of a closed box body which is at least 2 m wide and 2 m high; the trailer shall be presented with a minimum of 800 kg real total mass;
A subcategory D1 vehicle with a maximum authorised mass of at least 4 000 kg, with a length of at least 5 m and capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h; fitted with anti-lock brakes and equipped with recording equipment as defined by Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85;
A combination made up of a subcategory D1 test vehicle and a trailer with a maximum authorised mass of at least 1 250 kg and capable of a speed of at least 80 km/h; the cargo compartment of the trailer shall consist of a closed box body which is at least 2 m wide and 2 m high; the trailer shall be presented with a minimum of 800 kg real total mass;
Testing vehicles for categories BE, C, CE, C1, C1E, D, DE, D1 and D1E which are not in conformity with the minimum criteria given above but which were in use on or before the moment of entry into force of this Directive, may still be used for a period not exceeding ten years after that date. The requirements related to the load to be carried by these vehicles, may be implemented by Member States up to ten years from the moment of entry into force of Commission Directive 2000/56/EC(4).
Applicants must demonstrate that they are capable of preparing to ride safely by satisfying the following requirements:
Adjust the protective outfit, such as gloves, boots, clothes and safety helmet;
Perform a random check on the condition of the tyres, brakes, steering, emergency stop switch (if applicable), chain, oil levels, lights, reflectors, direction indicators and audible warning device.
The special manoeuvres mentioned under points 6.2.3 to 6.2.5 have to be implemented at the latest five years after entry into force of Directive 2000/56/EC.
Applicants must perform all the following actions in normal traffic situations, in complete safety and taking all necessary precautions:
Riding away: after parking, after a stop in traffic; exiting a driveway;
Riding on straight roads; passing oncoming vehicles, including in confined spaces;
Riding round bends;
Crossroads: approaching and crossing of intersections and junctions;
Changing direction: left and right turns; changing lanes;
Approach/exit of motorways or similar (if available): joining from the acceleration lane; leaving on the deceleration lane;
Overtaking/passing: overtaking other traffic (if possible); riding alongside obstacles, e.g. parked cars; being overtaken by other traffic (if appropriate);
Special road features (if available): roundabouts; railway level crossings; tram/bus stops; pedestrian crossings; riding up-/downhill on long slopes;
Taking the necessary precautions when getting off the vehicle.
Applicants must demonstrate that they are capable of preparing to drive safely by satisfying the following requirements:
Adjusting the seat as necessary to obtain a correct seated position;
Adjusting rear-view mirrors, seat belts and head restraints if available;
Checking that the doors are closed;
Performing a random check on the condition of the tyres, steering, brakes, fluids (e.g. engine oil, coolant, washer fluid), lights, reflectors, direction indicators and audible warning device;
Checking the safety factors relating to vehicle loading: body, sheets, cargo doors, cabin locking, way of loading, securing load (category BE only);
Checking the coupling mechanism and the brake and electrical connections (category BE only).
A selection of the following manoeuvres shall be tested (at least two manoeuvres for the four points, including one in reverse gear):
Reversing in a straight line or reversing right or left round a corner while keeping within the correct traffic lane;
Turning the vehicle to face the opposite way, using forward and reverse gears;
Parking the vehicle and leaving a parking space (parallel, oblique or right-angle, forwards or in reverse, on the flat, uphill or downhill);
Braking accurately to a stop; however, performing an emergency stop is optional.
Applicants must perform all the following actions in normal traffic situations, in complete safety and taking all necessary precautions:
Driving away: after parking, after a stop in traffic; exiting a driveway;
Driving on straight roads; passing oncoming vehicles, including in confined spaces;
Driving round bends;
Crossroads: approaching and crossing of intersections and junctions;
Changing direction: left and right turns; changing lanes;
Approach/exit of motorways or similar (if available): joining from the acceleration lane; leaving on the deceleration lane;
Overtaking/passing: overtaking other traffic (if possible); driving alongside obstacles, e.g. parked cars; being overtaken by other traffic (if appropriate);
Special road features (if available): roundabouts; railway level crossings; tram/bus stops; pedestrian crossings; driving up-/downhill on long slopes;
Taking the necessary precautions when alighting from the vehicle.
Applicants must demonstrate that they are capable of preparing to drive safely by satisfying the following requirements:
Adjusting the seat as necessary to obtain a correct seated position;
Adjusting rear-view mirrors, seat belts and head restraints if available;
Random checks on the condition of the tyres, steering, brakes, lights, reflectors, direction indicators and audible warning device;
Checking the power-assisted braking and steering systems; checking the condition of the wheels, wheelnuts, mudguards, windscreen, windows and wipers, fluids (e.g. engine oil, coolant, washer fluid); checking and using the instrument panel including the recording equipment as defined in Regulation (EEC) No 3821/85;
Checking the air pressure, air tanks and the suspension;
Checking the safety factors relating to vehicle loading: body, sheets, cargo doors, loading mechanism (if available), cabin locking (if available), way of loading, securing load (categories C, CE, C1, C1E only);
Checking the coupling mechanism and the brake and electrical connections (categories CE, C1E, DE, D1E only);
Being capable of taking special vehicle safety measures; controlling the body, service doors, emergency exits, first aid equipment, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment (categories D, DE, D1, D1E only);
Reading a road map, route planning, including the use of electronic navigation systems (optional).
Applicants must perform all the following actions in normal traffic situations, in complete safety and taking all necessary precautions:
Driving away: after parking, after a stop in traffic; exiting a driveway;
Driving on straight roads; passing oncoming vehicles, including in confined spaces;
Driving round bends;
Crossroads: approaching and crossing of intersections and junctions;
Changing direction: left and right turns; changing lanes;
Approach/exit of motorways or similar (if available): joining from the acceleration lane; leaving on the deceleration lane;
Overtaking/passing: overtaking other traffic (if possible); driving alongside obstacles, e.g. parked cars; being overtaken by other traffic (if appropriate);
Special road features (if available): roundabouts; railway level crossings; tram/bus stops; pedestrian crossings; driving up-/downhill on long slopes;
Taking the necessary precautions when alighting from the vehicle.
Driving examiners must be trained to assess correctly the applicants' ability to drive safely. The work of driving examiners must be monitored and supervised, by a body authorised by the Member State, to ensure correct and consistent application of fault assessment in accordance with the standards laid down in this Annex.
Controlling the vehicle; taking into account: proper use of safety belts, rear-view mirrors, head restraints; seat; proper use of lights and other equipment; proper use of clutch, gearbox, accelerator, braking systems (including third braking system, if available), steering; controlling the vehicle under different circumstances, at different speeds; steadiness on the road; the weight and dimensions and characteristics of the vehicle; the weight and type of load (categories BE, C, CE, C1, C1E, DE, D1E only); the comfort of the passengers (categories D, DE, D1, D1E only) (no fast acceleration, smoothly driving and no hard braking);
Driving economically and in an environmentally friendly way, taking into account the revolutions per minute, changing gears, braking and accelerating (categories BE, C, CE, C1, C1E, D, DE, D1, D1E only);
Observation: all-round observation; proper use of mirrors; far, middle, near distance vision;
Priority/giving way: priority at crossroads, intersections and junctions; giving way at other occasions (e.g. changing direction, changing lanes, special manoeuvres);
Correct position on the road: proper position on the road, in lanes, on roundabouts, round bends, suitable for the type and the characteristics of the vehicle; pre-positioning;
Keeping distance: keeping adequate distance to the front and the side; keeping adequate distance from other road users;
Speed: not exceeding the maximum allowed speed; adapting speed to weather/traffic conditions and where appropriate up to national speed limits; driving at such a speed that stopping within distance of the visible and free road is possible; adapting speed to general speed of same kind of road users;
Traffic lights, road signs and other indications: acting correctly at traffic lights; obeying instructions from traffic controllers; acting correctly at road signs (prohibitions or commands); take appropriate action at road markings;
Signalling: give signals where necessary, correctly and properly timed; indicating directions correctly; taking appropriate action with regard to all signals made by other road users;
Braking and stopping: decelerating in time, braking or stopping according to circumstances; anticipation; using the various braking systems (only for categories C, CE, D, DE); using speed reduction systems other than the brakes (only for categories C, CE, D, DE).
The length of the test and the distance travelled must be sufficient to assess the skills and behaviour laid down in paragraph B of this Annex. In no circumstances should the time spent driving on the road be less than 25 minutes for categories A, A1, A2, B, B1 and BE and 45 minutes for the other categories. This does not include the reception of the applicant, the preparation of the vehicle, the technical check of the vehicle with a bearing on road safety, the special manoeuvres and the announcement of the outcome of the practical test.
The part of the test to assess the special manoeuvres may be conducted on a special testing ground. Wherever practicable, the part of the test to assess behaviour in traffic should be conducted on roads outside built-up areas, expressways and motorways (or similar), as well as on all kinds of urban streets (residential areas, 30 and 50 km/h areas, urban expressways) which should represent the various types of difficulty likely to be encountered by drivers. It is also desirable for the test to take place in various traffic density conditions. The time spent driving on the road should be used in an optimal way to assess the applicant in all the various traffic areas that can be encountered, with a special emphasis on changing between these areas.
Drivers of all power-driven vehicles must at any moment have the knowledge, skills and behaviour described under points 1 to 9, with a view to be able to:
Recognise traffic dangers and assess their seriousness,
Have sufficient command of their vehicle not to create dangerous situations and to react appropriately should such situations occur,
Comply with road traffic regulations, and in particular those intended to prevent road accidents and to maintain the flow of traffic,
Detect any major technical faults in their vehicles, in particular those posing a safety hazard, and have them remedied in an appropriate fashion,
Take account of all the factors affecting driving behaviour (e.g. alcohol, fatigue, poor eyesight, etc.) so as to retain full use of the faculties needed to drive safely,
Help ensure the safety of all road users, and in particular of the weakest and most exposed by showing due respect for others.
Member States may implement the appropriate measures to ensure that drivers who have lost the knowledge, skills and behaviour as described under points 1 to 9 can recover this knowledge and these skills and will continue to exhibit such behaviour required for driving a motor vehicle.
Group 1:
drivers of vehicles of categories A, A1, A2, AM, B, B1 and BE.
Group 2:
drivers of vehicles of categories C, CE, C1, C1E, D, DE, D1 and D1E.
National legislation may provide for the provisions set out in this Annex for Group 2 drivers to apply to drivers of Category B vehicles using their driving licence for professional purposes (taxis, ambulances, etc.).
Applicants shall be required to undergo a medical examination if it becomes apparent, when the necessary formalities are being completed or during the tests which they have to undergo prior to obtaining a driving licence, that they have one or more of the medical disabilities mentioned in this Annex.
Applicants shall undergo medical examinations before a driving licence is first issued to them and thereafter drivers shall be checked in accordance with the national system in place in the Member State of normal residence whenever their driving licence is renewed
For group 1 drivers, licensing may be considered in ‘ exceptional cases ’ where the visual field standard or visual acuity standard cannot be met; in such cases the driver should undergo examination by a competent medical authority to demonstrate that there is no other impairment of visual function, including glare, contrast sensitivity and twilight vision. The driver or applicant should also be subject to a positive practical test conducted by a competent authority.
Moreover, the horizontal visual field should be at least 120 degrees, the extension should be at least 50 degrees left and right and 20 degrees up and down. No defects should be present within a radius of the central 20 degrees.
When a progressive eye disease is detected or declared, driving licences may be issued or renewed subject to the applicant undergoing regular examination by a competent medical authority.
Moreover, the horizontal visual field with both eyes should be at least 160 degrees, the extension should be at least 70 degrees left and right and 30 degrees up and down. No defects should be present within a radius of the central 30 degrees.
Driving licences shall not be issued to or renewed for applicants or drivers suffering from impaired contrast sensitivity or from diplopia.
After a substantial loss of vision in one eye, there should be an appropriate adaptation period (for example six months) during which the subject is not allowed to drive. After this period, driving is only allowed after a favourable opinion from vision and driving experts.]
Textual Amendments
Where the disability is static, driving licences may be issued or renewed without the applicant being subject to regular medical examination.
no severe hypoglycaemic events have occurred in the previous 12 months,
the driver has full hypoglycaemic awareness,
the driver must show adequate control of the condition by regular blood glucose monitoring, at least twice daily and at times relevant to driving,
the driver must demonstrate an understanding of the risks of hypoglycaemia,
there are no other debarring complications of diabetes.
Moreover, in these cases, such licences should be issued subject to the opinion of a competent medical authority and to regular medical review, undertaken at intervals of not more than three years.
Neurological disturbances associated with diseases or surgical intervention affecting the central or peripheral nervous system, which lead to sensory or motor deficiencies and affect balance and coordination, must accordingly be taken into account in relation to their functional effects and the risks of progression. In such cases, the issue or renewal of the licence may be subject to periodic assessment in the event of risk of deterioration.
Epilepsy is defined as having had two or more epileptic seizures, less than five years apart. A provoked epileptic seizure is defined as a seizure which has a recognisable causative factor that is avoidable.
A person who has an initial or isolated seizure or loss of consciousness should be advised not to drive. A specialist report is required, stating the period of driving prohibition and the requested follow-up.
It is extremely important that the person’s specific epilepsy syndrome and seizure type are identified so that a proper evaluation of the person’s driving safety can be undertaken (including the risk of further seizures) and the appropriate therapy instituted. This should be done by a neurologist.
If the person has epilepsy, the criteria for an unconditional licence are not met. Notification should be given to the licensing authority.
A person with a structural intra-cerebral lesion who has increased risk of seizures should not be able to drive vehicles of group 2 until the epilepsy risk has fallen to at least 2 % per annum. The assessment should be, if appropriate, in accordance with other relevant sections of Annex III (e.g. in the case of alcohol).
Certain disorders (e.g. arterio-venous malformation or intra-cerebral haemorrhage) entail an increased risk of seizures, even if seizures have not yet occurred. In such a situation an assessment should be carried out by a competent medical authority; the risk of having a seizure should be 2 % per annum or less to allow licensing.]
severe mental disturbance, whether congenital or due to disease, trauma or neurosurgical operations,
severe mental retardation,
severe behavioural problems due to ageing; or personality defects leading to seriously impaired judgment, behaviour or adaptability,
unless their application is supported by authorised medical opinion and, if necessary, subject to regular medical check-ups.
After a proven period of abstinence and subject to authorised medical opinion and regular medical check-ups, driving licences may be issued to, or renewed for, applicant or drivers who have in the past been dependent on alcohol.
Driving licences shall not be issued to or renewed for applicants or drivers who are dependent on psychotropic substances or who are not dependent on such substances but regularly abuse them, whatever category of licence is requested.
Regular use:
theory of driving behaviour,
hazard perception and accident avoidance,
the syllabus underpinning driving test standards,
the requirements of the driving test,
relevant road and traffic legislation, including relevant EU and national legislation and interpretative guidelines,
assessment theory and techniques,
defensive driving.
ability to observe accurately, monitor, and evaluate overall candidate performance, in particular:
correct and comprehensive recognition of dangerous situations,
accurate determination of cause and likely effect of such situations,
achievement of competence and recognition of errors,
uniformity and consistency in assessment,
assimilate information quickly and extract key points,
look ahead, identify potential problems, and develop strategies to deal with them,
provide timely and constructive feedback.
A person authorised to conduct a practical test for a category of driving licence must be able to drive to a consistently high standard that type of motor vehicle.
establish and communicate what the candidate can expect during the test,
communicate clearly, choosing content, style and language to suit the audience and context and deal with enquiries from candidates,
provide clear feedback about the test result,
treat candidates with respect and indiscriminately.
knowledge about vehicle technique such as steering, tyres, brakes, lights, specially for motorcycles and heavy vehicles,
loading safety,
knowledge about vehicle physics such as speed, friction, dynamics, energy.
must have held a category B licence for at least 3 years;
must be at least 23 years old;
must have successfully completed the initial qualification provided for in point 3 of this Annex and subsequently followed the quality assurance and the periodic training arrangements as provided for in point 4 of this Annex;
must have terminated a vocational education that leads at least to a completion of level 3 as defined by Council Decision 85/368/EEC of 16 July 1985 on the comparability of vocational training qualifications between the Member States of the European Community(5);
may not be active as a commercial driving instructor in a driving school simultaneously.
must hold a driving licence in the category concerned or possess equivalent knowledge through adequate professional qualification;
must have successfully completed the initial qualification provided for in point 3 of this Annex and subsequently followed the quality assurance and the periodic training arrangements as provided for in point 4 of this Annex;
must have been a qualified category B driving examiner for at least 3 years; this period may be waived provided that the examiner in question can provide evidence of:
at least 5 years of driving in the category concerned, or,
a theoretical and practical assessment of driving ability of a standard higher than that needed to obtain a driving licence thus making that requirement unnecessary,
must have completed a vocational education that leads at least to a termination of the level 3 as defined by Decision 85/368/EEC;
may not be active as a commercial driving instructor in a driving school simultaneously.
a minimum regular periodic training of four days in total per period of two years in order to:
maintain and refresh the necessary knowledge and examining skills,
to develop new competences that have become essential for the exercise of their profession,
ensure that an examiner continues to conduct tests to a fair and uniform standard,
a minimum periodic training of at least five days in total per period of five years,
in order to develop and maintain the necessary practical driving skills.
approve and supervise the training provided for in Article 7(1)(d) or,
organise the test of skills and behaviour provided for in Article 7(1)(d).
at least 7 hours.
The driver training shall cover the knowledge, skills and behaviour as described in points 2 and 7 of Annex II. Particular attention shall be paid to:
vehicle movement dynamics, safety criteria, tractor vehicle and trailer (coupling mechanism), correct loading and safety fittings;
A practical component shall include the following exercises: acceleration, deceleration, reversing, braking, stopping distance, lane-changing, braking/evasive action, trailer swing, uncoupling from and re-coupling a trailer to its motor vehicle, parking;
Each training participant has to perform the practical component and shall demonstrate its skills and behaviour on public roads,
Vehicle combinations used for the training shall fall within the category of driving licence participants have applied for.
The length of the test and the distance travelled must be sufficient to assess the skills and behaviour laid down in point 3.
approve and supervise the training provided for in Article 7(1)(c) or,
organise the test of skills and behaviour provided for in Article 7(1)(c).
at least 7 hours.
The driver training shall contain all aspects covered in point 6 of Annex II.
Each participant has to perform the practical components of the training and shall demonstrate its skills and behaviour on public roads.
Motorcycles used for the training shall fall within the category of driving licence participants have applied for.
The length of the test and the distance travelled must be sufficient to assess the skills and behaviour laid down in point 3 of this Annex.
a Directive 91/439/EEC was also amended by the following act which has not been repealed: 1994 Act of accession. | |
Council Directive 91/439/EECa | (OJ L 237, 24.8.1991, p. 1) |
Council Directive 94/72/EC | (OJ L 337, 24.12.1994, p. 86) |
Council Directive 96/47/EC | (OJ L 235, 17.9.1996, p. 1) |
Council Directive 97/26/EC | (OJ L 150, 7.6.1997, p. 41) |
Commission Directive 2000/56/EC | (OJ L 237, 21.9.2000, p. 45) |
Directive 2003/59/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council, only Article 10, paragraph 2 | (OJ L 226, 10.9.2003, p. 4) |
Regulation (EC) No 1882/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council, only Annex II, point 24 | (OJ L 284, 31.10.2003, p. 1) |
Directive | Deadline for transposition | Date of application |
---|---|---|
Directive 91/439/EEC | 1st July 1994 | 1st July 1996 |
Directive 94/72/EC | - | 1st January1995 |
Decision 96/427/EC | - | 16 July 1996 |
Directive 96/47/EC | 1st July 1996 | >1st July 1996 |
Directive 97/26/EC | 1st January 1998 | 1st January 1998 |
Directive 2000/56/EC | 30 September 2003 | 30 September 2003, 30 September 2008 (Annex II, point 6.2.5) and 30 September 2013 (Annex II point 5.2) |
Directive 2003/59/EC | 10 September 2006 | 10 September 2008 (passenger transport) and 10 September 2009 (goods transport) |
Directive 91/439/EEC | This Directive |
---|---|
Article 1(1), first sentence | Article 1(1) first sentence |
Article 1(1), second sentence | — |
- | Article 1(2) |
Article 1(2) | Article 2(1) |
- | Article 2(2) |
Article 1(3) | - |
Article 2(1) | Article 1(1), second sentence |
Article 2(2) | Article 3(1) |
Article 3(2) | |
Article 3(3) | |
Article 2(3) | - |
Article 2(4) | - |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, introductory words | Article 4(1), first sentence |
- | Article 4(2), first indent |
- | Article 4(2), second indent |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, first indent | Article 4(3), first indent |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, second indent | Article 4(4)(b), first subparagraph |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, third indent | Article 4(4)(b), second subparagraph |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, fourth indent | Article 4(4)(c) |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, fifth indent | Article 4(4)(f) |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, sixth indent | Article 4(4)(g) |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, seventh indent | Article 4(4)(j) |
Article 3(1), first subparagraph, eighth indent | Article 4(4)(k) |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, introductory words | - |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, first indent | Article 4(3)(a) |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, second indent | Article 4(4)(a) |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, third indent | Article 4(4)(d) |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, fourth indent | Article 4(4)(e) |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, fifth indent | Article 4(4)(h) |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, sixth indent, introductory words | Article 4(4)(i) |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, sixth indent, first sub-indent | - |
Article 3(2), first subparagraph, sixth indent, second sub-indent | - |
Article 3(3), introductory words | - |
Article 3(3), first indent | Article 4(1), third sentence |
Article 3(3), second indent, first subparagraph | Article 4(3), second indent |
Article 3(3), second indent, second subparagraph | - |
Article 3(3), third indent | Article 4(3), first indent |
Article 3(3), fourth indent | Article 4(4), first indent |
Article 3(3), fifth indent | Article 4(4), second indent |
- | Article 4(3) |
Article 3(4) | - |
Article 3(5) | - |
Article 3(6) | Article 4(5), first sentence |
- | Article 4(5), second sentence |
Article 4 | Article 5 |
Article 5(1) | Article 6(1) |
Article 5(1)(a) | Article 6(1)(a) |
Article 5(1)(b) | Article 6(1)(b) |
Article 5(2), introductory words | Article 6(2), introductory words |
Article 5(2)(a) | Article 6(2)(a) |
Article 5(2)(b) | Article 6(2)(b) |
- | Article 6(2)(c) |
- | Article 6(2)(d) |
- | Article 6(2)(e) |
- | Article 6(2)(f) |
Article 5(3) | - |
Article 5(4) | Article 6(4) |
Article 6(1), introductory words | Article 4(1), second sentence |
Article 6(1)(a), first indent | Article 4(3)(a), third indent |
Article 6(1)(a), second indent | Article 4(4)(a), second indent |
Article 6(1)(b), first indent | Article 4(3)(b), second indent |
Article 4(3)(c), second indent | |
Article 6(1)(b), second indent first alternative | Article 4(4)(b), fifth subparagraph |
Article 6(1)(b), second indent second alternative | Article 4(4)(c), second indent |
Article 6(1)(b), third indent first and second alternative | Article 4(4)(g), second indent |
Article 6(1)(b), third indent third and fourth alternative | Article 4(4)(e), third indent |
Article 6(1)(c), first indent first and second alternative | Article 4(4)(k), second indent |
Article 6(1)(c), first indent third and fourth alternative | Article 4(4)(i), second indent |
Article 6(2) | Article 4(6), first subparagraph |
- | Article 4(6), second subparagraph |
Article 6(3) | Article 4(6), third and fourth subparagraphs |
Article 7(1), introductory words | Article 7(1), introductory words |
Article 7(1)(a) | Article 7(1)(a) |
- | Article 7(1)(b) |
- | Article 7(1)(c) |
- | Article 7(1)(d) |
Article 7(1)(b) | Article 7(1)(e) |
Article 7(2) | - |
Article 7(3) | - |
- | Article 7(2) |
- | Article 7(3) |
Article 7(4) | Article 7(4) |
Article 7(5) | Article 7(5)(a) |
- | Article 7(5)(b) |
- | Article 7(5)(c) |
- | Article 7(5)(d) |
Article 7 a(1) | - |
Article 7 a(2) | Article 8 |
Article 7 b | Article 9 |
- | Article 10 |
Article 8 | Article 11 |
Article 9 | Article 12 |
Article 10 | Article 13(1) |
- | Article 13(2) |
Article 11 | Article 14 |
Article 12(1) | - |
Article 12(2) | - |
Article 12(3) | Article 15 |
- | Article 16 |
Article 13 | Article 17, first subparagraph |
- | Article 17, second subparagraph |
- | Article 18 |
Article 14 | Article 19 |
Annex I | - |
Annex Ia | Annex I |
Annex II | Annex II |
Annex III | Annex III |
- | Annex IV |
- | Annex V |
- | Annex VI |
Note: a pictogram and a line for category AM will be added.U.K.
Note: the term ‘A2’ will be added to the section on motorcycle categories.U.K.
OJ L 370, 31.12.1985, p. 1. Regulation as repealed by Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 102, 11.4.2006, p. 1).
OJ L 370, 31.12.1985, p. 8. Regulation as last amended by Regulation (EC) No 561/2006.
Commission Directive 2000/56/EC of 14 September 2000 amending Council Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences (OJ L 237, 21.9.2000, p. 45).
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