The Impact of the European Commission Directive on Obtaining Driver’s Licenses in Estonia.

Starting from 2029, new rules regarding the acquisition of limited driving rights licenses will come into effect in Estonia. According to the European Commission directive, permission to drive category B vehicles will only be granted from the age of 17. This reform has significant implications for young drivers and driving schools, while also opening new opportunities within European Union standards.

Before the new rules, 16-year-olds could start practical driving training under the supervision of a mentor by obtaining a special permit. This practice allowed young people to gain necessary driving experience before reaching adulthood. However, the European Commission directive introduces stricter restrictions, motivated by the goal of enhancing road safety and unifying requirements among member states.

Although Estonia advocated for maintaining the age limit at 16 and proposed making it a standard across all European countries, this proposal was rejected. As noted by Margus Tähepõld, Head of the Transport and Traffic Department of the Ministry of Climate, the largest member states of the European Union were not ready to support such an approach, indicating their cautiousness and country-specific priorities.

The new amendment has sparked mixed feelings among Estonian youth. Supporters of the previous approach highlight its practical benefits: the earlier you begin driving training, the more opportunities you have to develop skills before obtaining a full driver’s license. Nevertheless, according to the Transport Department, around 300 young people annually acquire licenses with limited driving rights, making the scope of the change relatively small.

At the same time, the directive offers positive aspects. In the future, drivers with limited driving rights will be able to travel with a mentor across the entire territory of the European Union, something that was previously impossible. Additionally, the obligation to take additional exams at the age of 18 to acquire a full driver’s license will be removed, simplifying the process for many young drivers.

Notable changes will also occur in the driving school education system. Starting from 2029, transitioning from an automatic transmission vehicle to a manual one will become easier, as completing just a seven-hour additional driving course will suffice. Previously, this transition required retaking a driving test, which served as an additional obstacle for drivers.

Innovative approaches are also reflected in the introduction of a digital driver’s license. The new directive envisions the possibility of storing digital licenses on smartphones or other devices. This is a step towards modernization and convenience, but physical licenses will remain available for those who prefer a traditional document or need it for travel in countries that do not yet recognize digital driver’s licenses.

Despite raising the age threshold for obtaining limited driving rights, Estonia will retain the possibility for 16-year-olds to begin practical training under the guidance of a mentor. This is a crucial part of the reform, allowing young people to safely learn driving skills while adhering to new standards. Mentors participating in this program must obtain the appropriate permit from the Transport Department, adding a layer of control and responsibility.

Thus, the new rules set to take effect in 2029 represent a step toward unifying EU standards, enhancing road safety, and introducing technological innovations. At the same time, they provide a balanced approach that considers the interests of both young drivers and driving schools. However, they also require adaptation from Estonian society and possibly a reassessment of the approach to driver education as a whole.