Cyprus to Update Driving Licence Rules Under New EU Directive

Cyprus is preparing to update its driving licence legislation to bring it into line with a new EU directive introducing significant changes for drivers across the European Union.

One of the biggest changes will be the introduction of digital driving licences, which will eventually be stored on the EU Digital Identity Wallet. These digital licences are intended to make administrative procedures easier, including licence renewals, replacements and exchanging licences when moving between EU countries.

Digital licences will eventually become the standard across the EU following a transitional period. However, drivers will still be able to request a physical driving licence, particularly if they do not have a smartphone or prefer to carry a physical document.

17-year-olds will be able to drive with supervision

The directive also introduces an EU-wide accompanied driving scheme for 17-year-olds holding a Category B car licence.

The exact system Cyprus will adopt has not yet been decided. The Road Transport Department (RTD) is currently considering which model would be most appropriate.

Two-year probationary period for new drivers

New drivers will also be subject to a minimum two-year probationary period. During this period, they will face stricter rules and potentially tougher penalties for certain offences.

The measure is aimed at improving road safety, particularly among younger drivers. Although drivers under 30 account for only around 8% of all car drivers, they are involved in approximately two out of every five fatal collisions.

Greater checks on drivers’ fitness

The new rules will also introduce more systematic checks on whether drivers remain physically and mentally fit to drive.

At a minimum, drivers will have to complete a self-assessment of their fitness to drive before a licence is issued and again when it is renewed. Cyprus may also introduce additional assessment procedures of its own.

Driving bans will be recognised across the EU

Another important change concerns driving disqualifications.

Under the new system, serious driving offences resulting in a ban or disqualification will be recognised across the EU. This means that drivers should no longer be able to avoid the consequences of a serious offence simply because it was committed in another member state.

When will the changes take effect?

The timetable is already established.

By November 2028, EU member states must have introduced the basic legislation needed to implement the new rules.

The 17-year-old accompanied-driving scheme will also begin from November 2028.

Most of the other provisions, including the wider changes to driving licences and probationary periods, will come into force from November 2029.

In Cyprus, the Road Transport Department is currently drafting the necessary legislation. This will be followed by a public consultation before the new rules are finalised.

For Cyprus drivers, the changes could therefore represent one of the most significant overhauls of driving licence rules in many years, particularly with the move towards digital licences and greater EU-wide recognition of driving offences.