Key highlights:

- EU countries to share info on driving bans for serious traffic offences

- New rules cover drunk driving, fatal crashes, and extreme speeding

- Aim: Ensure driving bans apply EU-wide, not just where offence occurred

The European Parliament and the Polish Presidency of the Council have struck a provisional deal on new EU-wide rules targeting reckless drivers—especially those who commit offences while abroad.

Right now, if a driver loses their licence in a different EU country from where it was issued, the ban usually only applies in the country where the offence happened. That loophole has allowed some dangerous drivers to continue driving in other parts of the EU with little consequence.

Under the new agreement, any decision to withdraw, suspend, or restrict a driver’s licence must be shared with the country that issued it. This means the penalty will follow the driver across all EU member states.

What offences will trigger EU-wide driving bans?

The new rules will apply to:

- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

- Causing a fatal traffic accident

- Excessive speeding (e.g., going 50 km/h over the speed limit)

Authorities will be required to notify each other without delay when such sanctions are issued. Importantly, drivers must be informed within 20 working days about the decision and the process to appeal it.

MEPs also pushed through a clause requiring the European Commission to review the rules five years after they take effect. That review will consider whether more types of offences should be included and whether faster information sharing is needed.

EP rapporteur Matteo Ricci (S&D, IT) said: “This Directive is a crucial step in ensuring better road safety. By introducing clearer and more timely criteria for suspending driving privileges because of serious violations, this measure protects not only responsible drivers but the entire community. A more effective system of control and sanction will prevent accidents and save lives.”