The Digital Driver’s License Coming Soon to Your Smartphone: What You Need to Know

The European Parliament has recently approved the introduction of a digital driver’s license. This document, which will be accessible directly on your smartphone, marks a major step forward in simplifying administrative processes and improving road safety.

📲 A Fully Digital License by 2030

The paper or card-format license is nearing the end of its life. By 2030, all EU Member States will be required to implement this reform.
In Belgium, the project is already part of the government agreement — a clear sign that change is underway.

In practice, it will be possible to renew your license remotely, without having to visit the local administration.

🔐 A Tool Connected to Road Safety

The digital license will go far beyond a simple dematerialized version. It will be linked to a centralized European database, enabling real-time verification of driving rights.

As Benoît Godart, spokesperson for Vias, explained, a driver who has been disqualified from driving could be physically prevented from starting their vehicle, thanks to automatic checks.

🧑‍🎓 A Reform That Also Affects Young and Senior Drivers

The reform also provides for:

• Partial harmonization of young driver training, including the potential introduction of accompanied driving schemes;

• A maximum license validity period of 10 years;

• The possible introduction of periodic medical checks, especially for senior drivers. In Belgium, this measure remains optional for now.

⚖️ My Perspective as a Legal Practitioner

This reform raises several interesting legal questions:

• How will personal data be protected within interconnected databases?

• What will be the legal status of the digital license in case of dispute or inspection?

• How can we ensure that automatic vehicle blocking respects fundamental rights, especially regarding the right to a defence?

I will closely monitor the transposition of this directive into Belgian law, as it will have real-life implications for drivers, administrative procedures, and driving-related litigation.

If you are affected by a driving disqualification, or if you would like to better understand the legal implications of this reform, feel free to reach out — I’m available to assist you.