Fifteen-year-olds behind the wheel: ETSC warns of road safety risks under new EU licence rules

ETSC has written to EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas to raise urgent concerns over new driving licence rules that could allow 15-year-olds to drive cars, vans and SUVs weighing up to 2.5 tonnes on public roads.

Under the recently adopted legislation, young drivers will be permitted to drive vehicles limited to 45 km/h under a new B1 licence category. While the standard minimum age is set at 16, Member States can apply for a derogation to lower the age to 15. ETSC argues that this move poses unacceptable safety risks to both young drivers and vulnerable road users, and calls into question the adequacy of the vehicle restrictions imposed.

Drawing on evidence from Sweden, where 15-year-olds are currently allowed to drive modified cars known as A-traktors, ETSC pointed to widespread tampering with speed limiters and serious enforcement challenges. The organisation highlighted that the EU’s new B1 rules allow vehicles with space for up to seven additional passengers compared to Swedish A-traktors which only allow a driver and front passenger seat — raising further concerns about the potential consequences of crashes involving young, inexperienced drivers.

In the letter, ETSC urges the Commission to commit to tracking and publishing data on crashes involving young B1 licence holders, including fatal and serious injury collisions. The organisation also asks the Commission to clearly set out the procedure and evaluation criteria it will apply when Member States seek permission to lower the minimum driving age to 15.

With Sweden and Finland expected to make such requests soon, ETSC stressed the need for transparency in the process, including the publication of submitted information, consultation with independent safety experts, and the clear justification of any decisions made. 

ETSC remains firmly opposed to the introduction of this category for either 15- or 16-year-olds, arguing that it is a step backward for road safety in the EU.