New Rules for Driving Licences adopted
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On 21 October, the European Parliament formally adopted the agreement with the Council on new driving licences rules. Samaritan International has successfully advocated for simplified requirements for the driving of heavy ambulances. Following the agreement, the driving of emergency vehicles, including ambulances and civil protection vehicles, weighing up to 5.000 kg will be possible with a B driving licence (pending national authorisation).
Within the next 3 years Member States have to transcribe the adopted Directive into national law. The Directive enables them to authorise the driving of heavy ambulances (up to 5.000kg) with a B licence and they are also encouraged to mutually recognise these national measures in order to ensure cross-border traffic.
The European Parliament entered the negotiations with an even stronger position, but the Council succeeded in making national authorisations necessary. The member organisations of Samaritan International will continue the advocacy work on the national level.
It is a crucial step forward for civil society organisations in the field of social services and civil protection, as the ambulances and other emergency vehicles often exceed 3.5t and are frequently driven by volunteers. To enable the volunteer engagement at a low threshold, it is important that only a regular B licence is required, where it has no negative effects on safety.
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