8 Member States not complying with Driving Test Standards

Publication date: 31 March 2004

The European Commission has sent reasoned opinions to Belgium, Greece, Spain, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, Austria and Portugal for failure to respect EU Directive (2000/56/EC of 14 September 2000) on the setting of new minimum standards for theory and practical driving tests.

This Directive adapts the minimum standards to scientific and technological progress in the field. It aims at further harmonising driving tests and bringing the testing requirements into line with the demands of road safety by increasing the minimum examination level.

Member States had to adopt the necessary legislation before 30 September 2003. They now have two months to reply to the reasoned opinions - the last step for the Commission before referring the infringement to the Court of Justice.