Major Overhaul of Ukraine's Road Traffic Legislation
A sweeping reform of Ukraine's road traffic laws is in the works. Draft law No. 15200 aims to align vehicle categories with EU standards, adjust the minimum age for drivers, legalize digital documents, and introduce new rules for revoking and reinstating driving privileges.
Under the proposed legislation, a new category AM will be introduced for mopeds with a top speed of 45 km/h. Additionally, category A2 will cover motorcycles with power output up to 35 kW. Notably, individuals as young as 15 will be eligible for licenses to operate mopeds and light two-wheelers. For passenger cars (categories B and BE), the minimum age could drop to 17, but driving at 17 will only be permitted when accompanied by a driver with at least two years of experience. Category A motorcycles will become accessible at age 20 for those with two years of experience on an A2 license, while a direct-access route to category A motorcycles will be available from age 24.
Licenses for buses (categories D and DE) are planned to be issued from age 24. However, with professional training, bus licenses may be granted starting at age 21.
Digital Documents and New Regulations
Under the new rules, electronic driver's licenses and vehicle registration certificates in the Diia app will carry the same legal weight as their paper counterparts. 'Digital documents can be used without the need for a physical copy,' the document states. The Cabinet of Ministers will set data protection standards for this area.
A license will be considered invalid if lost, exchanged, or expired. Revocation will occur if a driver fails to pick up their completed document from an MVS service center within one year. To regain driving privileges after a court-ordered suspension, individuals must undergo an extraordinary medical examination and pass both theoretical and practical driving tests. 'To restore their driving right, a person will have to undergo an unscheduled medical check and pass theoretical and practical exams,' the draft law specifies. If reinstatement happens a year or more later, the driver must retake exams for the highest category listed on their license.
Overall, draft law No. 15200 is designed to significantly modernize Ukraine's road traffic legislation, bringing it in line with current European standards.
This reform represents a crucial step in Ukraine's integration with European norms and aims to enhance road safety. By harmonizing vehicle categories and introducing digital documentation, the process of obtaining a driver's license could become more streamlined, reducing bureaucratic hurdles. These changes are expected to boost population mobility and support the development of the country's transportation infrastructure.
As Ukraine moves forward with these significant reforms, it's essential to understand the implications of the proposed changes in driver's license categories. The adjustments not only aim to modernize traffic regulations but also align with European standards, reflecting a broader trend in road safety and driver education. For a detailed overview of the new categories and their potential impact on Ukrainian drivers, check out this article on key changes in driver’s licenses.