Changes to the regulations on the issuance of driver's licenses have come into force in Ukraine. Now, the validity period of the document will depend directly on the license category: for most drivers, it will be 15 years, while for professional drivers, it will be 5 years. Previously issued licenses remain legally valid and do not require immediate replacement.
European integration and road safety
Ukrainian Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko confirmed that the main goal of the reform is to harmonize national legislation with European standards. The new rules are expected to become a powerful tool for improving road safety.
A key element of the innovation will be the mandatory regular confirmation of health status. As the head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs noted, the resumption of mandatory medical examinations when exchanging licenses will establish the practice of periodic health checks for drivers.
"After the resumption of mandatory medical examinations when exchanging a driver's license, regular confirmation (every 15 years) of health status will become one of the important elements of access to driving motor vehicles. This corresponds to European practice and will contribute to improving road safety," Klymenko stated.
Special requirements for professionals
Legislators have taken into account the specifics of various driver categories. Special attention has been paid to those engaged in commercial freight and passenger transport. Due to the higher level of responsibility and risks associated with operating large vehicles, a shorter validity period has been established for this category of drivers.
Professional drivers of trucks and passenger buses will be required to undergo medical examinations and exchange their licenses every 5 years. This will allow for more frequent monitoring of the physical condition of those whose work directly affects the safety of a large number of people on the roads.
