DGT Director Questions New European License for 17-Year-Olds
A new European Union directive has sparked controversy in Spain. The regulation, which will allow 17-year-olds to obtain the B driving license, has found a staunch opponent in the nation's top traffic authority. Pere Navarro, DGT general director, has openly expressed his reservations and distrust toward this measure, considering it no progress for road safety in Spain. 🚦
The Foundations of Spanish Skepticism
Navarro's stance is not casual; it is based on the restrictive Spanish model for novice drivers, which includes a stricter blood alcohol limit and a reduced initial points balance during the first year. The director argues that the core of the problem does not lie in chronological age, but in the lack of real driving experience. From his perspective, lowering the legal age without a parallel and significant reinforcement of practical training could have adverse effects. The DGT advocates intensifying educational programs and awareness from early stages, rather than advancing access to the license.
Key Points of the DGT's Criticism:- Experience vs. Age: Priority is given to skill and practice time over simply reducing the minimum age.
- National Model: Defends the current Spanish system for novices, already considered rigorous in itself.
- Insufficient Training: They warn that the European directive does not guarantee a substantial increase in practical training behind the wheel.
"This measure does not convince me. I do not see it as an advance in road safety for our country." - Pere Navarro, DGT General Director.
A Clash of Visions: Mobility vs. Caution
The community directive primarily seeks regulatory harmonization and to facilitate cross-border mobility for young drivers. Its defenders claim it allows early experience gain under supervision, a model with good results in other member states. However, the DGT's firm opposition casts shadows on its effective implementation in Spain and raises a crucial question: will this policy improve youth accident statistics or, on the contrary, increase risks? 🤔
Open Debates on Implementation:- Mandatory Supervision: Questions arise about whether the model will include a robust and controlled adult accompaniment system.
- Real Harmonization: There is tension between the unifying European norm and the power of states to apply their own safety criteria.
- Statistical Impact: Doubts focus on whether mobility benefits will outweigh potential road risks.
An Institutional Showdown Yet to Be Defined
In short, we are facing a political and technical showdown between Brussels and Madrid. While the EU pushes for greater freedom of movement for young people, the Spanish DGT slams on the brakes and advocates for prudence and extensive training. The future 17-year-old license is thus debated between being seen as a mobility right or as a potential risk factor that requires very thoughtful national transposition. The outcome of this debate will shape road safety policy for a new generation of drivers. ⚖️