In a written answer on 17 July 2026, Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas indicated that the European Commission may consider revising Directive (EU) 2022/2561 on professional driver training, following an implementation dialogue planned for autumn 2026. The response, addressing a question by MEP Pascal Arimont (EPP), aims to balance road safety and environmental benefits against concerns over regulatory burden and costs for companies and experienced drivers.
The Commissioner confirmed that while the directive mandates eco-driving training for initial qualification, it does not require such training in periodic refresher courses. Member States have flexibility to tailor periodic training content to drivers' specific transport operations and technological developments, but e-learning is capped at 12 hours per 35-hour cycle, and no differentiated rules exist for experienced drivers. Arimont had questioned whether blanket recurrent practical training provides sufficient added value for seasoned drivers using modern vehicles, citing increased costs and organisational strain.
Tzitzikostas stressed that well-trained drivers enhance road safety, environmental performance, and sector competitiveness. However, he acknowledged the directive already offers implementation flexibility and announced a stakeholder dialogue in autumn 2026 to gather views from national authorities and industry. This could lead to further actions, including potential rule changes to cut red tape and bolster competitiveness.
The answer provides no concrete proposals or timelines beyond the dialogue, signalling a cautious, evidence-based approach. The Commission is expected to assess feedback before deciding on any legislative or non-legislative follow-up, likely in 2027. Stakeholders impacted include professional drivers (potential relief from mandatory practical training), transport companies (reduced compliance costs), training providers (possible shift toward digital methods), and road safety/environmental groups (concerned about diluted standards).