Irish driving bans may soon apply across the entire European Union.
It was announced today as part of the European Commission’s plan to overhaul and update several aspects of road transport.
Under the plans, a new system would be in place allowing for an EU-wide driving disqualification when a member state decides to disqualify a driver.
A woman talking on her phone while driving"Holding road traffic offenders accountable in all member states is essential for road safety," it said.
"However, under current rules, when a serious offence results in a driving disqualification, it cannot be enforced EU-wide if the driver committed the offence in a member state other than the one that issued his/her driving licence.
"Today's proposal covers severe road traffic offences such as excessive speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and causing death or serious bodily injury as a result of any traffic offence".
Digital driving licence
The plans could also see the introduction of digital driving licences that would be valid throughout the EU.
These could be stored on smart devices, such as mobile phones.
The Commission said the change would make it easier to replace, renew or exchange a licence since all procedures will be online.
It would also be easier for citizens from non-EU countries, with comparable road safety standards, to exchange their driving licence for an EU one.
EU Transport Commissioner Adina Valean said the new licence format would be optional.
"In the not-so-distant future, your driver licence will be on your phone - or any other digital device," she said.
"Although you will be able to request a physical version if you prefer.
"The digital licence is a question of personal convenience - but our directive will also simplify and lighten the administrative burden involved in processing a physical licence," she added.
Since January 2013, all driving licences issued by EU countries have the same look and feel.
The proposals will now be considered by the European Parliament and Council.
