Italy has abandoned one of the most controversial parts of its Traffic Code reform, which involved severe restrictions for drivers over the age of 85. Initially, the preliminary draft proposed banning this group from driving on highways, limiting their travel radius to 100 kilometers from their residence, and applying a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol consumption, even considering a total driving ban after that age.
In response to strong negative reaction, the Ministry of Transport announced on Sunday that these measures were removed from the draft, at the request of Minister Matteo Salvini. Instead, the government plans to implement stricter medical evaluations for drivers over 85, requiring an individual examination of physical and mental condition, ensuring that age alone is not an impediment to driving.
This retreat is not only politically motivated. European Union Directive 2025/2205 stipulates that any suspension, revocation, or restriction of a license must be analyzed on an individual basis and must never result in discrimination, especially on the grounds of age. However, the same regulation allows member states to reduce the validity periods of licenses for individuals over 65, enabling more frequent medical examinations.
The discussion is particularly delicate in a country like Italy, which has one of the oldest populations in Europe, where the car often represents the only mode of transport outside major urban centers. As a parallel, Brazil does not establish an age limit for driving, managing the issue through the validity period of the driver's license, following a logic similar to what Italy is currently adopting.
In Brazil, according to Law 14.071/2020, the driver's license is valid for ten years for those under 50, five years for the 50 to 69 age group, and three years starting from 70, with a mandatory physical and mental fitness exam required upon each renewal.
Besides the issue of the elderly, the Italian reform provides for the tightening of rules regarding the use of mobile phones. Drivers caught using the device while driving can be fined up to 2,588 euros, equivalent to approximately R$15,270, in cases of recidivism, in addition to a driving license suspension of one to three months. The proposal also extends to pedestrians, imposing a fine starting from 75 euros (about R$443) for crossing the street distracted by a cell phone, a measure in response to the increase in accidents caused by inattention.
The legislative text has not yet been finalized. Industry associations have until September 13th to submit their comments on the draft, at which point the Ministry of Transport will prepare the final version, expected in mid-October.