Estonia's Centre Party proposes allowing category B driving licences from age 17

The Centre Party faction in Estonia's parliament, the Riigikogu, on Tuesday submitted a bill that would let people obtain a category B driving licence (for ordinary passenger cars) at 17 instead of the current 18. If the amendments are adopted, they would take effect on 1 January 2027.

Faction chairman Lauri Laats, presenting the initiative in parliament, said that being able to drive independently from the age of 17 would help young people take part in working life and make it easier to get around in places where public transport is poorly developed.

Laats pointed to areas where young people have to travel to school and back over fairly long distances. In his words, there is no full bus service they could rely on, so a heavy burden falls on parents.

Labour market and examples from other countries

The Centre Party also notes that holding a driving licence can widen young people's opportunities in the labour market.

As examples, the party cites the United Kingdom, Ireland and France, where a category B licence can be obtained from the age of 17.

The bill has been submitted to parliament and has not yet been adopted. The source does not say how other factions or the government view the initiative.