Greece is moving ahead with the gradual replacement of older driver’s licenses as part of a European Union effort to fully harmonize driving permits across member states, authorities say. Under the plan, all licenses issued before January 2013 will need to be exchanged for a standardized EU-format card by January 2033.

The transition marks the end of the old paper and early plastic licenses still in circulation. Officials say the replacement process is straightforward and largely digital, requiring drivers to submit an application through the national government platform and provide basic identification, a biometric photo, and their current license. The cost of the new EU-style license is about €30, depending on the region.

Key deadlines are already in place. The next major cutoff is January 19, 2026, when plastic card licenses issued between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2001, must be replaced. Other categories will follow in stages, with the final deadline of January 19, 2033, covering licenses issued between January 1, 2012, and January 18, 2013.

For older, paper-based licenses, the timeline depends on the driver’s year of birth. Drivers born before January 1, 1953, have until January 2033 to replace their licenses. Younger age groups were required to complete the process earlier, between 2022 and 2025, depending on their birth year.

Authorities stress that failing to replace an outdated license on time does not revoke the right to drive, which remains valid for life. However, using an expired-format license during a traffic stop may result in a warning and a small fine of about €10. More serious complications can arise outside Greece, where penalties vary by country and may include restrictions on continuing a trip.

Special rules apply to older drivers. Those over 65 who still hold paper licenses must replace them immediately and undergo mandatory medical examinations. After age 65, licenses must be renewed every three years, while drivers over 80 are required to renew every two years, with medical assessments from specialists.

The EU-standard license aims to improve security, reduce fraud, and ensure uniform recognition across Europe, officials say, urging drivers to check their category and meet the required deadlines.