Luxembourg’s “Pink Paper” Driving Licences Valid Until 2033, Digital Format on the Horizon

Around 62,000 paper-format driving licences are still in circulation in Luxembourg, but holders have until 19 January 2033 to replace them with the EU-standard plastic card, according to Mobility Minister Yuriko Backes.

The European Union introduced a harmonised card model for driving licences in 2013, yet as of October 2025, 62,094 Luxembourgers continue to use the older pink paper version. Backes clarified that licences issued before 19 January 2013 remain valid — provided they haven’t expired or required renewal — until the 2033 deadline.

Unlike some EU countries, Luxembourg will not phase out old licences gradually based on birth year or administrative appointments. The minister confirmed that no staggered replacement system is planned.

However, voluntary exchange has been available for several years through the SNCA (National Society of Automotive Traffic). The option has proven popular: 3,112 people switched to the card model in 2023, and 3,269 did so in 2024.

To ensure a smooth transition, Backes said the ministry and SNCA will launch an information campaign at a later stage. The campaign will aim to give residents sufficient time to act while preventing congestion in administrative services. Typically, a seven-year replacement window is used to manage demand efficiently.

Looking ahead, the future of the driving licence is digital. The new EU Driving Licence Directive, adopted this year by the European Parliament and Council, will allow the introduction of a digital driving licence across all EU member states.

Luxembourg will have four years to implement the directive once it is officially published. “As part of this process, a digital driving licence will also be introduced in Luxembourg,” Backes confirmed.
Read More : "Paper" driving licence: you have until 2033 to replace it | The Daily

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