Specific and temporary measures in view of COVID-19 outbreak and concerning the validity of certain certificates, licences and authorisations and the postponement of certain periodic checks and training in certain areas of transport legislation

The European Parliament adopted by 669 votes to 11, with 8 abstentions, a legislative resolution on the proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down specific and temporary measures in view of COVID-19 outbreak and concerning the validity of certain certificates, licences and authorisations and the postponement of certain periodic checks and training in certain areas of transport legislation.

Parliament adopted its position at first reading under the ordinary legislative procedure. As an agreement was reached between Parliament and the Council, Parliament's position corresponds to the final legislative act.

The proposed Regulation introduces temporary measures to extend the period of validity of certain certificates and licences in the field of road, rail and inland waterway transport in response to the extraordinary circumstances caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

This extension applies, for example, to driving licences, roadworthiness tests for motor vehicles and Community licences and driver attestations for the provision of road haulage services, single railway safety certificates or authorisations, boatmasters' certificates or port safety assessments.

Certain periodic inspections planned in the road, rail, maritime and inland waterway sectors shall also be temporarily postponed, as these activities may not be feasible in the present circumstances.

The Regulation provides, however, that even where a Member State continues to issue licences itself, it must recognise any licence, certificate and approval whose validity has been extended by this Regulation.