Montenegro has recently introduced new rules for drivers of trucks and buses, who now need to have completed secondary 3-year school, driving licence for vehicles in groups C, D and E, as well as the professional driving licence issued by the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro (PKCG). The new rules are in line with the European standards, and while some drivers oppose them as they have to pay extra EUR 300 for attending the training course in order to get the licence, the PKCG clearly pointed out that the obligation of getting a licence stemmed from the EU directives and so far over 2,000 drivers have applied for the course.
According to the PKCG, the negotiation talks for the EU membership prescribe the obligation of enforcing European standards in all areas, including transport of passengers and cargo. This institution also explained the training course for professional development of drivers in the national and international road transport of passengers/cargo enables drivers to acquire new knowledge and skills, in accordance with the national legislation and EU directives.
“Professional driving licence represents a condition for entering the market in public road transport of passengers and cargo, under the national legislation and the EU directives as well,” the Professional Service of the PKCG said.
After the candidates finish the training course and pass the exam, they are to get a certificate which must be registered in the PKCG, and in the International Road Transport Union, IRU, seated in Geneva. The programs of the training courses are internationally recognized and accredited by the IRU. Over 2,000 drivers have applied for the course so far. Anyone wanting to attend it has to pay EUR 300, and according to PKCG, in defining the costs of the training course, all aspects were carefully examined.
The training courses were organized in Podgorica, Nikšić, Pljevlja, Bar, Budva and Ulcinj and 1,050 drivers have already completed it. “We plan to organize the training courses in other Montenegrin towns as well. The drivers who have already attended the training course appear to be quite satisfied with it,” the PKCG noted.
