Steer2EU

Examining the EU framework for third-country drivers

Steer2EU is a European Commission fact-finding study. It seeks to gain insights on EU and Member State methods and practices for the employment of third-country bus and truck drivers.

The study will inform EU decision-makers on Member States’ current third-country driver integration policies. It will also recommend measures to standardise the qualification and training requirements for third-country drivers to enter the EU labour market.

Countries involved in the study include Switzerland, the United Kingdom, several non-EU countries participating in the ECMT quota system and countries under the EU talent partnerships programme.

IRU's role

As the implementing body, IRU is responsible for conducting research, analysing data, organising workshops and providing expert advice.

IRU will compile a comprehensive overview of EU and Member State laws and practices relevant to the entry and employment of third-country professional drivers. This includes extensive research and stakeholder surveys, with a focus on understanding recruitment and qualification recognition processes.

IRU will conduct a detailed comparison between the certification requirements for bus, coach and truck drivers in 20 third countries and those of the EU Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).

The analysis aims to identify differences in the training and skills of third-country drivers compared to EU standards and provide best practices for integrating third-country drivers into the EU job market.

IRU will organise an international workshop in Brussels to share the project’s findings and recommendations with a diverse group of stakeholders.

Project results

Steer2EU will provide comprehensive data on the recruitment and employment of third-country drivers in the EU through surveys and interviews. Insights from this research will be shared at a mid-term workshop in September 2024.

The project aims to generate a thorough comparison between third-country certification processes and the EU’s CPC to identify educational and skills gaps.

The analysis will offer detailed insights on the requirements in more than 20 third countries, enhancing the understanding of global professional driving standards and practices.

The project’s findings will be presented at an international workshop in Brussels. The event will bring together stakeholders from national authorities, the transport industry and the educational sector to discuss outcomes and share best practices.

The successful completion of the Steer2EU project will help inform future policy decisions.