Datex

DATEX is a family of standards for the exchange of traffic and travel information, developed primarily for Europe. The most widely deployed version is DATEX II, which provides a common information model and a set of XML-based schemas for sharing data between traffic authorities, service providers, and ITS vendors.

Purpose and scope

DATEX II is designed to enable interoperable data exchange across borders and between different systems. It covers real-time and near-real-time traffic information as well as static content. Typical data categories include incidents and road events, road works, traffic restrictions and conditions, weather, public transport information, and the structure of the road network. The standard aims to support consistent data interpretation by downstream systems and applications.

Architecture and data model

DATEX II uses modular data models that describe time-dependent information, locations, and the validity of data. Core elements specify what is happening, where, and when, while additional modules address situations (such as accidents or closures), network information, location referencing, and measurement data. The model is designed to be technology-neutral, enabling implementation over various transport layers and messaging methods.

Exchange and deployment

Implementation typically relies on XML schemas, with data exchanged via web services, file transfers, or messaging infrastructure. While XML is common, some deployments support alternative serializations such as JSON. DATEX II is intended for both national and cross-border ITS ecosystems, promoting consistency in how traffic data is represented and consumed.

History and status

DATEX originated in Europe in the late 20th century and evolved into DATEX II in the 2000s as a standardized approach to traffic and travel data exchange. It is maintained by European standardization efforts and widely adopted by national road authorities, regional agencies, and ITS vendors to enable interoperable traffic information services.