Campaigners and authorities are hoping to find the perfect balance between the safety of all road users, and not interfering too heavy-handedly with the independence of elderly motorists
Older Brit motorists may soon have to take another driving test when they reach a certain age, with the government reportedly considering mandatory eyesight checks for septuagenarians.
When a British driver first turns 70, their driving licence automatically expires. It is mandatory to renew the licence to continue driving legally. Thankfully the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) sends out reminders and forms as drivers approach their 70th birthdays, as well as at each subsequent renewal period.
If a licence is not renewed, the individual is no longer legally allowed to drive — doing so would mean driving without a licence or insurance, both of which can lead to prosecution.
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The DVLA even took to social media to spread the word, warning on X: “You need to renew your licence every 3 years after you turn 70. Do it online now it’s easy, quick and secure.”
But now ministers are determined to beef these measures up further by introducing compulsory eyesight testing for older drivers. Those who fail them would banned from driving altogether, as reported by Birmingham Live.
Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at Confused.com, said: “Having regular eye tests is essential in keeping our roads safe, for all drivers, no matter what age. That’s why the new rules for regular eye tests for older drivers are welcomed.
“For drivers over 70, eyesight can change gradually without realising, and that can have a real impact on the ability to react to hazards, read road signs or judge distances. And this change should also be a reminder to all drivers to keep on top of yearly eye tests.
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“If drivers notice changes in their vision, it’s important to book an appointment sooner than this, and also notify the DVLA or any medical changes that could impact their licence.”
Failing to notify the DVLA about certain medical conditions can result in a fine of up to £1,000, as well as the potential for prosecution if involved in an accident. Age UK warned: “If your licence expires and you don’t apply for a new one, you won’t legally be allowed to drive.”
This comes amid calls for tougher regulations, including annual driving tests and medical checks for those over 70. Critics argue that the system currently in place may not be robust enough to ensure the safety of everyone on the road, as it relies on drivers reporting their own health and fitness to drive.
Across Europe, several countries have already introduced stricter measures for elderly drivers. In the Netherlands, Italy and Portugal, drivers aged 70 and over must undergo regular medical examinations to renew their licence.
France is also considering even tighter regulations, with a proposed bill that would require compulsory medical check-ups every five years for drivers over 70, involving a GP or specialist testing the driver’s cognitive and physical health. They would then issue a certificate confirming their fitness to drive.
While the debate continues, campaigners and authorities are hoping to find the perfect balance between the safety of all road users, and not interfering too heavy-handedly with the independence of elderly motorists.
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