Older drivers could be flagged up to face two crucial assessments before getting their driving licence renewed at 70.
Elderly drivers may face two vital checks to keep their licence and stay on the road (Image: Getty)
Elderly drivers “may be required” to undergo two vital assessments to renew their driving licence and stay on the road once they hit the age of 70. Siobhan Thomas, a partner in Hugh James’ Serious Injury Team, explained that drivers may be asked to undergo medical checks to renew their DVLA photocard once they reach a major milestone.
Tests can include “vision tests” or “cognitive assessments” to make sure road users are still safe to continue driving. Experts warn that road users may also have to face “discussions about specific health conditions” if anything is flagged on self-assessment forms. Although there is no maximum age limit for driving on UK roads, motorists must renew their driving licence every three years once they reach the age of 70.
Experts warn that medical assessments may include vision tests (Image: Getty)
Siobhan said: “Depending on your responses to the self-assessment questionnaire, you may be required to undergo a medical assessment to assess your fitness to drive.
“These assessments are conducted by healthcare professionals, often your GP or a designated medical practitioner. Medical assessments may include vision tests, cognitive assessments, and discussions about specific health conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely.”
Under the current rules, only drivers who could be a risk based on their self-assessment are asked to take extra medical checks. However, new proposals being considered by the Government could extend the rule, with all motorists affected.
Earlier this summer, the Government confirmed they were looking into launching compulsory eye tests for motorists aged over 70 as part of its latest road safety strategy. Everyone over the age of 60 is entitled to a free NHS eye examination, meaning the new mandatory checks are unlikely to cost motorists any extra money.
As well as checking general vision, eye tests can usually allow for early detection and treatment of asymptomatic eye conditions.
Earlier this summer, Dr Gillian Rudduck, president of The College of Optometrists, backed the new rule but urged Labour to go even further.
Gillian said: “An introduction of mandatory sight tests for drivers aged over 70 would be a welcome step in improving vision standards for drivers in the UK. But the rules could go further to ensure that UK standards are in alignment to those internationally.
“We are calling for a mandatory requirement for all drivers to submit evidence of an up-to-date sight test at licence application and renewal, every 10 years and then every 3 years from age 70, to align with age-related eye conditions and deterioration in visual function.”
