Motorists over the age of 70 may face tough new restrictions to get behind the wheel in 2026.
Motorists over the age of 70 could be banned from the roads under new checks (Image: Getty)
Opticians have warned that drivers above the age of 70 could be banned from the roads under radical new changes being considered by politicians. Eye experts OptiCare have warned that motorists could be taken off the roads if they fail to attend and pass a compulsory eye test if new legislation is passed.
Earlier this year, the Government confirmed it would look at introducing a new Road Safety Strategy. Although no concrete details have been confirmed, mandatory eye tests for the over-70s have been tipped to feature alongside stricter drink-drive and seatbelt laws.
Elderly drivers may have to undergo eye checks in a road safety boost (Image: Getty)
If the changes are introduced, road users will have to pass an eye test to renew their licence every three years after the age of 70. Those failing the test will not have their licence renewed by the DVLA and will effectively be banned from the roads.
OptiCare said: “The UK is set to introduce a new law where motorists over the age of 70 could be banned from driving if they fail to attend for a compulsory eye test carried out when renewing their driving licence every three years.”
There is no firm date on when the new rule could come into force but legislation could change before the end of 2026. Earlier this year, Senior Coroner for Lancashire Dr James Adeley urged Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander to take action on driver licensing rules.
He described the UK self-certification system one of the “laxest in Europe”, with the legal standard for motorists considered to be “ineffective and unsafe”.
After news that over-70s eye tests were likely to be introduced, the College of Optometrists backed the decision. They called the move “a welcome step in improving vision standards for drivers in the UK”.
However, they suggested that the rules could go further to ensure that UK standards were in closer alignment to other countries internationally. But John Wilmot, CEO of Leasing Options, explained that the new rules would ensure drivers were safe behind the wheel.
He added: “Drivers aged 70 and above may soon be required to undergo mandatory eyesight tests every three years when they renew their licence, as the current system relies on motorists to self-report any problems with their vision.
“The new regulations aim to ensure all drivers meet the vision requirements needed for safe driving.”
