The government under Prime Minister Andy Burnham is evaluating potential changes to driving licence renewal requirements for drivers over the age of 70. The Department for Transport recently concluded a consultation exploring the possibility of discontinuing the current self-declaration system for eyesight standards among this age group.
One of the key proposals under consideration is the introduction of mandatory eyesight tests as part of the licence renewal process for older drivers. The consultation, which closed in mid-May, included a range of options aimed at enhancing road safety for older drivers and other road users who may be involved in incidents.
These options extend beyond eyesight assessments, encompassing cognitive tests and medical evaluations during each licence renewal. The government is also considering greater involvement of healthcare professionals in determining driver fitness, possibly including a legal requirement for clinicians to report patients deemed unfit to drive to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
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Specifically, the Department for Transport is exploring the implementation of compulsory eyesight tests every three years for drivers aged 70 and over, aligning with the current licence renewal cycle. There is also discussion about increasing the frequency of these assessments as drivers reach higher age brackets.
Following the consultation, a summary of responses and the government’s position will be published on the dedicated consultation homepage. Paper copies of the summary will be provided upon request.
As the Labour Prime Minister, Mr Burnham is expected to finalise decisions on these proposals. Heidi Alexander has been reappointed as Transport Secretary and is intimately familiar with the review, having authored the foreword for the associated strategy document.
Ms Alexander emphasised the government’s commitment to road safety, stating:
“Road safety is fundamental to everything this government stands for. Safer roads underpin our national missions - driving economic growth, enabling greener journeys through active travel, easing pressure on the NHS and ensuring that everyone can travel safely.”