Older drivers have been urged to ensure they meet minimum eyesight requirements before getting behind the wheel. According to the Older Drivers Forum, all drivers must be able to read a vehicle’s number plate from 20 metres (65 feet 8 inches) away, using glasses or contact lenses if necessary. Failure to meet this standard not only endangers road safety but could also lead to prosecution.
The Forum emphasized the importance of having an adequate field of vision and a visual acuity of at least 0.5 (6/12 on the Snellen scale), which can be tested by an optician. This applies to both eyes together or the single seeing eye if vision in one eye is impaired.
Transport Secretary Lilian Greenwood highlighted the personal and societal impacts of road accidents, noting that while roads remain among the safest globally, fatalities and serious injuries persist. In 2024, 1,224 older drivers were killed or seriously injured—a slight decrease from the previous year but an increase compared to a decade ago.
In response, the government is consulting on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers aged 70 and above. This consideration follows recommendations from coroners and acknowledges the natural decline in vision associated with ageing, including conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Greenwood also acknowledged the challenges presented by an ageing population, recognizing the need to balance road safety with preserving older adults' independence. The consultation may also pave the way for future measures addressing other fitness-to-drive factors, such as cognitive assessments.
“Our goal is to support older drivers in maintaining their independence while ensuring the safety of all road users,” Greenwood stated. The government’s move reflects a commitment to adapt licensing processes to meet changing health needs while protecting communities on the road.