Rise in Older Drivers on Roads Illegally Due to Licence Renewal Oversight

Recent research has revealed a growing number of older drivers are failing to renew their driving licences when they turn 70, resulting in many driving illegally. UK law requires drivers to apply to the DVLA to renew their licences upon reaching their 70th birthday and every three years thereafter. This process is crucial to ensure the DVLA is aware of any medical conditions that could affect a person’s fitness to drive.

Data obtained from the DVLA shows that since 2022, a total of 2,839 drivers did not apply for licence renewal after turning 70. In 2025 alone, the number has surged to 1,226, more than double the 523 from the previous year. While some drivers may have chosen to stop driving and therefore avoided renewing their licences, many likely missed the renewal deadline or have renewed late or not at all.

This situation means there are potentially many drivers on UK roads without a valid licence, technically driving illegally since their licences expired upon turning 70. The Government is considering introducing mandatory eyesight tests for drivers over 70 as part of stricter road safety measures.

The Government reiterates that once a driver reaches 70, they must renew their driving licence every three years. Older drivers can conveniently renew their licences online, including those turning 70 within the next three months.