Drivers over the age of 70 are at risk of losing their driving licence within 56 days under DVLA rules, as the agency faces criticism for lengthy delays in processing medical condition reports. Under current regulations, motorists must notify the DVLA if they develop a "notifiable" medical condition or disability, or if an existing condition deteriorates.
Delays Cause Distress
The DVLA has been slammed for being "too slow," with Vikki Slade, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, describing the service as "stuck in manual." The average time to make a licensing decision in cases requiring medical investigation is 56.66 working days, raising concerns for older drivers who must renew their licence every three years after turning 70.
Among those affected is 82-year-old Glenda Edwards, who applied to renew her driving licence in January. As part of the process, she declared she had glaucoma. "Sometimes they'll say there's a long queue, try again later," she said. "Other times they'll say you can hold on and we'll call you back. You press the buttons and they never, ever ring back."
Ms Edwards added: "I don't want to go anywhere unless I have to. I don't use the car as much as I used to. It's had a devastating impact on me." Her friend noted: "When I turned up to have this chat online she was in tears. She's been very distressed by it. More so because she doesn't have her licence and she's worried about being stopped by the police. She's worried whether she should be driving or not. It's had a huge, huge impact on her."
Safety Concerns Raised
Another elderly motorist told ITV News: "They want to ensure people are safe to drive and I understand that. But by taking as long as they are, they are being counterproductive and they are causing maybe the roads not to be as safe as they should be."
The DVLA responded: "When we have the information we need, we always aim to make a decision as quickly as possible. Our staff are working hard to reduce delays, and we have introduced a new casework system which is expected to deliver significant improvements as more customers transact via our new online system."
