The Older Drivers Forum has issued a stark warning: older drivers who cannot read a car number plate from 20 metres away, even with glasses or contact lenses, should not be driving and could face prosecution. This comes as the Labour Party government explores introducing mandatory eyesight checks and tests for drivers aged 70 and over.
Current Eyesight Requirements
According to the Older Drivers Forum, the standard eyesight test for driving requires reading a number plate from 20 metres (65 feet 8 inches) with corrective lenses if needed. Failure to meet this standard means a driver should not be on the road. Additionally, drivers must have an adequate field of vision and a visual acuity of at least decimal 0.5 (6/12) on the Snellen scale, measured with both eyes together or in one eye if sight is only in that eye. Opticians can provide this test.
Government Consultation on Mandatory Testing
Transport Secretary Lilian Greenwood announced a consultation seeking views on mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers. She highlighted that in 2024, there were 1,224 killed or seriously injured (KSI) older car driver casualties, a 3% decrease from 2023 but a 7% increase compared to 2014. Greenwood stated, "Every fatality and serious collision is a tragedy. Having met with the families and friends of some of those who have been killed or seriously injured, I have some sense of the devastation road harm has on their lives."
Balancing Safety and Independence
Greenwood acknowledged the challenges of an ageing population, where vision conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration become more common. She said, "We need to find the right balance between ensuring that older people can actively participate in society and retain their independence, whilst at the same time maintaining safe driving on the roads." The consultation focuses on mandatory eyesight testing for drivers aged 70 and over, but future measures may include cognitive assessments to address wider health conditions.
Greenwood added, "I want to support drivers as they become older. I recognise that having a driving licence is a lifeline for many and provides independence and freedom. However, we need to ensure older drivers can continue to drive safely as long as they are fit and healthy to do so."
