Drivers in the UK aged 70 and over could soon face new mandatory assessments to renew their driving licence and continue using the roads.
What the New Assessments Would Involve
According to legal expert Siobhan Thomas, a partner in the Serious Injury Team at law firm Hugh James, the process would involve a detailed self-assessment questionnaire. Depending on an individual's responses, they may then be required to undergo a formal medical assessment conducted by a healthcare professional, such as their GP.
These medical checks are designed to ensure a driver remains fit to be behind the wheel. They could include formal vision tests, cognitive assessments, and in-depth discussions about specific health conditions that might impact driving safety.
Calls for Stricter Vision Rules
The proposed changes have received backing from optical health professionals. Dr Gillian Rudduck, President of The College of Optometrists, has urged the government to go further by introducing mandatory sight tests for all drivers.
She advocates for a system where all drivers must submit evidence of an up-to-date sight test every 10 years, increasing to every 3 years from age 70. This, she argues, would bring the UK in line with international standards and better account for age-related deterioration in vision.
Broader Road Safety Overhaul
These proposals for older drivers form part of a wider planned shake-up of UK road safety laws. Ministers are also reportedly considering tougher penalties for driving without insurance and for failing to wear a seatbelt.
The full set of measures is expected to be published as part of a new road safety strategy in the autumn of 2026. The moves come amid ongoing concern about the number of people killed or seriously injured on British roads each year.
