The administration led by Andy Burnham is actively exploring the introduction of mandatory driving tests for motorists aged 70 and above, a move that could see licences revoked for those who fail to meet new standards. This follows a consultation initiated under the previous government of Sir Keir Starmer, which proposed mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers and the development of options for cognitive assessments.
Consultation and Timeline
The Road Safety Strategy, confirmed in January, triggered a public consultation that ran until mid-May. The government had committed to publishing a response within three months of the consultation closing, placing the onus on Burnham, who took over as Labour leader in August, to deliver the outcome. The strategy explicitly states: "The government is consulting on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over age 70 and will develop options for cognitive testing for older drivers."
These measures are designed to reduce deaths and injuries involving older drivers without unnecessarily restricting their mobility and personal freedom. The strategy adds: "The government will continue to work closely with the National Police Chiefs’ Council to highlight the importance of regular police roadside eyesight tests for all drivers, ensuring that those drivers who fail to meet the minimum eyesight standards required for driving will have their driving licence revoked by DVLA."
Official Statements and Support
Transport minister Lilian Greenwood earlier this year underscored the importance of balancing safety with independence. "We know driving can be very important for older people’s wellbeing and help them to live independently, but we must also make sure everyone is safe on our roads," she said. "As the country’s older population grows, our plans in the first road safety strategy in more than a decade will preserve personal freedoms where possible with action to save lives."
The AA’s Edmund King welcomed the potential change, noting that "a move to make eye tests for older drivers mandatory is obviously welcome, especially as the likelihood of crashes increases once someone is over the age of 70 and markedly shoots up over the age of 80 to a peak at age 86, with eyesight often a worrying factor." He added that eye tests are free for those over 60 and advised every two years, and the AA recommends all drivers have an eye test every two years.
Impact on Older Drivers
If introduced, the mandatory tests could affect a significant portion of the driving population. According to the Department for Transport, there were over 5.5 million drivers aged 70 and above in Great Britain in 2024, a number that is projected to grow as the population ages. The government’s proposals aim to strike a balance between road safety and the mobility needs of older people, who often rely on driving for essential trips and social connections.
The consultation response is expected to outline next steps, including potential pilot schemes for cognitive testing and the legal framework for mandatory eyesight checks. The DVLA would be responsible for revoking licences of those who fail to meet the minimum standards, as already happens for roadside eyesight failures.
Looking Ahead
The Burnham government’s decision on this issue will be closely watched by motoring organisations, older drivers, and road safety campaigners. While the AA has expressed support, other groups have raised concerns about the potential impact on rural communities where public transport is limited. The government has emphasised that any measures will be proportionate and aim to preserve personal freedom where possible, as stated in the strategy.
As the consultation feedback deadline has passed, all eyes are on Burnham to deliver a response that balances safety with the needs of an ageing population. The outcome could set a precedent for how the UK handles driver licensing for older adults in the coming years.
