The Labour government is planning to introduce compulsory eyesight testing for drivers aged 70 and over at the point of licence renewal, replacing the current self-declaration system. Further checks would be required at least every three years thereafter, according to the Road Safety Strategy launched by Sir Keir Starmer in January.
The plans, now under the authority of Andy Burnham as Prime Minister, also include consideration of a second test: future cognitive assessments for drivers with certain medical conditions. The aim is to maintain safety while supporting continued independence for older motorists.
What the new checks would involve
The proposed eyesight test would be mandatory at licence renewal from age 70, with additional checks every three years. This replaces the existing self-declaration system, which the government says can fail to identify gradual changes in vision.
The strategy also highlights the importance of drivers notifying the DVLA if they have a notifiable medical condition. It reminds medical professionals of their duty to inform the DVLA if a patient is unwilling or unable to notify the authority themselves.
Police roadside tests and DVLA action
The government says it will continue to work closely with the National Police Chiefs’ Council to promote regular police roadside eyesight tests for all drivers. Those who fail to meet minimum eyesight standards required for driving will have their driving licence revoked by the DVLA.
Labour MP Lillian Greenwood, speaking when the Road Safety Strategy was launched, said: “While this consultation is focused on the mandatory eyesight testing of drivers aged 70 and over, we also recognise that more will need to be done to address wider health conditions associated with an ageing population and the increase in older drivers predicted.”
Future fitness-to-drive measures
Greenwood added: “Consideration will be given in the future to other fitness to drive measures, such as cognitive assessments.”
The Department for Transport said: “As the population in Great Britain (GB) ages, the proportion of older drivers on the road continues to increase. While driving provides older people with independence and mobility, it also presents challenges to road safety when faced with issues that form part of the natural ageing process, such as cognitive decline, deteriorating vision and increased frailty.”
