The previous Labour government announced a Road Safety Strategy earlier this year, proposing three mandatory tests for drivers aged 70 and over. Now Prime Minister Andy Burnham must decide on the measures following the conclusion of a public consultation in May.
Three Proposed Tests
The strategy includes mandatory eyesight checks, cognitive assessments, and enhanced roadside tests. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, reappointed by Burnham, has outlined the government's reasoning. At the time of the consultation, Alexander stated: "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."
Cognitive Assessments
The government is considering cognitive assessments at licence renewal for older drivers. The consultation document notes: "While this consultation is focused on the mandatory eyesight testing of drivers aged 70 and over, we also recognise that as the population ages, more will need to be done to address the challenges this poses and consideration will also be given in the future to other fitness to drive measures, such as cognitive assessments." Driver licensing is a reserved matter for England, Scotland, and Wales, meaning any changes would apply across these nations.
Mandatory Eyesight Checks
The current system relies on self-declaration of eyesight standards for drivers aged 70 and over. The consultation seeks views on introducing mandatory eyesight tests as part of the licence renewal process. This would provide assurance that licence holders meet required vision standards and enable proactive intervention if vision poses a road safety risk. Currently, there is no requirement for all drivers to have an eyesight test for licensing, but the DVLA investigates when notified of a medical or vision condition.
Roadside Checks
Drivers who reapply for a licence after failing to read a number plate from 20 metres during a police roadside test or driving test must undergo a number plate test by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) before a licence is issued. The government said ministers would "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."
The three measures aim to address road safety concerns as the population ages. The previous Labour government's strategy was a response to increasing numbers of older drivers and the need to balance safety with independence. Prime Minister Burnham's decisions will shape the future of driving regulations for the over-70s.
