The DVLA will cancel driving licences for over-70s who fail new compulsory safety tests, as the government tightens rules to ensure older drivers remain safe on the road.
Mandatory Eyesight and Cognitive Tests
Ministers are introducing mandatory eyesight tests for drivers aged 70 and over, with reports suggesting cognitive tests may also be required. These measures aim to address concerns about reaction times and focus, following a number of tragic incidents involving older motorists.
Currently, drivers must self-report medical conditions, but the government believes this system allows cases to slip through the net. Under the new plans, over-70s will need to provide evidence of passing tests before their licences are renewed every three years. Those who fail will have their licences cancelled on safety grounds.
Rising Licence Revocations
An investigation found that over 10,000 licences have been revoked or refused renewal since the start of last year, and tougher rules are expected to increase that number significantly. Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert at Confused.com, commented: "Sufficient eyesight is crucial for safe driving at any age, as clear vision is essential for spotting hazards and reacting quickly behind the wheel."
He added: "While the government's consultation on introducing mandatory eye tests for older drivers is a positive step towards improving road safety, it's important to recognise that eyesight can change over time, and many motorists may not realise when their vision no longer meets the legal standard."
Research from Confused.com shows collisions involving drivers with eyesight issues rose by 26% in the last year, with nearly 20,000 licences revoked over the past three years due to vision problems. More than 1,000 under-50s lost their licences last year alone, highlighting that this is a concern for all drivers.
The case of Joan Barwick, 95, who struck and killed a woman walking her dog near Stourbridge last year, has been cited as an example of the need for stricter checks.
Drivers must renew their licences once they turn 70 and every three years thereafter. The new tests are expected to be implemented as part of a broader road safety crackdown.
