The Andy Burnham government is considering proposals to revoke driving licences from motorists born before 1957, as part of its Road Safety Strategy. The Labour Party government is still reviewing feedback from five consultations, one of which explored mandatory eyesight checks for drivers over 70 when they renew their licences.
Consultation and timeline
The plans were unveiled in January, and the consultation on eyesight checks ended in mid-May. The government promised an update within three months, meaning decisions from Mr Burnham, the Makerfield MP, are expected imminently. Any changes are unlikely to be implemented until next year, with Parliament in recess and the Autumn Budget scheduled for October 28.
If changes begin in 2027, road users born before 1957 would fall under the new rules. The strategy document, authored by Heidi Alexander, states: "In 2023, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) launched a call for evidence seeking views on the current legislative basis for establishing whether an individual is medically fit to drive."
Policy options and safety measures
The Department is reviewing the effectiveness of the current self-declaration system and recommendations from recent coroner inquests. Several policy options are being explored to improve safety outcomes for older drivers and others on the road. The government is consulting on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70 and will develop options for cognitive testing for older drivers.
These measures aim to reduce deaths and injuries involving older drivers without unnecessarily restricting their mobility and personal freedom. The government will continue to work with the National Police Chiefs’ Council to highlight the importance of regular police roadside eyesight tests for all drivers. Drivers who fail to meet minimum eyesight standards will have their licences revoked by the DVLA.
Reactions and impact
The threat of revoked licences risks alienating older motorists who rely on their cars for independence. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: "We are taking decisive action to make our roads safer for everyone, from new drivers taking their first lessons to older motorists wanting to maintain their independence." The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists (AOP) jointly welcomed the proposals to introduce mandatory eye tests for older drivers.
