The Department for Transport is considering introducing mandatory eyesight tests for drivers aged 70 and over as part of the driving licence renewal process, potentially replacing the current self-declaration system. The consultation on the proposed changes closed in mid-May, and the government has promised an update based on feedback within three months, meaning a decision could be announced by mid-August.
Options under consideration
The government is exploring several options to improve road safety outcomes for older drivers and other road users. These include compulsory eyesight tests and cognitive tests at every licence renewal, medical assessments, increasing the involvement of healthcare professionals, or making it a legal obligation for professionals to report patients to the DVLA when they are no longer fit to drive.
One key proposal is conducting eyesight tests every three years for drivers over 70, in line with the current licence renewal frequency. However, the frequency could increase as drivers reach higher age thresholds, with more frequent checks for those in their 80s and beyond.
Background and political context
The consultation, which ended in mid-May, was launched under the government led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Burnham has reappointed Heidi Alexander as Transport Secretary, who wrote the foreword for the strategy and is familiar with the proposed changes. The government will publish a summary of responses and its official response on the consultation homepage, with paper copies available on request.
Heidi Alexander said: "Road safety is fundamental to everything this government stands for. Safer roads underpin our national missions — driving economic growth, enabling greener journeys through active travel, easing pressure on the NHS and ensuring that everyone can travel safely."
Potential impact on older drivers
If implemented, the changes could affect the estimated 5 million drivers aged 70 and over in the UK. Currently, drivers must self-declare their fitness to drive at age 70 and renew their licence every three years. The proposed mandatory tests would add an extra layer of assessment, potentially identifying vision problems that could lead to collisions.
Older drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents due to age-related declines in vision and cognitive function. However, supporters of the current system argue that self-declaration is less burdensome and that many older drivers voluntarily restrict their driving. The consultation aims to balance road safety with the independence and mobility of older people.
Next steps
The Department for Transport will now analyse the consultation responses and prepare a government response. The update is expected by mid-August, with any legislative changes likely to be introduced in the next parliamentary session. Drivers over 70 are advised to monitor the consultation homepage for updates and to ensure their vision is regularly checked, regardless of the outcome.
