The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is set to cancel driving licences in 2026 due to specific eyesight conditions, as part of a broader government road safety strategy. This move could lead to higher-than-usual numbers of drivers being removed from the roads, particularly affecting older motorists.
Government Crackdown on Eyesight Standards
DVLA officials have the authority to revoke licences or refuse renewal applications when health conditions, such as poor eyesight, pose a potential safety risk. In recent years, a BirminghamLive investigation revealed that over 35,000 individuals have been banned from driving for eyesight-related issues. Many of these cases involve older drivers, who must renew their licences at age 70 and every three years thereafter.
Mandatory Eyesight Tests for Older Drivers
The government has announced mandatory eyesight tests for older motorists as a key component of its new road safety strategy. This policy is expected to increase the number of licence revocations, as over-70s will likely need to provide evidence of a successful eye test when renewing their licences to continue driving.
Khuram Sarwar, a dispensing optician at Feel Good Contacts, commented on the prevalence of visual correction among drivers. He noted that out of 42 million licence holders in the UK, approximately 34% (over 14 million people) have an "01 Eyesight Correction" code. Sarwar emphasised that as people age, conditions like presbyopia, cataracts, and reduced night vision become more common, potentially affecting driving ability, especially in low-light or unfamiliar situations.
Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Sarwar highlighted that good eyesight is crucial for road safety and that regular eye tests can help identify drivers who may need corrective lenses. However, he cautioned that these measures should be accompanied by clear guidance and practical options to ensure older drivers are not unfairly penalised. Simple steps, such as regular eye exams and using corrective lenses when necessary, can be effective ways to maintain safety on the roads.
The DVLA has stated that it revokes licences or refuses new applications for failing to meet the required eyesight standards. With the upcoming changes, drivers are urged to stay informed about the new requirements and prioritise their eye health to avoid losing their driving privileges.
