Labour is exploring mandatory eyesight checks and cognitive testing for drivers over 70 as part of its Road Safety Strategy, a move that could affect more than six million motorists on UK roads.
Earlier this year, Labour published the strategy outlining plans to consult on mandatory eyesight checks and cognitive testing for elderly motorists to keep their driving licence. The measures are being considered for older road users above the age of 70 in a bid to reduce deaths and injuries.
Rising numbers of older drivers
According to the DVLA, there are now over six million drivers above the age of 70 on UK roads, up from the 3.9 million recorded back in 2012. There are also concerns that older driver safety is declining, with 24% of car driver deaths involving those over 70 in 2024, up from 22%.
Labour's Road Safety Strategy reads: "To improve safety outcomes for older drivers and others on the road, several policy options are being explored. The government is consulting on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over age 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."
Current rules and consultation
Under current rules, motorists only need to self-declare any medical conditions that may impact their ability to drive. However, coroners have suggested this is no longer satisfactory, with the UK described as having the "laxest" licence system in Europe.
The Department for Transport (DfT) oversaw a consultation into mandatory eyesight checks earlier this year, although a conclusion and final decisions are yet to be published. The report argued that vision checks would be conducted at every licence renewal past the age of 70, meaning every three years.
Possible implementation and next steps
Officials were considering whether eyesight tests could be administered by opticians, the NHS or through bespoke test centres. The DfT added: "As people age, eyesight often deteriorates in visual acuity or sharpness, medical conditions that affect the field of vision are more likely to develop and the ability to recover from glare also reduces."
"This deterioration can occur gradually, sometimes without a person noticing. Without eyesight correction or treatment, it can increase the risk of collisions for older drivers and other road users."
There has yet to be a consultation on any cognitive checks, but these would likely include reaction tests and around hazard perception.
