Drivers aged over 70 could soon be required to take an eyesight test every three years to keep their driving licence and remain on the road, under plans being considered by the Labour Government. The Road Safety Strategy has promised to look at introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70, with a consultation held earlier this year.
Currently, older drivers are not required to undergo a formal eye exam to renew their licence, but this could change. The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed that tests are being considered, with checks set to take place every three years, aligning with the existing licence renewal dates for over-70s, who must update their photocard every 36 months.
More frequent tests as drivers age
The DfT has suggested that road users may face more frequent testing as they get older. In a previous statement, the department said: “Areas being explored include conducting eyesight tests every 3 years for drivers over 70 in line with current licence renewal, or increasing the frequency as drivers reach higher age thresholds, for example, 75, 80, 85, etc. The prevalence of eye conditions and the rate of visual decline can accelerate as people get older. Consideration will be given to the timing alignment of the eyesight test and the licence renewal period.”
The final conclusions of the consultation have yet to be released, although many experts have backed the idea. The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists (AOP) have called on officials to go further and make vision testing mandatory for all renewals.
Calls for stricter rules
Campaigners have said that evidence of a valid sight test should be required at the application or renewal stage for all drivers every 10 years, and then every three years from the age of 70. Last year, coroner Dr James Adeley described the current licensing system as the “laxest in Europe”, prompting the DfT to examine the issue.
The DfT previously added: “Regular eyesight tests not only help ensure drivers meet the vision standards but also play a vital role in helping to detect various other medical conditions and eye diseases at an early stage. Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can lead to better health outcomes and help older drivers stay on the road safely, for longer, than if left undetected and untreated.”
