Drivers over 70 may face a second mandatory test on top of eyesight checks after a Labour Party government consultation. Elderly drivers could be required to undergo mandatory eyesight laws as well as cognitive tests.
The consultations, launched as part of the Road Safety Strategy, are set to end later today. Most European countries already require driving licence applicants to undergo a vision assessment either at first application or renewal, typically carried out by optometrists, ophthalmologists, or general practitioners.
Consultation on Cognitive Testing
The Labour government is consulting on whether to follow European Union states in implementing stricter rules. This comes amid concerns that elderly road users' eyesight could deteriorate, risking safety on the roads. Tellingly, the consultation is also looking at cognitive testing alongside eyesight requirements.
Lilian Greenwood, Local Transport Secretary, said: "Consideration will be given in the future to other fitness to drive measures, such as cognitive assessments. I want to support drivers as they become older. I recognise that having a driving licence is a lifeline for many and provides independence and freedom. However, we need to ensure older drivers can continue to drive safely as long as they are fit and healthy to do so."
Proposed Measures
The plan includes mandatory eyesight tests or cognitive assessments at licence renewal, medical assessments, increasing the involvement of healthcare professionals, or making it a legal obligation for healthcare professionals to report patients to the DVLA when they are no longer fit to drive.
The consultation document adds: "While this consultation is focused on the mandatory eyesight testing of drivers aged 70 and over, we also recognise that as the population ages, more will need to be done to address the challenges this poses and consideration will also be given in the future to other fitness to drive measures, such as cognitive assessments."
Driver licensing is a reserved matter in respect of Wales and Scotland (but not Northern Ireland), so any licensing changes would apply to England, Scotland, and Wales.
