Drivers over the age of 70 may have to 'stop driving altogether' ahead of new eye test rules being considered by the government. Under current DVLA regulations, motorists aged 70 and over—those born before 1955—must renew their driving licence every three years, unlike younger drivers who renew every decade.
Data from the Department for Transport reveals there are now 6.2 million licence holders aged 70 and above across Great Britain. Road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist is sponsoring an event later this month featuring a keynote address from Professor Charles Musselwhite of Aberystwyth University, who will discuss the 'five patterns of adjustment in older adults who stop driving'.
Conference aims to support older drivers
The event will bring together road safety professionals and others committed to helping mature drivers maintain their independence while enhancing safety. A strong attendance is expected, with more than 110 people already registered. Registration remains open until 27 April.
James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM, said: 'Older drivers make a huge contribution to safer, calmer roads, but we know that the point at which driving has to change—or stop altogether—can be daunting and deeply personal. This conference is about listening, learning and making sure every older road user feels supported, respected and safe.'
Government consultation on mandatory eyesight testing
The Labour Party government has launched a consultation on introducing mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70. The government stated: 'The Government will also continue to engage with the relevant regulatory bodies to highlight the importance of healthcare professionals notifying DVLA if their patient is unwilling or unable to notify.'
Other speakers at the conference include Rob Heard MBE, Dr Liz Box, ECM Research & Tanya Fosdick, Agilysis, Dr Carol Hawley of Warwick University, Professor Richard Cuerden of TRL, and Nigel Lloyd-Jones from the Older Drivers Forum for Gloucestershire.
