Hundreds of older motorists across the UK have potentially been driving illegally after failing to renew their driving licences upon turning 70, a new investigation has uncovered.
Significant Rise in Licence Renewal Failures
Figures obtained from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) by BirminghamLive show that a total of 2,839 drivers did not apply to renew their licences when they reached the milestone age over the last three years.
This issue has seen a dramatic increase, with the numbers jumping to 1,226 this year from just 523 in the previous year.
While some of these individuals may have consciously decided to stop driving, it is likely that a significant number have continued to use the roads with expired licences, breaking motoring laws in the process.
The Legal Requirements for Older Drivers
Under current UK law, all motorists must renew their driving licence when they turn 70 and then every three years thereafter.
The purpose of this rule is to help ensure that any emerging health conditions which could impact driving ability are properly declared and assessed.
The DVLA typically sends reminders to drivers well in advance of their 70th birthday, informing them of their legal obligation to renew. During the renewal process, individuals must declare any relevant medical conditions.
Government Considers Tighter Safety Measures
This discovery comes as the Government is reportedly considering tightening the rules for older drivers by introducing mandatory eyesight tests as part of the licence renewal process.
This proposed change would form part of a new road safety strategy and could require drivers to provide proof that their vision meets the required safety standards.
The potential policy shift follows revelations that over 35,000 drivers have been barred from driving over the last three years due to eyesight-related conditions.
A DVLA spokesperson confirmed the agency had revoked licences or refused new applications where individuals failed to meet the mandatory eyesight standards.
