The new Labour government is facing calls to introduce compulsory driving retests for all motorists once they reach the age of 70. The demand comes from a formal petition launched on the official government petitions website.
Petition Details and Road Safety Aims
The petition, created by Evie Gibbs, explicitly urges ministers to "Introduce mandatory driving retests for drivers over the age of 70." It argues that this measure would enhance safety for all road users, including pedestrians, motorcyclists, and other drivers.
The proposal calls for regular assessments of older drivers' capabilities. These would not be simple renewals but comprehensive evaluations, including:
- Full practical driving retests.
- Checks on reaction times and hazard perception.
- Assessments of manoeuvring ability.
- Comprehensive eyesight examinations.
The Path to Parliamentary Debate
For the government to be obliged to issue a formal response, the petition must gather 10,000 signatures. If it achieves a much higher threshold of 100,000 signatures, the topic will be considered for debate in Parliament.
The petition opened for signatures on 28 May 2026 and will run for the standard six-month period, giving campaigners ample time to reach the initial target. The deadline for signatures is 28 November 2026.
Current Rules for Older Drivers
Under present law, drivers do not have to retake their test at age 70. However, they are required to renew their driving licence every three years thereafter. This process involves making a legal declaration about their health, confirming they are still fit to drive.
If a driver has a developing medical condition or disability, they may be referred for an assessment of their driving ability. Age UK confirms there is no fee to renew a driving licence after 70, whether applying by post or online via the official DVLA website. The charity also warns motorists to avoid unofficial third-party sites, which often charge for this free service.
The petition places the issue of older driver competence firmly on the political agenda, setting the stage for a potential future policy shift aimed at improving road safety statistics.
