Introducing mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers

The Department for Transport is seeking views on:

• potentially moving away from the current self-declaration system for eyesight standards for drivers aged 70 and over
• introducing mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers as part of the driving licence renewal process

In Great Britain, the entitlement to drive expires at the age of 70. Once drivers reach 70 years of age, they must renew their driving licence and, thereafter, at most every 3 years.

To renew their entitlement, they must make a legal declaration that they can meet the eyesight standards required to drive and confirm whether they have any listed medical conditions.

Vision is a critical component of safe driving and ensuring that older drivers can meet the minimum standards required for driving directly addresses a key factor in road safety.

See this consultation in Welsh.