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UK Weighs Mandatory Eye Tests for Drivers Aged 70+ as Consultation Nears Deadline

Fresh DVLA figures alongside police screening point to rising risk among the oldest motorists.

Overview

  • The Department for Transport is taking public views on adding compulsory vision checks to licence renewal for people 70 and over.
  • DVLA data released under freedom of information shows 10,141 licences were revoked or refused since last year for failing eyesight standards.
  • Police roadside checks of 3,010 drivers found 1.7% could not read a number plate, rising to 10.2% for those aged 81 to 90.
  • Options under review include routine tests at renewal, cognitive assessments, and possible duties for clinicians to flag unsafe drivers.
  • Ministers say they want to protect safety without cutting off independence for older drivers, and a government response will follow the consultation.