Should Older Drivers Have to Re Sit A Driving Test

At the moment on ”Should Older Drivers Have to Re Sit A Driving Test” –

legally the answer is no.    

As it stands the UK rules for older drivers are in line with rules that govern the rest of the EU.  There has been no news as of yet as to what may change after Brexit so look out. 

You’re only required to re apply for your driving licence at the age of 70 and re apply every 3 years thereafter. 

Here’s a link to the  DVSA self assessment renewal form.  

However – 

If you are over 70 and want to drive a minibus or medium sized goods vehicle you would require a medical examination.

Follow this link for the self assessment medical form

What to Do Now

Why not arrange an independent assessment of your fitness to drive or driving skills if your unsure whether or not your health is affecting your driving ability .  This could be through – 

• A health professional
• Your local GP
• An experienced driving instructor (ADI)

For and Against – Should Older Drivers Have To Re Sit A Driving Test

For – 

As we age there’s no doubt our observations, stamina, physical ability and anticipation skills decline.  At the moment before any action is taken, a driver would have had to committed a driving offence which must of been witnessed by police traffic patrol officer.

Hence they have to have put themselves and others in danger before any action is taken.

Have a look at some of the recommendations from our top driving instructors (ADI’s) below – 

• On licence renewal (70 years old) you must provide an eyesight examination via a reputable optometrist.
• A Medical from their local doctor to confirm their mental and physical fitness are up to scratch for driving.
• An assessment of their driving by a qualified driving instructor (ADI).  

If a driver failed an assessment by the (ADI) they should then be trained and required to sit another driving test.

Hopefully as our loved one age we can keep an eye on their driving ability and flag up any dangers or concerns we may have. 

Nevertheless not everyone will have people around them that are watching out for this therefore something needs to be done to keep an eye on things.

Against – 

Statistically it would suggest that older drivers pose no real significant threat to themselves or other motorists.  Especially when compared to say – the 17 to 24 year old age groups.

Over the Age of 60

• 165 killed in road accidents
• 1,351 seriously injured
• 8,433 slightly injured

Compared to the 17 to 24 age range in the same time period

• 2,125 killed or seriously injured
• 18,380 slightly injured

Obviously there are other factors that need to be taken into consideration when comparing statistics related to fitness.  For example amount of mileage, time of day and what passengers younger people have in the car. 

But in spite of this the results show older drivers cause less accidents than younger motorist and have lower crash rates than other age groups.

Why?  Possibly – 

1. More experience on the road
2. Time of day they choose to drive (avoiding rush hour due to being retired) 
3. Being more careful and wiser 
4. Not having as many distractions in the car (phone, IPad, Radio, younger passengers, children)
5. A better journey plan (generally slower pace and not rushing)

What Are Your Thoughts on – Should Older Drivers Have to Re Sit a Driving Test

Comparing the decline in observations, stamina, physical ability and anticipation skills against the general safer behaviour of older drivers.  There are a few points to consider.

If you have an older relative still driving there’s no doubt an assessment lessons, eye sight checks and a medical examination are a great ideas. 

As to whether they should have to take an additional driving test however the statistics would suggest that the older age range pose no more significant danger out on our roads. 

The advanced motoring organisation ROSPA even believe re – testing would have negative effects on individuals health and well-being.  These effects would be significant enough to outweighing any benefits to society that might be gained through testing.

If your worried about any older family members driving why not organise an assessment lesson with a friendly instructor here.

If you have any opinions or comments we would love to here from you below.