Older drivers over 70 told to undergo one check to | Tech News

Older drivers aged 70 or over might have to undergo one essential check to keep their driving licence and keep on UK roads. Specialists have referred to as on older drivers to undergo “mandatory” eyesight checks to be allowed to stay behind the wheel, with these street customers thought of most at risk.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched a session on introducing eyesight testing guidelines, which might come into impact in 2026. Labour is eager to push forward with the protection replace, requiring anybody over 70 to have a check earlier than securing a DVLA licence renewal. To justify the DfT’s analysis, a report ready by officers acknowledged that optometrists had beforehand referred to as for the introduction of eyesight assessments.

The report reads: “The College of Optometrists produced a report in September 2022 that concluded that drivers may not fully understand their legal responsibility to ensure they meet the vision standards for driving and their personal risks related to eyesight and driving.

“Optometrists who were interviewed as part of the research suggested that it should be mandatory for people who hold a licence to have regular sight checks. This would normalise the conversation about driving and vision, as well as making the roads safer for everyone.”

If it goes forward, motorists could also be required to have their eyesight checked at each renewal, which might be as soon as each three years. However, the DfT stated it has not ruled out “increasing the frequency as drivers reach higher age thresholds”.

Meanwhile, it confused that “consideration could also be given to starting at a younger age”, which means motorists of their 60s could possibly be tied in to any updates. This might see motorists pressured to undertake more common testing as soon as they attain main milestones similar to 75, 80 or 85.

The DfT is anticipated to publish a abstract of responses and (*70*) official Government response as soon as the session closes in March.

The DfT added: “Regular eyesight tests not only help ensure drivers meet the vision standards but also play a vital role in helping to detect various other medical conditions and eye diseases at an early stage. 

“Early detection allows for timely treatment, which can lead to better health outcomes and help older drivers stay on the road safely, for longer, than if left undetected and untreated.”