Should drivers over 70 re-take their driving test?

The topic of older drivers and road safety is one that sparks heated debate.

There is an increase in people worried about relatives continuing to drive and a rise in licences being revoked means action needs to be taken. The number of people contacting the DVLA worried about a driver’s ability behind the wheel is rising too.

In the UK, drivers over 70 are required to renew their driving licence every three years, but there is no mandatory test to assess their skills or reactions. A series of new proposals could bring more assessments, higher costs, and stricter rules for older motorists. For older drivers, staying on the road is about more than just renewing your licence. Health issues, from eyesight to mobility, can affect your ability to drive safely,

With more people living longer and staying active into their later years, is it time to revisit this policy?

There’s growing pressure to introduce more regular driving assessments for older motorists to make sure they’re still safe on the road. While older drivers tend to avoid speed-related accidents, they’re 38% more likely to be involved in crashes due to poor observation. The Older Drivers Forum has been pushing for regular reviews to help prevent these types of accidents.

Proponents of re-testing argue that ageing can affect reaction times, vision, and cognitive abilities—factors that are crucial for safe driving. A re-test could help ensure that older drivers are still fit to navigate increasingly busy and complex roads. Statistics from the Department for Transport show that while older drivers are less likely to be involved in accidents than younger drivers, they are more vulnerable when collisions do occur.

On the other hand, critics of mandatory re-testing highlight the potential for discrimination and the importance of personal independence. Many older drivers are highly experienced and pose no greater risk than younger age groups. Instead, they suggest a tailored approach, such as medical assessments or refresher courses, rather than a blanket requirement for a re-test.

As the UK’s population continues to age, the question of how best to balance safety with fairness and independence will remain a pressing issue. Could a compromise, such as a simplified re-assessment every decade, provide a middle ground? It’s a discussion that affects not just older drivers, but all road users.

What do you think? Should drivers over 70 be required to re-take their driving test, or is there a better way to ensure safety for everyone? Should there be an upper age limit for driving?