Calls for new 'mandatory tests' for all drivers over 70 on road safety crackdown

Safety experts have demanded older drivers undergo “mandatory testing” to stay on the road later in life. James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM Motoring Assist, said that "mandatory eye tests need to be introduced” in the UK. Specialists warn that the checks would be done at licence renewal, meaning every three years for any road user over the age of 70.

Under current rules, motorists are not required to check their eyesight before renewing their DVLA licence. Instead, individuals only need to self-certify that their eyesight is safe and effective to remain behind the wheel without any checks to confirm this is true. 

With motorists worried about losing their freedom to drive, many may simply claim they are safe even if they know their vision is not ideal. 

James said: “Mandatory eye tests need to be introduced for everyone at the time of licence renewal. Optometrists should report results directly to the DVLA. 

“But we can’t wait for changes in the law, so let’s also encourage everyone to seek a driver MOT of some sort at licence renewal time.

“Let’s also support initiatives to raise public awareness about the critical role of vision in safe driving, and remind everyone aged over 60 that a great place to start is with a FREE eye test.

“Finally, let’s make clear that this has nothing to do with restricting freedom. It’s all about safer roads, while helping everyone accept that a perceived ‘right to drive’ doesn’t unnecessarily put someone else’s life at risk.”

GEM Motoring Assist is not the first to suggest mandatory eyesight checks were vital for road safety. 

The Older Drivers Forum has also recommended mandatory eye tests and raising the self-declaration age to 75. 

Last month, a leading coroner looking into the deaths of four pedestrians at the hands of older drivers also warned the UK system was the "laxest in Europe”. 

Dr James Adeley, HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire,  stressed that the visual legal standard for road users was "ineffective and unsafe”. 

James added: “Doing nothing means the risk of more avoidable deaths and life-changing injuries remains, caused by people whose quality of vision means they should no longer be driving."