Overview
- The Department for Transport ran a consultation that closed in mid‑May on replacing the current self‑declaration at age 70 with mandatory tests and promised a response within three months.
- Options under active consideration include eyesight tests at licence renewal every three years, more frequent testing at higher ages such as 75, 80 or 85, and possible cognitive screening for some older drivers.
- The DfT is also exploring who would deliver tests, with models ranging from NHS sight tests and private opticians to bespoke test centres or trained non‑clinical staff.
- Proposals would allow or require health professionals and opticians to report unfit drivers to the DVLA, which raises legal and practical questions for clinicians and for people who currently get free NHS sight tests through some DWP benefits.
- The push for change is driven by safety evidence, including a 2025 coroner’s report citing fatal crashes linked to poor vision among older drivers, and ministers now led by Prime Minister Andy Burnham will decide next steps when the government response is published.