New Driving Requirements for Drivers Over 70 Under Discussion

The European Union (EU) has introduced a new measure to improve road safety by implementing a driving age limit of 75. This regulation officially came into effect in Spain on July 15. Meanwhile, in the UK, a new obligation for drivers over 70 is under debate. In Turkey, similar restrictions for drivers over 70 are also expected, including mandatory periodic health checks and possible revocation of driving licenses after the age of 75 or 80.

Older Drivers and Road Safety Concerns

Reflex loss among elderly drivers is cited as one of the leading causes of traffic accidents. In response, the EU has banned drivers over 75 with a Class B license from driving in Spain. Additionally, routine health checks that were previously required every two years for drivers over 70 are now required starting at age 65.

New Step from the UK

Currently in the UK, drivers over 70 can renew their licenses without undergoing any official tests. They simply declare that they are still fit to drive and apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). However, this system has come under increasing criticism.

A new petition calls on the government to require mandatory eye tests every two years for elderly drivers. The petition, launched by David Powell, highlights how vision problems often worsen unnoticed over time in older individuals.

Call for Mandatory Eye Tests

The petition states:

“We want the government to require mandatory eye tests every two years for all drivers over the age of 70. In cases where a person’s vision falls below the legal driving standard, it should be a legal obligation for GPs or optometrists to notify the DVLA.”

Powell emphasizes that under the current system, the responsibility lies with the individual driver, and argues that this is ineffective:

“There’s currently no mechanism for the DVLA to verify eye test results. Therefore, shifting the responsibility from individuals to experts would make more sense.”

So far, the petition has gathered just over 100 signatures. For an official government response, at least 10,000 signatures are required. To be debated in Parliament, the petition needs 100,000 signatures.

Current Regulations in Turkey

In Turkey, drivers over 65 are already subject to certain additional assessments to remain actively licensed to drive. While there is no official upper age limit for drivers, those over 80 are required to undergo a medical examination every two years.