The UK Department for Transport (DfT) is considering new regulations that would require motorists aged 70 and over to undergo compulsory eyesight tests every three years to maintain their driving licences. This proposal, part of a broader road safety initiative, has raised concerns that many elderly drivers could lose their licences and, with it, access to essential forms of photo identification.
Currently, drivers over 70 self-certify their vision and fitness to drive. However, recent collision data and warnings from optometrists have prompted the government to rethink this approach. Nearly one in four drivers killed on UK roads in 2024 were aged 70 or above, highlighting the pressing need for stricter vision standards among older drivers.
A key worry emerging from the proposal is that those who fail the eyesight test—and consequently lose their licences—may find themselves without valid photo ID. Many older adults do not maintain passports, often due to reduced travel abroad. This lack of alternative identification could threaten their ability to access vital services, such as banking.
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In a parliamentary exchange, Labour MP Andrew Ranger asked what measures the government is taking to ensure that over-70s losing licences due to eyesight issues can still obtain acceptable identification. Lilian Greenwood, Parliamentary Under-Secretary at the DfT, responded by emphasizing that a driving licence’s primary purpose is to confirm driving entitlement, not to serve as proof of identity. She noted that medical standards must be met to hold a licence, and those who do not qualify cannot retain one solely for ID purposes.
To address these concerns, Greenwood pointed out that Local Authorities provide a Voter Authority Certificate, a paper document with a photo that can serve as identification for those without a driving licence. Applicants can find more information about this option on the government’s official website.
The DfT’s consultation aims to replace the current self-declaration system with mandatory vision testing during licence renewals at age 70 and beyond. The government stresses that maintaining vision standards is critical to road safety and that this step would help prevent accidents involving older drivers with impaired sight.
The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists have both warmly welcomed the consultation. Dr. Gillian Rudduck, President of the College of Optometrists, called for further measures, including mandatory sight test evidence at licence application and renewal intervals aligned with age-related vision changes. Adam Sampson, CEO of the Association of Optometrists, highlighted the human cost of eyesight-related accidents and supported the introduction of routine sight testing as both a necessary and proportionate safeguard.
As the consultation proceeds, it remains to be seen how the government will balance road safety improvements with ensuring that older adults do not lose access to vital identification documents.