The debate over elderly drivers and road safety in the UK is intensifying as experts call for new laws to ensure aging motorists remain fit to drive. With the number of centenarian drivers reaching a record high in 2023, concerns about safety and the effectiveness of current self-certification rules have reignited discussions about stricter requirements.
A Growing Number of Elderly Drivers on UK Roads
Recent data has revealed that 597 drivers aged 100 and over were still on the road in the UK last year—more than triple the figure recorded a decade ago.
As life expectancy increases and more people remain active into their later years, the issue of road safety for older drivers has come under fresh scrutiny.
At present, UK drivers over 70 are required to renew their license every three years, but they are only asked to self-certify their fitness to drive—without undergoing a mandatory medical or driving test.
Critics argue this system is inadequate, particularly as age-related health conditions such as poor eyesight, reduced reaction times, and cognitive decline can significantly impact driving ability.
Proposals for a ‘Driver MOT’ Rather than Retests
Rather than enforcing full practical driving retests, some experts propose introducing a three-yearly “Driver MOT”, which would involve a basic check-up on reaction speed, eyesight, and awareness.
Andrew Jervis, Co-Founder and CEO at ClickMechanic, explained the challenge of balancing road safety with fairness:
“It’s a tricky balance keeping all road users safe without making older drivers feel like they’re being pushed off the road.”
Jervis also noted that while older drivers are more likely to be involved in fatal accidents, they tend to have fewer accidents overall. He suggested that regular vehicle maintenance habits among older drivers could even make their cars safer.
Meanwhile, Mike Thompson, COO of a leading automotive company, argued that age alone shouldn’t determine driving ability. Instead, he supports regular health assessments and better education on modern car safety systems to help older drivers remain on the road safely.
Public Opinion: Should Senior Drivers Retake Their Test?
Despite expert suggestions for less invasive measures, a recent Road Safety GB survey found that a majority of UK drivers (67%) support mandatory retesting for elderly motorists at a certain age.
The survey revealed that:
- 33% of respondents favored retests between ages 70 and 74
- 49% thought older drivers should retake their test every two or three years
- 79% of millennials supported retesting, compared to just 45% of those over 65
The main reasons cited for stricter rules included concerns over:
- Slower reaction times (64%)
- Sight issues (62%)
- Deteriorating health (52%)
- Reduced attention span (51%)
Addressing Safety Concerns While Supporting Older Drivers
Health conditions that commonly affect elderly drivers include vision and hearing impairments, medication side effects, mobility issues, and memory decline.
These factors can increase the risk of accidents, leading to calls for greater intervention from medical professionals, family members, and authorities.
Currently, third parties—such as doctors, family members, and police—can report concerns to the DVLA if they believe an elderly driver is unfit to drive.
Additionally, Age UK mobility centers offer assessments and support to help older drivers continue driving safely for as long as possible.
