Drivers have shown overwhelming support for mandatory eyesight checks for older motorists, according to a landmark study. A new consultation showed serious support for mandatory eye tests for elderly drivers, with more than 80 per cent of respondents backing the idea. The survey, conducted by the Civil Service Pensioners’ Alliance, asked who should report vision problems to the authorities. One member, aged 87, said: “I am 87 and thus very much in the target population, and I thoroughly support this suggestion.” Another said: “I believe that all drivers, irrespective of age, should have mandatory eye tests every two years.”
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Around half of respondents said medical professionals should take responsibility for managing eye tests, while 30 per cent felt it should be up to the driver. And 13 per cent thought family or healthcare staff could also notify the DVLA. But opinions varied on when eyesight checks should begin. More than half of the surveyed detailed how mandatory testing should start at 70, while 12 per cent suggested at age 75, with a small number even recommended starting at 50. There was also debate over how often tests should take place. Most preferred every two years (43 per cent), with annual checks next (30 per cent), and fewer suggested every three or five years. The survey follows the launch of the Government consultation on introducing more safety requirements for older drivers as part of the Road Safety Strategy.Labour detailed how the number of drivers over 70 has risen sharply from 3.9 million in 2012 to 6.3 million in 2025. Experts warned vision often declines with age, sometimes gradually and without the driver noticing. In 2024, there were 1,224 serious or fatal collisions involving drivers over 70, a slight drop from 2023 but up seven per cent compared to 2014. Older drivers were also more likely to be seriously injured or killed due to frailty, even if collisions are less frequent overall. Minister for Local Transport, Lilian Greenwood, said: “We need to find the right balance between ensuring that older people can actively participate in society and retain their independence, whilst at the same time maintaining safe driving on the roads.” Currently, drivers aged 70 and over must renew their licence every three years and confirm they meet eyesight standards, but no formal test is required. The DfT is now considering making eyesight tests mandatory at renewal to improve road safety. LATEST DEVELOPMENTSHMRC unveils major update for petrol and diesel cars launching next weekRoad safety fears mount as drivers struggle with bright headlights impacting thousands of eyesightsHeathrow expansion set to create world’s most expensive car park in blow to thousandsInternationally, several European countries already require vision testing. In Spain, Italy, and Denmark, drivers over 70 must submit medical certificates including eyesight checks, with testing frequency increasing as drivers get older. Regular eye tests also have health benefits. They can detect conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts early, improving treatment outcomes and helping older drivers remain safe on the road longer. The NHS recommends adults have eye tests at least every two years, with free tests available for those over 60 or with certain medical conditions. Police surveys also highlighted the risk. A 2024 roadside screening across England and Wales found that 10.2 per cent of drivers aged 81 to 90 failed a simple number plate test, compared with just 1.7 per cent of drivers overall.Options being explored include using NHS eye tests, private opticians, or specialised testing centres. Officials are also considering who should report the results, with a potential legal requirement for testers to notify the DVLA if vision standards are not met. The Government said it aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries among older drivers while maintaining their independence and mobility. How tests would be funded, through NHS services, private payments, or a mix, will be decided after the consultation closes on May 11. As one respondent to the survey added: “Mandatory eyesight testing is about safety, not punishment. If it keeps one life safe on the road, it’s worth it.”Our Standards:
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