Driving instructor gives verdict on whether pensioners should be allowed behind the wheel

A driving instructor has given their verdict on whether people over a certain age should be allowed to drive as debate rages over whether people should have to renew their licence once they hit the age of 70.

In recent weeks, there have been reports that Labour and the DVLA might overhaul the driving licence system and bring in new tests for older motorists.

This has sparked a debate about whether this is an example of ageism,or a government thinking about the safety of all road users by taking into account the natural decline of driving ability as someone passes through their seventies into their eighties.

The campaign, led by lawyers at Hugh James Solicitors Siobhan Thomas, has called for changes to the system to take into account one of the consequences of an ageing population – the increase in older motorists on the roads.

In response, driving instructor for RED Driver Training, Rob, has given his verdict on whether the laws need to change. He said: “I believe that as long as you are in good health and your eyesight meets the requirements then anyone of pension age shouldn’t have to retake their test.

“It is a requirement to renew your licence from the age of 70 and declare you are ‘fit to drive’. If in doubt seek medical advice so you can ensure you are contributing as a safe driver.”

Despite his view that a driver in good health should not be prevented from driving as long as they are healthy and can see well, Rob caveated that there should be some form of driving assessment to make sure one’s driving capabilities are still there.

He explained: “I do, however, believe that there should be some form of driving assessment every few years (10 years for example) for full licence holders to provide further driver safety education, as there are many drivers on the roads who do generally fall below the standard and present risk to themselves and others.

“It is unlikely this would go through as legislation, but I do feel that the Government and Road Safety agencies/bodies should be more proactive with driver education.”

Rob isn’t the only driving expert to have commented on the matter, with others weighing in on the debate too, including First Response Finance’s Jonathan Such.

Jonathan told BirminghamLive the matter of assessing older drivers had to be handled with sensitivity as, with the decline of public transport services, driving can be one of the few ways people can keep some form of independence.

He said: "While it’s important that we all take road safety seriously, particularly as we age, these conversations must be handled with sensitivity and balance. More mature drivers often value their independence and mobility enormously and for many, giving up their licence can feel like a loss of freedom.

"People aged 70 and over bring years of driving experience and often remain confident, capable motorists. With upcoming changes to how licences are managed, including the shift to digital systems, it’s vital we don’t inadvertently marginalise more mature motorists.”