Older drivers urged to consider having one regular test to stay on the road

Older drivers have been told to consider going for one regular test to remain safe on UK roads. Experts at IAMRoadSmart urged road users to go for eyesight checks as often as possible because vision "deteriorates" in older age.

A loss of vision can be a major safety concern with motorists at risk of not being able to read road signs and identifying hazards. Motorists are not required to undergo a formal eye test to keep their driving licence in older age despite the potential risks. Instead, the DVLA only warns older motorists to keep them updated of any conditions which could impact their ability to drive.

IAMRoadSmart said: "As we grow older, our eyesight can deteriorate or change - making it harder to see road signs and other road users.

"By having regular eye tests, older drivers can ensure that their eyesight stays within the legal limit to drive, and will make spotting hazards easier."

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) proposed older drivers should have their eyes checked at every licence renewal every three years.

Rob Heard, founder of the Older Drivers Forum, said motorists should think about "going out and getting an assessment" at every renewal.

However, Labour recently shut down the possibility of changing eyesight rules anytime soon.

Liberal Democrat James MacCleary asked the Government if they would make an "assessment of the potential merits of requiring all drivers to complete a DVLA eye test."

However, Lilian Greenwood, Parliamentary Under-Secretary at the Department for Transport, stressed it was a driver's responsibility to ensure they monitored their vision.

She said the Government believes drivers should have their eyes tested every two years but had "no current plans to introduce mandatory eyesight testing of all drivers".

Lillian explained: "All drivers have an ongoing legal responsibility to ensure that they meet the vision standards for driving, which includes being able to read a number plate from 20 metres, wearing glasses or corrective lenses if needed.

"Drivers must notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) at any time of a change in their health or vision which may affect their ability to meet the appropriate standards."