For many of us, driving is an essential part of life - from getting to the shops to going to work. So what if someone suddenly took that off of you?

There is no shame in growing old, it happens to us all! Naturally, our abilities in life decrease as we progress through it; our eye sight deteriorates, as does our hearing. Linked with these two things is our reaction time and ability to read the road ahead and identify potential hazards. So, bearing all of this in mind, should we have to resit our driving test and, if so, at what age should this happen? Statistics released by the Department of Transport stated that it is in fact younger drivers who make more of reported accidents, with older drivers being involved in fewer. In 2015, 15.36% of reported accidents involved drivers aged under 24. The percentage of accidents involving drivers aged over 70: 5.96%. Should it really be old drivers resitting?

The Current UK Guidelines

Is there any requirement to resit your test?

The answer here is NO. There is no requirement for drivers to have to resit their driving test when they reach any age. However, when a driver reaches the age of 70, they must apply to the DVLA to renew their licence. This must be renewed every 3 years. This application requires the driver to confirm that they are fit and well to drive, including their eyesight meeting the standard. There is no requirement for a medical examination unless the driver wants to drive medium-size goods vehicles and/or minibus.

You can complete your application online via the DVLA website.

Medical Assessment

Currently, you do not have to go for a specific medical assessment in order to assess if you are fit to drive. The DVLA asks drivers to conduct a self assessment. As mentioned above, our abilities deteriorate with age, so it is very important to be honest. It is not only important to be honest, but illegal not to be! "You could be fined up to £1,000 if you DO NOT tell the DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving. You may be prosecuted if you are involved in an accident as a result."

There is a requirement to surrender your licence if:

your doctor has told you that you must stop driving for 3 or more months

you do not meet the required standards for driving because of your medical condition

The DVLA has a whole list of medical conditions that affect your ability to drive.

Losing your licence can feel like losing your freedom. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can stay on the road for longer.

Taking a driver assessment - This something Pendle Lease recommend to anyone who is concerned about their driving ability, regardless of age. For elderly drivers, it is more than likely that you have been driving for many years. Over them years, the ways of the road would have changed, along with car technology and the law. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents can carry out an Experienced Driver Assessment. There is a charge of £35, but unlike a test it is not a pass or fail, but simply a drive with an experience driver who will give you pointers on how to improve.
Inquire about a Motability vehicle - There are specially designed vehicles out there to help those who are now less able. These can help and improve your driving special adaptations to the vehicle. You can find out more information on the Motability website.