Parliament petition calls for tests for older drivers
A new Parliament petition could see motorists over the age of 60 have to take driving tests to remain on the road.
As it stands, drivers do not have to take any further tests as they get older. They simply apply for a new licence when they turn 70 and report any medical conditions to the DVLA.
In most cases, new licences are renewed without the need for medical tests.
However, the petition is calling for everyone to face an assessment from their 60th birthday. The idea is to improve road safety by identifying drivers who may no longer be fit to be behind the wheel and either improving their capabilities or revoking their licences.
The poll, which will run until the middle of June, was created by Megan Spear.
She said:
“We think at the age of 60 everyone should have to redo their driving test as many road accidents involve an older driver. I believe it would be safer for everyone if people redid they’re driving test age 60 and dangerous drivers get taken off the roads.”
The petition comes after a survey by Carmoola which found 36% of 2,000 people questioned support the idea of older drivers having their licences revoked. Five per cent believed licences should be revoked for drivers when they turn 50, eight per cent believed that licences should be revoked for 60-year-olds, and 11% suggested the age should be 70.
