Recent reports say the UK government is considering a radical shake-up of driving laws in Great Britain, with a new road safety strategy set to be published in the autumn. It looks likely to contain several new measures – including reducing the drink-driving limit in both England and Wales to be in line with Scotland, and penalising drivers with points on their licence for not wearing a seatbelt. However, one of the considerations getting press attention is the potential that motorists over 70 could be banned from the roads if they fail compulsory eye tests when they renew their driving licence.
What’s behind the new plans?
In April 2025, HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire Dr James Adeley sent a report to the Transport Secretary saying there needed to be more concrete action to prevent deaths linked to poor eyesight. The letter noted his findings that enforcement of visual legal standards for drivers was currently insufficient, and notably described the UK’s licensing system as “the laxest in Europe”.
At the moment, the UK is one of only three countries in Europe that allows drivers to decide for themselves whether their eyesight is good enough for the road. This system means drivers can get behind the wheel even when their vision has fallen below legal standards.
The Government appears receptive to Dr Adeley’s suggestions, with one source telling the BBC that the rules "need to be reassessed". That’s led to the consideration of making it compulsory for drivers over 70 to take an eye test when they renew their licence - which they have to do every three years. If a driver doesn’t pass, they will be prevented from driving.
What’s been the reaction?
Critics of the plan have pointed out vision issues aren't limited to the older generations, and younger drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in serious accidents. Edmund King, President of the AA, summed things up as: "When you look at road deaths the big peaks are with young, new drivers and then older drivers."
Others have highlighted the consequences of older drivers losing their licence and being unable to travel. They are looking for greater investment in public transport to prevent isolation for those who no longer have access to a car.
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