Introducing mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers

From:: Department for Transport
Published: 7 January 2026

Summary

Seeks views on the proposals to introduce mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers in Great Britain.

This consultation closes at
11:59pm on 31 March 2026

Consultation description

The Department for Transport is seeking views on:

potentially moving away from the current self-declaration system for eyesight standards for drivers aged 70 and over
introducing mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers as part of the driving licence renewal process

In Great Britain, the entitlement to drive expires at the age of 70. Once drivers reach 70 years of age, they must renew their driving licence and, thereafter, at most every 3 years.

To renew their entitlement, they must make a legal declaration that they can meet the eyesight standards required to drive and confirm whether they have any listed medical conditions.

Vision is a critical component of safe driving and ensuring that older drivers can meet the minimum standards required for driving directly addresses a key factor in road safety.

Documents