"Drivers Aged 70 and Over to Face Vision Tests Every Three Years" ... UK to Revoke Licenses for Those Who Fail

Mandatory Vision and Medical Tests Every Three Years for Elderly Drivers
47% Increase in Accidents Involving Elderly Drivers Since 2010
Calls for a "Conditional Driver's License System" in Korea

A street in London, England. Pixabay

In the United Kingdom, a proposal is being advanced to prohibit drivers aged 70 and older from driving if they fail a vision test.

On August 10 (local time), the British daily The Times reported that the government is undertaking the largest overhaul of road safety regulations in more than 20 years. The new reforms are expected to include mandatory vision tests for drivers aged 70 and above.

Once drivers reach the age of 70, they will be required to undergo a vision test every three years when renewing their driver's license, as well as a medical examination for conditions such as dementia. Until now, the UK has relied on drivers to self-report any decline in driving ability due to vision problems. However, with the increasing number of elderly drivers and the corresponding rise in traffic accidents, authorities are moving to implement new measures.

According to The Times, the number of drivers aged 60 and over who have been involved in accidents resulting in fatalities or serious injuries on UK roads has increased by 47% since 2010. As a result, concerns have been raised about elderly drivers who continue to drive despite medical issues such as deteriorating eyesight.

Rise in Accidents Involving Elderly Drivers in South Korea... Will the 'Conditional Driver's License System' Become a Reality?

In South Korea, as accidents involving elderly drivers increase, there are growing calls for the introduction of a 'conditional driver's license system,' which would allow driving only under specific conditions.

The government currently requires elderly drivers to undergo dementia screening and separate safety education. License renewal is mandated every five years for those aged 65 to under 75, and every three years for those aged 75 and older. In addition, policies have been implemented to encourage license returns, but the actual return rate remains at only 2.2%.

A scene of driver's license renewal education being conducted in Gokseong-gun, Jeollanam-do (photo to aid understanding of the article). Photo by Asia Economy DB

As current policies are deemed insufficient to curb the rise in accidents involving elderly drivers, some are reigniting discussions on introducing a 'conditional driver's license system.' This system would permit driving, but only under certain conditions. It would allow drivers with higher accident risks, such as the elderly or those with specific medical conditions, to drive with restrictions. For example, conditions could include prohibiting nighttime driving, banning highway driving, or allowing only low-speed driving in urban areas.