Many older drivers hand over their licence due to medical concerns (Image: Getty)
Older motorists may be forced to “give up driving” at the age of 75 due to one important DVLA rule. There is no maximum age to drive in the UK and motorists do not need to take a formal check to prove they are safe on the roads. However, individuals do need to renew their driving licence every three years past the age of 70 and are required to inform the DVLA of any medical conditions that could impact their ability to drive.
Officials can then decide whether or not to renew a driving licence, with some health conditions forcing road users off the roads completely. According to data from the AA, the average age that road users eventually run out of time and give up their licence is around 75 years of age.
The AA says the average age to quit driving sits at 75 years old (Image: Getty)
The AA previously said: “The average age that people give up driving is, according to surveys, 75 years old. It’s important to remember that it may not always be a choice, as certain health conditions mean you’re not legally allowed to get behind the wheel.”
Whether motorists can stay behind the wheel with a medical condition is judged on a case-by-case basis, meaning that a severe issue might not rule road users completely out of action. However, conditions that could lead to a sudden loss of consciousness or a loss of control are considered the most at risk.
These can include motorists suffering with illnesses such as seizures, epilepsy or strokes. Those being treated for advanced cognitive decline such as dementia could also be at risk, as can those suffering with heart issues.
GOV.UK has warned that road users could be fined up to £1,000 if they do not tell DVLA about a condition that might affect their ability to drive safely. After reporting a medical condition, the DVLA may contact a doctor or consultant, arrange an examination or tell road users to take a driving assessment, or will organise an eyesight or driving test.
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GOV.UK adds: “You’ll get a decision by letter. Your application may need further information from a healthcare professional, depending on your condition.”
Many older drivers hand over their licence due to medical concerns (Image: Getty)
Older motorists may be forced to “give up driving” at the age of 75 due to one important DVLA rule. There is no maximum age to drive in the UK and motorists do not need to take a formal check to prove they are safe on the roads. However, individuals do need to renew their driving licence every three years past the age of 70 and are required to inform the DVLA of any medical conditions that could impact their ability to drive.
Officials can then decide whether or not to renew a driving licence, with some health conditions forcing road users off the roads completely. According to data from the AA, the average age that road users eventually run out of time and give up their licence is around 75 years of age.
The AA says the average age to quit driving sits at 75 years old (Image: Getty)
The AA previously said: “The average age that people give up driving is, according to surveys, 75 years old. It’s important to remember that it may not always be a choice, as certain health conditions mean you’re not legally allowed to get behind the wheel.”
Whether motorists can stay behind the wheel with a medical condition is judged on a case-by-case basis, meaning that a severe issue might not rule road users completely out of action. However, conditions that could lead to a sudden loss of consciousness or a loss of control are considered the most at risk.
These can include motorists suffering with illnesses such as seizures, epilepsy or strokes. Those being treated for advanced cognitive decline such as dementia could also be at risk, as can those suffering with heart issues.
GOV.UK has warned that road users could be fined up to £1,000 if they do not tell DVLA about a condition that might affect their ability to drive safely. After reporting a medical condition, the DVLA may contact a doctor or consultant, arrange an examination or tell road users to take a driving assessment, or will organise an eyesight or driving test.
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GOV.UK adds: “You’ll get a decision by letter. Your application may need further information from a healthcare professional, depending on your condition.”