State pensioners above the age of 70 could be hit with major new rule changes within days if stricter eye testing rules are confirmed. A three-month consultation looking into the possibility of tough vision rules will end on May 11.
The consultation has gathered the responses from motorists and industry experts, with the Department for Transport (DfT) confirming that they will publish a summary of the responses soon after the study ends. After this stage, the Government has said it will also publish its response on the homepage for this consultation.
This is the point where officials could confirm what action is set to be taken, including the possibility that mandatory eyesight testing rules could be confirmed. Among the options for change being considered is the introduction of mandatory checks every three years for drivers over 70.
These would be in line with current licence renewal dates, meaning road users would have to check their vision at least every 36 months. The DfT said there is also the option to increase the frequency of eye exams as drivers reach higher age thresholds, for example at 75, 80 or 85.
However, officials have not ruled out that eye checks could start at an even younger age, meaning motorists in their 60s are not completely out of the woods yet.
The DfT explained: “A proportionate approach is needed to balance road safety with individual autonomy. Visual capacity is fundamental to safe driving and age-related eye conditions often develop gradually and can go unnoticed by drivers.”
It is possible that more information on which direction officials will take could be revealed once the consultation ends on May 11.
The DfT adds: “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.
“Therefore, this consultation is seeking views on potentially moving away from the current system of self-declaration for eyesight standards for drivers aged 70 and over and introducing mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers as part of the driving licence renewal process.”
