“These assessments are conducted by healthcare professionals, often your GP or a designated medical practitioner. Medical assessments may include vision tests, cognitive assessments, and discussions about specific health conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely.”
Whilst there is no maximum age limit on UK roads, drivers will need to renew their licence every three years after they turn 70 years old in a bid to reduce the risk of accidents.
When reassessing their abilities to drive, some motorists may need to have a medical assessment, particularly focusing on health conditions that could limit their ability to drive.
These include making sure the driver renewing their licence has good eyesight and quick reaction times, with testing typically done by their GP.
In addition to medical assessments, Siobhan also warned older motorists that they may also be asked to take another practical driving test in order to renew their licence.
She added: “In some cases, drivers aged 70 and above may be asked to take a practical driving test as part of the renewal process. This is more common if there are concerns about your ability to drive safely based on your self-assessment questionnaire or medical assessments.
“The practical driving test is similar to the test taken when obtaining your initial driving licence. It assesses your ability to operate a vehicle safely in various road and traffic conditions.”
Whilst most drivers can keep their licence by simply sending off the renewal form, if the DVLA has concerns over their safety behind the wheel, the applicant may be required to take another test.
Much like the standard practical driving test that is taken to initially obtain a licence, this is done to assess how a motorist reacts in a certain number of scenarios typically seen on the roads.
Whilst it could be nerve-racking, it is important that drivers take all necessary measures if they wish to stay on the roads, else they risk complications including a fine of up to £1,000 and up to six points on their licence.
