Millions of Brits face driving ban as ‘cognitive’ tests could become compulsory

Elderly drivers could be banned from getting behind the wheel if they can't pass tests to prove they still have the eyesight and cognitive ability to be driving a car.

That's according to measures the government are considering introducing as part of their road safety strategy as their consultation into some of the things they could introduce ended yesterday (11 May).

In the UK the entitlement to drive expires at the age of 70 and once drivers get that old they've got to renew their licence every three years, and according to The Sun there are around six million Brits who have to do this.

Elderly Brits have to make a legal declaration they can meet the eyesight standards required to keep getting behind the wheel and list any medical conditions they have, though they don't currently have to prove their eyes are as good as they declare them to be.

Concerns over the self-declaration system where it's up to the driver to tell the DVLA if they're unfit to drive could be answered as the government is considering introducing mandatory eyesight tests for drivers over 70.

Brits over 70 currently have to get their licence renewed every three years, and it's on them to self-report if their eyesight or mind isn't up to driving (Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)

Britain's older motorists would not be allowed to just say they were sure their eyesight was still good, if mandatory testing was brought in they'd have to prove it.

Drivers have also been consulted on the possibility of undergoing cognitive tests to ensure the mind behind the eyes is still sharp enough in old age to be in charge of a car.

At the beginning of the consultation Minister for Local Transport Lilian Greenwood said: "While this consultation is focused on the mandatory eyesight testing of drivers aged 70 and over, we also recognise that more will need to be done to address wider health conditions associated with an ageing population and the increase in older drivers predicted.

"Consideration will be given in the future to other fitness to drive measures, such as cognitive assessments.

"I want to support drivers as they become older. I recognise that having a driving licence is a lifeline for many and provides independence and freedom.

The government is considering making eye tests mandatory, and has also looked at the possibility of compulsory cognitive tests (Getty Stock Photo)

"However, we need to ensure older drivers can continue to drive safely as long as they are fit and healthy to do so."

The BBC reported at the beginning of the consultation that government figures show almost one in four drivers killed on the UK's roads were 70 or older.

You can be fined up to £1,000 if you don't tell the DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving and you can be prosecuted if you end up in an accident.

Having cognitive problems that impair your driving count as one of these conditions.

The Alzheimer's Society says that people with dementia can be allowed to continue driving if they tell the DVLA, get tested and are issued with a new driving licence which they'll typically have to get renewed after a year.