Driving safely in later life

Many people continue to drive safely well into later life. Driving can play an important role in helping people stay independent, maintain social connections, access essential services and remain active within their communities. 

As we get older, changes to our eyesight, health and mobility can happen gradually, often without us noticing. Taking a little time for regular self-checks can help provide reassurance that you remain safe and confident behind the wheel. 

This page brings together information, advice and support to help you continue driving safely for as long as possible. 

Eyesight and driving 

Good vision is one of the most important requirements for safe driving. 

The legal eyesight standard for driving requires you to be able to read a vehicle registration plate from 20 metres away (around five car lengths), while wearing any glasses or contact lenses you normally use for driving. 

Regular eye tests can identify changes in your vision before they affect your driving and provide reassurance that you continue to meet the legal standard. 

Remember 

• Have your eyes tested regularly, even if you do not believe your vision has changed. 

• Always wear any glasses or contact lenses required for driving. 

• Tell the DVLA if you develop an eyesight condition that affects your ability to drive. 

Police can carry out roadside eyesight checks. Drivers who fail to meet the legal eyesight standard may be referred to the DVLA, who can take action regarding their licence. 

Health and medical conditions 

Many people manage health conditions successfully and continue to drive safely. However, some medical conditions may affect your ability to drive and must be reported to the DVLA. 

The purpose of notifying the DVLA is not necessarily to stop you driving. In many cases, the DVLA may simply need further information from your GP or specialist to ensure you can continue driving safely. 

You should inform the DVLA if: 

• You develop a medical condition that could affect your driving. 

• An existing condition significantly changes. 

• A healthcare professional advises that a condition may affect your ability to drive. 

Failing to notify the DVLA of a notifiable condition is an offence. 

Renewing your driving licence after 70 

Once you reach the age of 70, you must renew your driving licence every three years. 

This helps ensure that drivers continue to meet the legal requirements for driving, including eyesight and medical standards. 

The renewal process is free and can usually be completed online or by post. 

When renewing, you may be asked to confirm: 

• That you meet the eyesight requirements for driving. 

• Whether you have any medical conditions that need to be declared. 

• Any information the DVLA may need to assess your fitness to drive. 

Failure to renew your licence could result in a fine and may invalidate your entitlement to drive. 

Self-assessment: How confident do you feel behind the wheel? 

There is no single age at which driving becomes unsafe. The key is recognising changes in your own health, confidence and ability. 

The questions below are designed to help you reflect on your current driving and identify whether it may be worth seeking further advice. 

Ask yourself: 

Vision and awareness 

• Do I struggle to read road signs until I am quite close to them? 

• Have I recently missed road signs, junctions or traffic signals? 

• Do I avoid driving at night because I find it difficult? 

Confidence and driving ability 

• Do I still feel confident driving on busy roads, roundabouts and motorways? 

• Have I experienced any recent near misses while driving? 

• Have passengers expressed concerns about my driving? 

Memory and navigation 

• Have I become lost while driving to a familiar location? 

• Have I repeatedly forgotten where I parked my vehicle? 

• Have I found myself feeling confused on familiar routes? 

Physical health 

• Do I experience pain, stiffness or weakness that affects my driving? 

• Do I struggle to turn my head comfortably when checking blind spots? 

• Do I find operating the pedals, steering wheel or other controls more difficult than I used to? 

Medical conditions and medication 

• Have I started any medication that causes drowsiness, dizziness or blurred vision? 

• Have I experienced a recent medical event such as a stroke, blackout or heart condition? 

• Has a healthcare professional discussed concerns about my fitness to drive? 

What should I do if I answer "yes"? 

A single "yes" does not necessarily mean you should stop driving. 

However, if several of these questions raise concerns, consider: 

• Booking an eye test. 

• Speaking with your GP or healthcare professional. 

• Discussing any concerns with family or friends. 

• Seeking a professional driving assessment. 

• Reviewing whether certain driving conditions or journeys remain suitable. 

The aim is to help you continue driving safely and confidently for as long as possible. 

Keeping your vehicle safe and roadworthy 

Being a safe driver also means ensuring your vehicle is safe and legal. 

Before driving, make sure: 

• Your vehicle has a valid MOT (where required). 

• Your insurance is valid for your intended journey. 

• Your windscreen and windows are clean and free from obstruction. 

• Your tyres are correctly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. 

• Your seat, mirrors and steering position are adjusted correctly. 

Understanding vehicle technology 

Modern vehicles often include features such as: 

• Parking sensors and cameras 

• Cruise control 

• Lane assist systems 

• Emergency braking technology 

• Speed assistance systems 

These features can improve safety when used correctly, but it is important to understand how they work. 

If you are unsure about any technology fitted to your vehicle, consider consulting your vehicle handbook, dealership or manufacturer. 

Travel alternatives and community support 

For some people, there may come a time when reducing or stopping driving becomes the safest option. 

Making this decision can feel difficult, but there are often local services available to help maintain independence and stay connected. 

Depending on where you live, support may include: 

• Community transport schemes 

• Dial-a-Ride services 

• Concessionary bus travel 

• Volunteer driver programmes 

• Hospital transport services 

If you regularly attend medical appointments, your GP practice or healthcare provider may be able to advise on local transport support. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How often should I have my eyes tested? 

Most opticians recommend regular eye examinations, usually every two years unless advised otherwise. 

Does turning 70 mean I will lose my licence? 

No. Most drivers continue to hold a licence after 70. You simply need to renew your licence every three years and continue meeting the legal requirements for driving. 

What happens if I develop a medical condition? 

Many people continue driving with medical conditions. It is important to notify the DVLA where required so that they can determine whether any restrictions or additional reviews are needed. 

Can family members raise concerns about my driving? 

Family members can encourage conversations around driving and road safety. If concerns are raised, it may be worth seeking professional advice, an eye test or a driving assessment. 

Where can I find more information? 

Visit GOV.UK for guidance on eyesight standards, medical conditions and driving licence renewal requirements.