As drivers age, it’s essential to regularly assess their ability to drive safely. While older drivers often have more experience, age-related changes such as reduced vision, slower reaction times, and medical conditions can impact driving performance. In the UK, drivers over 70 are required to renew their licences every three years, and certain health checks may be necessary.
This article will cover the legal requirements for elderly driving, common health concerns, and the checks older drivers should undergo to ensure they are safe and comfortable on the road.
Factors that can affect an older person’s ability to drive
Many older adults continue to drive safely, thanks to years of experience and cautious habits. However, certain age-related changes may impact driving ability. These can include:
- Medication side effects – Some prescriptions may cause drowsiness or slow reaction times.
- Vision changes – Reduced eyesight can make it harder to see road signs, pedestrians, or vehicles.
- Hearing loss – Difficulty hearing sirens, horns, or other important sounds can affect safety.
- Mobility & pain issues – Stiffness or pain may make it challenging to steer, brake, or check mirrors.
- Memory impairments – Confusion or disorientation may increase the risk of getting lost or making unsafe decisions.
If health concerns are affecting your relative’s driving, it’s important to speak with a GP or pharmacist for guidance. In some cases, vehicle adaptations can help elderly people driving to maintain independence while ensuring road safety.
When should an elderly person give up driving?
While occasional mistakes happen, frequent errors or unsafe driving habits may signal it’s time to stop driving. Here are key warning signs:
- Unexplained vehicle damage – Dents, scrapes, or driveway damage that they can’t explain or haven’t noticed.
- Avoiding driving – Making excuses to avoid driving or refusing to drive others, especially children.
- Poor road awareness – Struggling with right of way, reacting late to other drivers, or inconsistent speed control.
- Confusion & disorientation – Getting lost on familiar routes or reverting to outdated driving habits.
- Overly cautious driving – Driving excessively slowly, hesitating at junctions, or avoiding parking near other cars.
Frequent fines, insurance claims, or complaints from neighbours may also indicate declining driving ability.
Is there an upper age limit for driving in the UK?
In the UK, there is no set age at which a person must stop driving—this decision is based on their ability to drive safely. Many older drivers choose to stop when they no longer feel confident behind the wheel.
As long as your relative does not have a medical condition that prevents them from driving, they can continue as long as they feel capable. However, once they turn 70, they must renew their licence every three years. This can be done for free on Gov.uk.
Getting help and support with driving
For older drivers who want to stay on the road safely, mobility centres offer expert advice and driving assessments for the elderly. These assessments, carried out by trained professionals, evaluate a person’s driving ability and recommend any adjustments that could help them continue driving comfortably and confidently. The goal is to support drivers in maintaining their independence for as long as possible while ensuring road safety.
Who pays for a driving assessment?
- If the DVLA requires an assessment due to a declared medical condition, they cover the cost.
- If referred by the NHS, including by a GP, the assessment is usually free at most centres—contact your nearest mobility centre for exact costs.
- If self-referred, the individual must cover the cost. Some drivers choose this option to check their confidence and ability behind the wheel.
What happens after the assessment?
Once the driving assessment for elderly drivers is complete, the mobility centre provides guidance on the next steps. This may include confirming that it is safe to continue driving, suggesting vehicle adaptations to make driving easier, or, in some cases, recommending that driving should stop if safety is a concern. If a medical condition makes driving unsafe, the DVLA may revoke a licence, but they must provide a medical explanation for the decision.
What to do if your loved one won’t stop driving despite safety concerns
If your loved one is unable to drive safely but refuses to stop, it’s essential to handle the situation with care and patience. Start by having an open and honest conversation about the dangers of unsafe driving. Emphasise that there are plenty of options to maintain independence without risking safety.
Encourage them to consider:
- Driving lessons or refresher training to boost confidence and skills.
- Exploring alternative transport options, like public transport, which could help them retain a sense of independence while ensuring they and other road users stay safe. Many areas offer discounted travel for older adults, such as Senior Railcards or free bus passes. Voluntary driver services or coach trips may also be available.
- Practising with them on public transport to ease any worries or exploring short distance travel alternatives like mobility scooters or adult tricycles.
If they continue to refuse and remain unsafe on the road, it may be necessary to notify the DVLA. While taking their keys may seem like an option, it’s often not a long-term solution, as they may resist or replace their car. If all attempts fail, it could be time to seek guidance from local authorities to ensure everyone’s safety.
A helping hand at home
For 80 years, Prestige Nursing & Care has been trusted by our clients and their families to provide competent and compassionate home care. Our care is focused on improving health and overall well-being, and all in the place people love most – their own homes.
Call us on 0808 239 1525 and our friendly care experts will discuss your care and support needs. You can also fill out our online enquiry form or email info@prestige-nursing.co.uk. We provide impartial guidance and advice so you make the right choice for you and your family.
