Printer friendly page

RSOs support five yearly tests for drivers

The majority of road safety professionals would support the introduction of five yearly cognitive and eyesight tests for all drivers, not just those over the age of 75.

That's the outcome of an informal survey conducted on this newsfeed last week, in response to the Driving Instructors Association (DIA) suggesting that these tests should be available, or even compulsory, to all drivers. 

The DVLA is looking into introducing these tests for motorists aged 75 and over.

"In our informal survey, 97% of respondents supported these tests for older drivers, and 88% supported testing all drivers in this way," says newsfeed editor Nick Rawlings. "Although the number of respondents was small, the result is so strong that it is probably safe to assume that the vast majority of all road safety professionals would support these tests."  

Under the current system all drivers must renew their licences at the age of 70 and then every three years - but there is no independent verification of ability. The DVLA says that a final decision about testing older drivers has yet to be made.