Older drivers

Your mind and body go through gradual changes, especially as you get older. These changes can affect your driving – for example, your reactions may become slower, you may tire more easily or your muscles may become weaker.

As you grow older you’ll need to concentrate more carefully on your driving and take care when judging the speed of other traffic.

Speak to your doctor if you’re concerned about whether you’re safe to drive.

For more advice about safe driving, see the Older Person’s Road Safety website and the Still Safe for Drive website from GEM Motoring Assist.

Renewing your licence

Your driving licence will expire when you turn 70 but you can renew it for 3 years, and you’ll need to keep renewing it as long as you keep using it. See GOV.UK to renew your driving licence if you’re 70 or over.

Refreshing your skills

A driving assessment with a qualified driving instructor will help you identify and address any driving problems you have and get you up to date with current laws. Book a test through the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

The instructor will also be able to help you adapt your driving to keep you safe, such as

  • avoiding distractions to  help keep your concentration on the road
  • allowing for slower reaction times
  • planning your route
  • driving defensively.

Surrendering your driving licence

You may find that you eventually have to give up your driving licence. See GOV.UK for information on how to surrender your licence.

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