DVLA rules that older drivers must follow and when to reapply for licences

24 November 2023 , 09:44

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Drivers must reapply for their licences after 70 years old (stock image) (Image: No credit)

There are specific rules that older drivers must adhere to, including reapplying for their licences once they hit 70.

This is a topic of ongoing debate, with some suggesting stricter criteria or even a retest for older drivers over safety concerns and as the UK's population ages, this discussion is set to heat up.

Despite no legal age limit for driving, licences do expire at 70, requiring renewal to ensure road safety. The DVLA sends out a D46P application form 90 days before a driver's 70th birthday and every three years after that.

If the form doesn't arrive, it's crucial to contact the DVLA, as driving with an expired licence is illegal. As Olderdrivers.org.uk warns: "If you do not renew your licence, you will not legally be allowed to drive after your 70th birthday."

"If you carry on driving, your driving licence and motor insurance would not be valid, and you would be committing a serious offence which carries stringent penalties, which could include a heavy fine and having your car seized by the police."

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As we get older, we are more likely to develop health issues that might affect their ability to drive. Any condition that could impact driving must be reported to the DVLA. In some cases, the DVLA may decide someone is too risky to stay on the roads.

Conditions that must be reported include dementia, insulin-treated diabetes, Parkinson's, epilepsy and any conditions affecting the eyes. Age UK says: "If you've developed a medical condition or disability that could affect your driving, you must tell the DVLA even if you're not yet due to renew your licence. This also applies if your condition has worsened since your licence was issued."

"You might be worried that you'll lose your licence if you tell the DVLA about your condition but this isn't usually the case. It's a legal obligation for you to declare certain conditions to the DVLA."

"If don't declare a medical condition that affects your driving, you could be fined. And if you have an accident where your health condition may have been a factor, your insurance might not cover you."

"After you've declared a medical condition to the DVLA, they may: make a decision about whether you can continue to drive based on the information you provide; with your permission, contact your GP or consultant or arrange for a local doctor to examine you; ask you to take a driving assessment, driving appraisal or eyesight test."

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Richard Guttridge