Eye tests to be required for drivers over 70

UK vision standards for driving are set to be updated to mandate that drivers over the age of 70 must have an eye test when they renew their licence. The new ruling is the result of the Don’t Swerve a Sight Test campaign undertaken by the AOP and is also welcomed by the College of Optometrists. The AOP’s evidence – gathered over several years – formed part of a report into four road deaths that were linked to substandard vision.

Until now, eyesight standards have relied on self-reporting, but making eye tests compulsory in this way will likely reduce the risk of avoidable accidents, injuries and – in the worst cases – fatalities. There are only three countries in Europe allowing self-reporting in this area, and the UK is currently one of them, but that is set to change.

The inquest into the four road deaths in question found that in each case the driver’s eyesight was ‘well below’ the legal standard, and it is this fact that has prompted the change in the law. As well as rooting out over 70s who shouldn’t be behind the wheel, the new regulations will also help with early detection and treatment of any eyesight issues that are arising with older drivers.

One example of a preventable accident is that of 70-year-old Jim Tassell, who was killed in 2021 in a cycling accident involving a driver with vision that was below the legal standard. A test carried out at the scene showed that the 82-year-old driver whose car collided with Tassell was only able to see three metres in front of him. The introduction of compulsory eye tests is less about taking older drivers’ independence away, but more about keeping the roads safer and reducing fatal accidents.

‘The NHS provides free sight tests for everyone over 60, but the take up isn’t always high, so making it compulsory to have one carried out when renewing your driving licence is a good move,’ says Emma Logan, owner of Eyes of Swavesey. ‘Here at Eyes we focus on enhancing people’s eyesight wherever we can, so seeing more over 70s in our practice can only be a positive development.’

Eyes of Swavesey are opticians in Cambridge, and we offer full eye tests as well as glasses and contact lenses, all with the option of a competitive EyePlan. Call us on 01954 231158 to secure an appointment or book online here.