Over a million motorists aged over 80 on Britain’s roads

According to the latest figures released by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), there are more than 1 million drivers aged over 80 on Britain’s roads. In total, there are 121 motorists aged over 100 that still hold a driving licence, including two 105-year-olds and one 106-year-old woman who are still behind the wheel.

The UK Driving Test was introduced in 1935, so some of these motorists are unlikely to have ever taken a Practical Driving Test. At present, motorists are required to renew their licence at the age of 70 and then every three years after that. However, they do not need to undergo a medical examination, but their doctor is obliged to inform the DVLA if they believe a patient should not be driving.

Re-training for older drivers

Both the current and previous Government have resisted calls for compulsory retesting of older motorists. There have been calls for older frail motorists to be banned from motorways, while still being allowed to drive on their local roads.  Other proposals from motoring groups have included using larger letters on road signs to make them easier to read.

Safer Drivers

However, it is also important to remember that while the elderly are more likely to sustain serious injuries in a crash, statistics also suggest they are some of the safest motorists on the road with an accident rate three times lower than that of novice drivers aged 17-19.

About the 1935 Driving Test

The Ford Motor Company created this video to let drivers know what to expect on their test.

The first person to pass the test was a Mr. J Beene which cost the equivalent of £0.37.5 in today’s money!