Elderly drivers under the microscope as Europe weighs stricter licence tests
Source: in-cyprus.com
European countries are examining stricter checks and new conditions for licence renewal for elderly drivers. The proposal mainly concerns drivers who have reached their 70th year.
According to a report, the framework under consideration provides that drivers over 70 years old will have to undergo an eye examination every three years, during which their ability to read signs or recognise objects from a specific distance will be checked.
Balancing mobility rights and road safety
The issue of driving by people of advanced age chronically occupies authorities, who are trying to find the right balance between the right to free movement and the need for road safety.
Discussions focus on how conditions for safe driving can be ensured without unjustifiably restricting elderly drivers, who often depend on their vehicle for their daily movements.
The challenge for the competent authorities is to implement fair and effective policies that will protect all road users without depriving older citizens of their autonomy and dignity.
European data show increased accidents
Official statistical data from European countries demonstrate that older drivers are involved more frequently in road accidents, a fact that brings the issue of road safety at advanced ages back to the forefront.
According to the data, over the years a natural reduction in reflexes is observed, as well as a drop in concentration and visual acuity — factors that directly affect the ability to react on the road. At the same time, hearing problems, reduced peripheral vision and delays in estimating distances can significantly increase the risk of involvement in an accident.
Experts point out that, although many elderly drivers demonstrate experience and care behind the wheel, the physical wear of the body makes regular health checks and periodic re-examinations necessary.
These findings have led several European countries to establish stricter rules for renewing driving licences for people over 70 years old, with the aim of preventing accidents and strengthening safety on the road network.
It is noted that, although deaths from road accidents have decreased overall, the percentage of deaths of elderly drivers in the European Union increased from 22% in 2010 to 28% in 2018, according to data from the European Parliament.
Cyprus regulations
In Cyprus, drivers aged over 70 years are required to renew their driving licence every three years, according to the current regulations of the competent authorities.
The procedure requires the submission of a health certificate from a doctor, which confirms that the driver remains capable of circulating safely on the road network.
In certain cases, authorities can also request a driving ability re-examination, beyond the medical opinion, to ensure that the driver fully meets the requirements of safe driving.
If serious health problems that affect driving ability are found, the licence can be suspended or removed, with the driver required to surrender their licence and stop driving.
The aim of these measures is to strengthen road safety and ensure that elderly drivers remain capable of driving responsibly, protecting both themselves and other road users.
Rising numbers of over-70 drivers in Cyprus
Data submitted to parliament by Transport Minister Alexis Vafeades show that the number of drivers over 70 years old has been increasing steadily in recent years in Cyprus.
In 2019, 60,443 drivers over 70 years old were recorded. In 2020, 63,509 drivers. In 2021, 66,992 drivers. In 2022, 70,343 drivers. In 2023, 73,305 drivers. And in 2024, the number increased to 76,514 drivers.
In contrast, drivers under 70 years old are gradually decreasing from 627,087 in 2019 to 582,287 in 2024, according to the same data.
Greece: Three-year renewals after 65, two-year after 80
In Greece, the legal framework provides for special procedures for older drivers, with the aim of ensuring road safety and driving ability.
After completing their 65th year, drivers are required to renew their driving licence every three years, after previously undergoing medical examinations by a pathologist and ophthalmologist.
After 80 years, the procedure becomes stricter and is repeated every two years, with additional evaluation by an otolaryngologist and neurologist or psychiatrist, to ensure that the driver remains capable of circulating safely on the road network.
If the examinations are successful, the elderly driver can continue to drive legally. If, however, health problems that affect their driving ability are found, the licence is not renewed, and the person loses the right to drive.
UK: Mandatory medical checks under consideration
In the United Kingdom, the government and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) are examining the establishment of mandatory medical checks for drivers over 70 years old—a measure that, if implemented, could lead to licence loss for thousands of elderly people.
According to the proposed framework, drivers of this age category will have to undergo an eye examination every three years, so that their ability to read signs and recognise objects from a specific distance is checked.
Until now, drivers in Britain are required to renew their licence after 70, without medical examinations being provided for. The law leaves it to the driver’s discretion to inform authorities about any health problems that affect their ability to drive.
The possible change comes at a time when several European countries are re-examining the limits and procedures for driving by people of advanced age, with the aim of preventing accidents and improving road safety. Italian authorities are also examining a similar measure.
Read more:
The original article: belongs to in-cyprus.com .
