As people age, concerns about driving safety often arise, so it's good to know that there are local organisations and resources available to help older drivers maintain their motoring independence. Whether facing a new disability, mobility challenges, or the natural aging process, this updated guide provides valuable insights to ensure elderly drivers can continue to enjoy their cars safely.
In the UK, there is no upper age limit for drivers. However, at the age of 70, drivers must renew their licence every three years. This renewal involves completing a straightforward application form sent by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA or DVA in Northern Ireland) either via post, or you can do it online via the Gov.uk website. This process does not require a new driving test, and as long as drivers remain medically fit to drive, they can continue motoring safely.
For elderly drivers with medical conditions or disabilities that could impact their driving, an assessment may be necessary to ensure continued safety. The DVLA provides a list of medical conditions that may warrant consideration for stopping driving, including poor eyesight, memory problems, mobility issues, and certain health conditions. There’s a full list here on the Gov.uk website.
While none of these conditions are exclusive to older drivers, many are much more common when people reach older age.
Mature Driver Appraisals are optional specialist assessments designed for older drivers to evaluate their driving abilities and ensure road safety. This service is useful for elderly drivers who want to assess their driving skills, refresh their knowledge of the Highway Code and build up their confidence on the road.
These assessments take into account individual needs and concerns, and aim to address specific challenges and provide personalised recommendations to enhance driving safety. Mature Driver Appraisals can be made via relevant driver assessment organisations, such as your local Driving Mobility centre and the organisation Older Drivers, who have compiled this useful list to help you to find your nearest driver assessment centre.
For individuals with disabilities receiving a higher or enhanced rate Mobility Allowance, the Motability Car Scheme offers an excellent opportunity to lease a new vehicle.
Around 700,000 people across the UK currently choose to spend their Mobility Allowance benefit on a new car or Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) leased through the Motability Scheme. The Motability motoring package is included with every leased vehicle, and it includes insurance for up to 3 drivers, regular servicing, breakdown cover, replacement tyre cover, replacement windscreen cover and a huge 20,000 a year mileage allowance.
While there isn’t a strict upper age limit for the Motability Scheme, men and women over the equalised state pension age (which in 2021 increased from 65 to 66) can still lease a vehicle through the Motability Scheme in certain circumstances.
If you receive one of the qualifying Mobility Allowances, you can exchange it to pay for the lease of a brand new car or a WAV regardless of your age.
To join the Motability Scheme you need to receive one of the following government funded Mobility Allowances:
The confusion arises because the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has an upper age limit (the state pension age) for anyone applying for one of these disability-related benefits for the first time.
So, if you are already in receipt of one of the qualifying Mobility Allowances when you reach pension age, you can carry on driving a Motability vehicle.
Unfortunately, the Attendance Allowance cannot be used to lease a Motability Scheme car or WAV.
If you are 66 or older and develop care needs because of a mental or physical disability, you can’t apply for one of the Motability-qualifying Mobility Allowances. You will instead be invited to apply for the Attendance Allowance. The Attendance Allowance (a tax-free, non-means tested benefit) is meant to provide extra money to pay for the care of the claimant, not necessarily their mobility.
If you're considering a vehicle adaptation to make it easier and safer to drive or get into a vehicle, there are many clever adaptations that can be fitted to your vehicle by specialist adaptation firms across the UK.
Adaptations generally fall into 3 categories:
Adaptations to consider include devices like lifts and hoists to help with the loading of mobility scooters and wheelchairs, products like easy to grip steering wheel balls and left foot accelerator that can make it easier to drive, and fitted transfer plates and grab handles that can help when getting into and out of a vehicle.
If you’re unsure about the kind of adaptations you might need, speak to a local adaptation firm or make an appointment to visit a local Driving Mobility assessment centre, where a trained specialist will be able to guide you through all the available options.
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We hope this guide provides valuable insights for older drivers looking to maintain safe and independent mobility. From renewing driving licences and assessing whether to stop driving, to exploring the Motability Scheme and considering vehicle adaptations, we’re here to support you in navigating the roadways with confidence and security.
A version of this article was originally written for the National Careline, who provide help and support to the elderly, their carers and their families.