Older drivers to see new driving rule change in August - everything you need to know

Older drivers need to be aware of a new rule brought in by the government to reduce the risk of accidents on British roads. The new rule applies to those over the age of 70 who wish to renew their driving licence. Before renewing their licences, drivers above the age of 70 will have to go through a medical assessment to make sure they are fit to drive. This applies to more than five million drivers in the country that are over the age of 70.

The risk of developing diseases such as dementia, glaucoma, cataracts and Parkinson's increases as we get older, particularly as when enter our 70s and the decades following. These conditions can have an effect on our ability to drive safely. To combat these risks, medical assessments have been introduced for drivers over the age of 70 when it comes to their licence renewal. However, not all drivers automatically have to go through this. It only happens when their licence is about to expire and they need to renew it.

Around 90 days before their expiry date, drivers over the age of 70 will receive a reminder from the DVLAtelling them they need to renew their licence. At this stage, they should schedule a health check-up with their GP to check their vision clarity, depth perception, cognitive function and overall physical health.

What happens after the medical check for drivers over 70?

After your examination, your doctor should fill out the official D4 medical form, which will detail whether you are fit enough to drive. Elderly drivers can then submit this form online or via post to the DVLA.

The DVLA will then review it and make a decision. You will either be given a three-year licence renewal or a restricted licence, such as a daytime-only driving licence. Additionally, you could be requested to do a driving test or attend follow-up medical checks.

Which conditions are the DVLA looking out for?

The DVLA is looking for conditions that could hinder your ability to drive safely on British roads. These conditions often develop when people reach an advanced age.

While they do not guarantee that you will be disqualified from driving, these conditions could result in your licence renewal application being rejected.

The conditions being screened include:

• Glaucoma and cataracts
• Dementia
• General cognitive decline
• stroke recovery
• Heart issues
• Parkinson's disease

What happens if health issues are detected?

While your application could be rejected, there are other things that could happen if health issues are detected in your assessment as an over-70s driver. You could be issued a short-term licence of between one and two years. This could be subject to regular monitoring.

Additionally, you could get a restricted licence which only allows you to drive at certain times, typically in the daytime. There could also be the opportunity for reassesment if your health condition improves.