The College of Optometrists and Association of Optometrists respond to reports of proposed eye tests for drivers over the age of 70
The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists welcome reports of the government’s proposals to introduce mandatory eye tests at licence renewal, every three years, for drivers over the age of 70.
The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists have consistently called for a change to the law to help make our roads as safe as possible.
Both bodies have repeatedly urged reform to UK driving law, with calls that include:
A mandatory requirement for all drivers to submit evidence of a recent eye test at initial licence application and at every renewal – every 10 years and then every three years from age 70
Increased public awareness of the importance of regular eye tests between renewals, recommended every two years or as advised by their optometrist, to ensure drivers continue to meet driving standards.
Daniel Hardiman-McCartney MBE, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists, commented, “Requiring an eye test when people renew their driving licence is a simple and practical step that would support road safety and improve the nation’s eye health. Introducing mandatory eye tests for the over 70s every three years aligns with the increase in age-related eye conditions and deterioration in eyesight. A more robust implementation of the UK’s current vision standards for driving, requiring small changes to existing legislation, would have a considerable impact on reducing avoidable collisions and making the roads safer for all. Importantly, regular eye tests would also help detect problems earlier so that more people, including older drivers, can drive safely for longer, while also preventing avoidable sight loss.”
Dr Peter Hampson, Clinical and Policy Director at the Association of Optometrists, said, “Introducing compulsory eye tests for the over 70s, every three years, is a vital step forward in modernising road safety, preventing avoidable vision-related tragedies.
“Sight often deteriorates gradually, meaning drivers may not realise their vision no longer meets legal standards. Even small changes can cause drivers to react slower and increase the risk of serious collisions.
“This simple, change to the law would bring the UK into line with much of Europe and deliver a fair, consistent system where drivers’ eyesight is checked by qualified professionals. The public support for reform is clear, and will be a decisive move in making UK roads safer for everybody.”
Recent research among 2,000 UK adults from The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists found seven in 10 people support calls for the introduction of mandatory eye tests for motorists at both driving licence application and renewals.
Eye tests across the UK are funded by the NHS for everyone aged over 60. Some other groups are also eligible for NHS funded eye tests in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and everyone in Scotland can access NHS funded eye tests.
