Should Seniors Be Retested?
Retesting older drivers isn’t about punishment—it’s about proactive safety. Just as pilots, doctors, and other professionals undergo periodic evaluations, it’s reasonable to suggest that drivers responsible for their lives and others on the road might need to do the same.
Some countries have already taken steps in this direction:
• United Kingdom: Drivers over 70 must renew their license every three years and self-certify their fitness.
• Australia and Canada: Some provinces require mandatory vision or medical tests for seniors.
• Japan: Introduced cognitive tests and even promotes voluntary license surrender with incentives.
• EU Proposal: Suggested drivers over 70 be tested every five years to renew their licenses.
The goal is not to strip away independence but to create a safe, fair, and individualized approach that respects aging drivers while protecting public safety.
What Could the Testing Process Look Like?
A fair retesting method for elderly drivers should be flexible, respectful, and evidence-based. Here’s a possible multi-step approach:
1. Initial Screening
Once a driver reaches a certain age (e.g., 70 or 75), they could undergo a simple screening at license renewal that checks:
• Vision and hearing
• Reaction time
• Basic cognitive functioning
These assessments could be done in clinics, through driving agencies, or even via online tools.
