Tue, 06 Jan 2026

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 Drivers over 70 to face eye tests every three years

The move is part of the government's new road safety strategy, which plans to reform driving laws in Britain.

* Drivers over 70 will have their vision checked every 3 years under new plans
* Nearly a quarter of drivers killed in 2024 were aged 70 or older
* Current law requires drivers to be able to read a number plate from 20 meters away, but does not require regular health checks
* NHS eye tests are free for over-60s across the UK
* Some groups, including those with certain medical conditions, may also be eligible for NHS-funded eye tests
* Experts say that even small changes in vision can increase the risk of serious collisions
* The new law would bring the UK into line with much of Europe
* Measures to protect older people who have surrendered their licenses are also needed, according to experts.
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