DfI statement on plans to make drivers over 70s take eye tests

The Department for Infrastructure also recently launched a Fitness to Drive campaign in which a 72-year-ol woman told of her surprise at finding out she needed glasses

The Department for Infrastructure said they are “aware of plans” for the UK government to make eye tests mandatory for drivers over the age of 70.

England and Wales are reportedly set to introduce a new road safety strategy in the autumn, which comes after an inquest was made into four road deaths caused by drivers with failing eyesight.

Plans are also in place to reduce the drink-driving limit and to introduce penalty points for passengers not wearing seat belts.

The Department told Belfast Live that, “we must all take personal responsibility to make using the roads safer.”

A DfI spokesperson said, “The Department is aware of the UK government’s plans to update its Road Safety Strategy, including consulting on the potential for over-70s to take compulsory eye tests.

“All applicants for Northern Ireland driving licences are required to make a declaration as to their fitness to drive.

“Licence holders are also legally required to inform the Driver and Vehicle Agency if, during the period of validity of a licence, they develop any new medical condition, or if they suffer a deterioration in a previously disclosed condition, including eyesight, that may affect their ability to drive safely.

“Officials will also monitor any proposals and consultations from the UK government on lowering drink-drive limits when they are published.

“The Road Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2030 was published on the 12 September 2024 and is supported by an Annual Action Plan, focused on reducing the number of road deaths here.

“As part of its agreed strategic interventions under the Action Plan 2024/25, the Department is reviewing existing arrangements and options to introduce a lower legal alcohol limit applicable to all drivers. Any proposed change will be subject to public consultation in due course.”

The Department for Infrastructure also recently launched a Fitness to Drive campaign, as a reminder to older drivers to follow the right steps in the event of illness or eyesight issues.

As part of the campaign, 72-year-old driver Anne Flanagan received the news that she needed glasses to drive, which she said was a “complete surprise.”

She said: “I’ve always been very aware of the personal responsibility I have when I get behind the wheel of my car and turn on the ignition.

“That personal responsibility came into sharp focus recently when I had an eye test and was told I needed glasses for driving – news that came as a complete surprise to me.

“Naively, I had assumed my eyesight for driving was just fine. Yet I can’t believe the improvement those glasses have made. My long distance vision is now much sharper, and I’ve noticed a significant difference when driving in bad weather or very bright conditions; everything is so much clearer.

“We often hear about younger drivers, but each of us who gets behind the wheel, including older and experienced drivers, has a responsibility to make our roads safer.”

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