From 2025 onward, senior UK drivers aged 65 and above are being encouraged to take voluntary driving assessments or refresher training ahead of their DVLA licence renewal.
While no mandatory test is required to keep a licence, evidence suggests driver skills can decline over time—so many in this age group are choosing to proactively assess their ability, boosting confidence and road safety.
Why Are Older Drivers Being Advised to Test Their Skills?
Ageing can affect vision, reaction times, and cognitive coordination—all vital for safe driving. Studies show:
- Older drivers often face increased intersection risks and hazard perception challenges
- Cognitive and visual slowdown can increase the likelihood of mistakes
- But mobility remains essential for independence and mental wellbeing
Organizations like RoSPA and IAM RoadSmart strongly recommend regular driving checks as confidence and safety-building measures.
What Options Are Available to Senior Drivers?
Two main assessments are available for drivers aged 65+:
| Assessment Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Experienced Driver Review | Conducted by IAM RoadSmart or RoSPA, ~1-hour informal drive in your own car, includes feedback and confidence-building advice |
| Driving Mobility Centre Assessment | For those with medical conditions—includes clinician-led medical and in‑car evaluation, suitable for those returning after injury or illness |
Reviews may include hazard-anticipation tests, mobility assessments, and tailored recommendations or training for safer driving.
How Driving Reviews Help With Licence Renewal
UK drivers aged 70 and older must renew their licences every three years, including a self-declaration of medical fitness. While testing isn’t mandatory, voluntary assessments help you:
- Confirm you meet DVLA fitness standards
- Declare medical conditions accurately
- Plan training or corrective actions before renewal
- Avoid unexpected fit-to-drive challenges
If you’re approaching your next licence renewal, a voluntary screen—especially after age 65—can provide clarity and peace of mind. ([turn0search13], [turn0search12])
What Do Assessment Programs Offer?
- IAM RoadSmart Mature Driver Review: A one-hour session on familiar roads, accompanied by a qualified assessor and followed by an honest evaluation report. Drivers often renew every three years in line with licence expiry.
- RoSPA Experienced Driver Assessment: Offers feedback and guidance via in-car review and official report.
- Local Authority or police-led awareness sessions: Many councils and police forces (e.g. in West Mercia) now run free workshops covering how age affects driving and maintaining safety. ([turn0search13], [turn0search5])
These sessions are informal—not pass/fail—but may recommend further training or medical follow-up.
Benefits of Undergoing a Senior Driving Review
- Objective feedback on current abilities, especially hazard perception and vision.
- Confidence boost in knowing you’re safe to carry on driving.
- Early identification of any impairments or safety risks.
- Proper preparation ahead of licence renewal, including medical declarations or GP referrals.
- Peace of mind for families, knowing older loved ones are driving safely.
Signs You’re a Good Candidate for an Assessment
- You’ve noticed slower reactions, difficulty in busy traffic, or uncertainty when turning or reversing.
- You feel less confident during rush hour, poor weather, or night driving.
- You’re approaching your 70th birthday and licence renewal.
- You’re managing health conditions that could impact your driving, such as diabetes, vision decline, or mobility limitation. ([turn0search9], [turn0search12])
How to Book an Assessment
- Visit IAM RoadSmart or RoSPA driving assessment services to find nearby appointments.
- Local councils or police community safety teams may offer free sessions (e.g. West Mercia, Scotland).
- If a medical condition affects your driving, contact a Driving Mobility Centre for clinical evaluation.
- Schedule eye tests and medical reviews prior to licence renewal to meet DVLA standards.
When booking, mention if you’re prepping for a licence renewal or want a confidence check.
Stay Independent and Safe Behind the Wheel
Although UK drivers aged 65+ are not legally required to take a test to keep their licence, the voluntary driving reviews offered in 2025 are a smart way to maintain independence, improve confidence, and prepare for DVLA renewal processes.
With options such as IAM RoadSmart reviews, RoSPA assessments, and local authority workshops, older drivers can make informed decisions about their fitness to drive well into their later years.
Taking one of these assessments is not about proving ability—it’s about maintaining safety, choice, and independence.
FAQs
Do all drivers over 65 now need to take a driving test?
No. The assessments are voluntary. There is no new legal requirement for a test, but they’re strongly recommended to maintain safe driving.
Does the driving review count as a licence renewal requirement?
Not directly. While self-declaration and medical declarations are required at renewal, the review itself is a tool to help confirm you’re fit to renew—and may ease the process.
What happens if the assessment suggests I shouldn’t continue driving?
You receive feedback and recommendations. While not a legal outcome, the report may help you discuss your fitness with family or healthcare providers as part of a planned transition from driving if needed.