Data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has revealed that over 600 drivers in the UK are over 100 years old, with the oldest licence holder aged 107. This discovery has raised concerns among experts about the safety implications of older motorists remaining on the roads without stringent medical checks.
As of February 2024, 623 drivers over the age of 100 still hold valid driving licences, highlighting the growing trend of people staying on the road well into their later years. These figures also show a significant increase from 2021 when there were 6,000 fewer drivers aged 100 or older.
While drivers over the age of 70 are required to renew their licences every three years—compared to every ten years for younger drivers—there are currently no mandatory health checks in place for elderly drivers, except for the requirement to meet the minimum eyesight standard.
Andrew Jervis, CEO of ClickMechanic, commented, “While age should not be a barrier to driving, it’s essential that all road users are both mentally and physically fit to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.” He added that while many older drivers value their independence, safety must remain a top priority.
The Freedom of Information request that revealed the DVSA data also found that over 1.8 million Britons above the age of 80 currently hold valid driving licences, further emphasizing the importance of monitoring elderly drivers’ health and fitness to drive.
Drivers are legally required to inform the DVLA of any medical conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, or epilepsy, that could affect their ability to drive. However, there is concern that some drivers might avoid reporting these conditions for fear of losing their independence.
Over the last decade, nearly 647,000 drivers have had their licences revoked due to medical reasons. The DVLA’s records show a rise in medical licensing decisions, with 887,000 decisions made between 2022 and 2023—a sharp increase compared to the years prior.
The topic of elderly drivers has sparked a broader conversation about the balance between ensuring safety on the roads and allowing individuals to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
