Brake concerned about suggestion of raising licence renewal age

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In response to reports the Department for Transport may consider increasing the age at which drivers must renew their licence from 70 to 80, Julie Townsend, deputy chief executive, Brake, said: "It is concerning the Department for Transport is considering raising the age for licence renewal: regulation that's in place for good reason.

"At this age, conditions that can significantly impair your ability to drive safely become much more common, so it's essential we have robust procedures to ensure older drivers are not inadvertently putting themselves and others in grave danger.

"Licence renewal prompts older drivers to check and self-certify they are fit to drive. Brake is calling on government to strengthen fitness to drive regulation to help prevent needless tragedies, such as through compulsory eyesight testing throughout your driving career and health checks for older drivers.

"Brake recommends older drivers visit their GP and have sight and hearing tests at least annually - or sooner if they notice a problem - to ensure they are fit enough to continue driving and not unwillingly putting lives on the line when they get behind the wheel."