- UK license renewal every three years after age 70.
- Renewals aim to spot age-related issues: vision, reaction, mobility.
- Over 134,000 drivers aged 90+ on Britain’s roads.
- Romania considers annual renewals; current policy remains ten-year.
In many European countries there is growing discussion about the need for closer monitoring of older drivers, given studies showing an increase in accidents in this demographic. The UK has already implemented a system of more frequent license renewals for elderly drivers.
According to industry statistics, most road accidents are caused by two main groups: young drivers with limited experience and older drivers with decreased physical abilities. While in the past licenses were issued for very long periods, today most countries have adopted a renewal system every ten years for drivers in standard age groups.
British system for elderly drivers
In the United Kingdom, once a driver reaches the age of 70, they must renew their driving license every three years. This measure aims to periodically assess driving ability, given that aging can bring medical issues that affect road safety:
- reduced visual acuity
- slower reaction time
- mobility and coordination problems
- medical conditions that can affect concentration
Worrying statistics in the UK
Earlier this year, Express.co.uk reported that more than 134,000 drivers aged over 90 were on Britain’’s roads. These figures are rising, prompting motorists to question road safety and to call for the introduction of a maximum driving age.
According to the Older Drivers Working Group, by 2025 there will be over one million drivers aged 85 and older. The working group says it is “vital” to make changes to “prepare for this demographic shift”.
Public debate and divergent opinions
Proposals to change the legislation have sparked a real controversy, splitting public opinion into two distinct camps:
Arguments for stricter restrictions:
- Increasing road safety for all road users
- Reducing the number of accidents caused by physical impairment
- Protecting older drivers from dangerous situations
- Adapting to modern demographic realities
Arguments against restrictions:
- Age discrimination
- The right to mobility for those who have contributed to society
- Paying taxes and duties confers the right to use the infrastructure
- Individual assessment is fairer than blanket restrictions
The situation in Romania
In Romania, since 2016 there has been discussion about the possibility for drivers over 70 to renew their license once a year, similar to the British model but with even higher frequency. However, no concrete legislative changes have been made, and currently the license is renewed every ten years, regardless of the driver’s age.
Implementation challenges in Romania
Adopting a system similar to the British one in Romania would require:
- Amending road traffic legislation - adapting the Road Traffic Code to the new requirements
- Reforming the medical system - more frequent and detailed medical evaluations
- Preparing administrative infrastructure - capacity to process a larger number of files
- Public information campaigns - explaining the benefits and necessity of these measures
European perspectives and global trends
The UK is not the only country to implement special measures for older drivers. Other European countries have adopted similar systems:
- Germany: mandatory medical evaluations for certain categories of drivers
- Netherlands: periodic aptitude tests for drivers above a certain age
- Denmark: more frequent license renewals for vulnerable categories
These measures reflect a global trend of adapting the road system to demographic shifts and the needs of an aging population.
Conclusions
The debate about how often licenses should be renewed for older drivers remains complex, balancing individual rights with public safety. The British model offers a practical solution through a three-year periodic assessment for drivers over 70.
In Romania, implementing similar measures could significantly improve road safety, given that this issue directly affects the safety of all road users. Legislative changes in this regard should take into account both safety aspects and the rights and legitimate needs of older drivers.
