A new study by IAM RoadSmart suggests older drivers support retesting in order to stay behind the wheel.

More than half of drivers over the age of 60 back retesting for older motorists. Furthermore, nearly half support the idea of “flexible” licences.

IAM RoadSmart’s research found support for regular compulsory retests for the over-70s. Additionally, those surveyed back proposals that would place limits on where and when some older drivers can use their cars.

Some involved in driver training have expressed concern. They fear it could lead to a “two-tier” system that would restrict some people’s ability to get around.

Rather safe than sorry

The poll of more than 3,000 older motorists finds 55% of over-60s agree with compulsory retesting. This could be every five years for drivers aged 70 and above.

Currently, drivers have to renew their licence at the age of 70. This is via a self declaration and no retesting is required. But a number of high profile news stories about dangerous older drivers have led to concerns.

Some councils had been subsiding local driver assessments with driving instructors. However, austerity and funding cutbacks have seen many of these stop in recent years.

IAM’s director of policy, Neil Greig, says “many older motorists are confident in their driving”. He continues that the research shows they are “happy for their health and driving skills to be periodically tested”.

Flexible lifestyles

The survey also found that 46% of drivers support the idea of flexible driving licences. This would allow motorists to continue driving, but possibly within certain restrictions. For their added safety and that of other road users, limits could be placed on certain areas, types of road or times of day they drive.

“Flexible licences are already used in some countries, including the USA and Australia. In these places, following an official assessment, older drivers can continue behind the wheel, but in a restricted area, type of road, or time of day.

IAM RoadSmart would like to see a pilot project take place in the UK. Greig believes that the flexible older licence has the potential to improve the safety of older drivers, and a general confidence in their safety behind the wheel. Not all drivers are going to be up to the the same levels of ability as their younger selves. However, they could benefit from being encouraged to make the most of their abilities in the right situations and refraining from driving at other times. This “would allow some older drivers to maintain their mobility and still reach local services”. He adds that this “would maintain their quality of life as well as reduce the cost to society of bringing services to them”.

Working together

However, Ian McIntosh, CEO of Red Driving School, is “disappointed” at IAM RoadSmart’s suggestion of introducing flexible licences.

The plans could create a “two-tiered system for older and less mobile drivers, and potentially restrict people’s movement”. Instead he would prefer to see more encouragement and resources going into driving assessments. These can improve driving skills, pointing out bad habits that should be rectified. At the same time, those considered potentially dangerous can be encouraged to hang up the keys.

“We know a driving licence is a great source of independence, particularly for those over the age of 70. Rather than disenfranchising older people with graduate driving licences, we should be encouraging voluntary assessments.

“Refresher classes should be the norm for all drivers. At Red we want people to encourage their relatives and friends to undergo these voluntary refresher courses so that roads remain as safe as possible.”

You can view the full IAM RoadSmart report on older drivers here.