Question to the Department for Transport:
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of (a) requiring all drivers to submit a recent eye test result when applying for a driving license renewal and (b) broadening the required eye tests to include an assessment of (i) vision in reduced lighting, (ii) reaction times, and (iii) peripheral vision.
All drivers, regardless of age, have a legal responsibility to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if they develop a medical condition that may affect their ability to drive.
The Government is considering the current process of self-declaration and the challenges posed by an ageing population where certain conditions, including vision conditions, may become more prevalent. In the meantime, the current renewal at age 70 process remains as is, and drivers must legally declare any vision or medical conditions that may affect their ability to drive.
Any options for change will be subject to public consultation.