The United States Department of Transportation has announced its new measure and some seniors over 65 do not seem very happy. It is a measure aimed at improving driver safety and road safety in general. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the percentage of accidents involving older people rose from 13.7% in 2023 to 14.7% in 2024. For this reason, several states such as California, Florida, and Texas have taken measures to renew the driver’s license of older people more frequently. Among the tests they must pass is a practical exam supervised by a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) instructor.
United States Department of Transportation
It is a department belonging to the Federal Cabinet of the Government of the United States that is responsible for transportation in the country. It was Congress that founded it in 1966, and it began operations on April 1 of the following year. Among its functions is to provide the country with a fast, safe, efficient, accessible, and comfortable transportation system for its citizens.
Changes in road safety measures
Until now, older adults could automatically renew their driver’s license in the United States. However, since July of this year 2025, this will no longer be possible. The United States Department of Transportation has imposed a new regulation under which older adults over 65 will have to undergo periodic tests that include vision tests, cognitive evaluations, and practical driving tests. Why has this measure been taken? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the accident figures involving older individuals are approaching concerning highs. In 2023, the percentage of fatal accidents was recorded at 13.7%, compared to 14.7% in 2024.
What tests will adults need to take to renew their license?
Starting in July, senior citizens will be required to take these exams mandatorily if they wish to keep their driver’s license. The main tests they must take are:
- Vision test: aims to detect vision problems, cataracts, glaucoma, or progressive loss of sharpness.
- Cognitive evaluation: aims to detect memory retention, attention, and reaction time issues.
- Practical exam: they should take a practical exam supervised by a DMV examiner.
These tests aim to ensure that drivers on the road do not pose a danger and are in optimal physical and mental condition.
Each state has its own rules
The new regulation is federal, but its application is flexible in each state. The three states with the largest adult population have already announced the requirements for their elderly citizens:
- California: visual examinations starting at 70 years old.
- Florida: cognitive assessments starting at 80 years old.
- Texas: all tests starting at 79 years old.
How often will they have to renew their licenses?
Although each state can determine its requirements, the renewal age will be the same nationwide:
- Between 70 and 80 years: mandatory vision exam, renewal every 4 years.
- Between 81 and 86 years: vision exam and cognitive test if required. License renewal every 2 years.
- From 87 years onwards: annual renewal, mandatory practical exam.
Voluntary notification system
We all know someone who refuses to stop driving because they believe they are in full capacity and their driving is exemplary, when the reality is different. Family members, acquaintances, neighbors, who from an objective point of view can pose a risk to road safety but refuse to acknowledge it. This is why a voluntary notification system has been established for anyone who wants to report one of these cases, including doctors, who can alert the authorities if a patient exhibits these characteristics. These measures are not intended to restrict the freedom of our elders, but to ensure that they do not pose a risk to others or themselves.
Do you know what the process is to get a driver’s license in South Carolina?