Drivers in England could face 'extra' driving lesson when they hit this age

Elderly motorists could face an "extra" driving lesson amid calls for the UK to introduce restrictions on older road users. A new report from UNSW Sydney and NeuRA in Australia has warned older drivers have higher rates of crashes than middle-aged drivers.

Drivers aged over 80 - born before 1944 - are at particular risk. A randomised controlled trial of older drivers, entitled the Better Drive Study, investigated whether driving skills can be improved despite the "physical and cognitive challenges of old age".

Drivers over the age of 65 were divided into three groups: the first had a refresher, the second was filmed as they hit the road, and the third got video feedback and lessons tailored to their errors. Professor Kaarin Anstey said: "People don't naturally ask themselves 'do I need to update my driving skills'.

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"The idea is that we need to put some effort into improving our driving and maintaining our skills, and it shouldn't be stigmatised at all. It could be something like, when you turn 50 you're invited to have an extra driving lesson just to check in on your driving. At the moment you'd only get that if you had something wrong with your driving. It'd be better to make it a normal part of life."

Professor Anstey said: "In some cases, a GP might refer someone for a driving test with a driver-trained occupational therapist, who might do some off-road tests and then put them through a driving test. And then they'd write a report and the occupational therapist can make a recommendation about licensing."

There is no upper age limit for driving a car. All drivers have to renew their driving licence when you reach the age of 70 and every 3 years after. The renewal form will be sent to you automatically by the Driver Vehicle Licence Agency (DVLA) 90 days before your 70th birthday. You can also renew your driving licence online for free any time from 90 days before your 70th birthday.