On Wednesday 7th January 2026, the Department for Transport (DfT) released a new road safety strategy. As part of this strategy, one of the proposed measures is the introduction of mandatory eyesight checks for all drivers over the age of 70 years. There has been a large amount of media attention around this proposal.

For more information, members are directed to the strategy documents using the link provided: Road safety strategy – GOV.UK

The DfT have opened a call for evidence to seek views on the proposals to introduce mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers in Great Britain.

The Department for Transport is seeking views on:

• potentially moving away from the current self-declaration system for eyesight standards for drivers aged 70 and over
• introducing mandatory eyesight tests for older drivers as part of the driving licence renewal process

As Chair of the Secretary of State for Transport’s Honorary Medical Advisory Panel, Dr Claire Howard, along with fellow panel member Dr Lauren Hepworth, will be writing a BIOS response for the consultation. This response will collate the evidence available and make recommendations to support any reform of driving laws.

If BIOS members have any thoughts or evidence they would like to ensure are heard in the report, we request these are sent via email before Friday 6th February 2026.
Please send any thoughts for the consultation to claire.howard3@nca.nhs.uk.