NewsSir Keir Starmer facing calls to introduce new rule for older driversThe Association of Optometrists (AOP) has long called for tougher vision checks on UK roads which is now being backed

by the Older Drivers Forum which has urged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to introduce the new rulegazetteliveBookmarkShareCommentsNewsByChristian AbbottAudience WriterJade McElweeContent

EditorLuke Chillingsworth15:11, 3 JUN 2025BookmarkSir Keir Starmer urged to introduce new rule for older drivers immediatelyGet the latest Teesside Live breaking news on WhatsApp

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screenings on UK roads. In a conversation with the Express, Dr Hampson highlighted: "The UK system around drivers vision is out of step with many other countries who instead use a full

sight test to ensure vision meets the standard."

He pointed out that within Europe, the UK is one of the few nations relying on a number plate test and self-reporting, stating: "In fact, within Europe, we are one of only five countries

that uses a number plate test and only one of three countries to rely on self-reporting."

Dr Hampson advocates for compulsory vision tests when applying for a licence and at every renewal, which occurs every decade for most drivers and every three years for those over 70, saying:

"We have long called for mandatory vision checks at first licence application and at every renewal – every 10 years for most drivers, every three years for those over 70.", reports

Birmingham Live.

He also mentioned the accessibility of optometry services across the country: "With over 7,000 optometry practices nationwide, optometrists are well placed to support the delivery of these

checks swiftly and effectively."

The Older Drivers Forum recommends regular eye examinations, as they stated: "The Forum recommend that all drivers have an optician's eyesight test at least every two years. Nearly 90%

of driving is visual and we need good vision to see hazards and react to them."

Dr Hampson reassured the public about the availability of optometry appointments in contrast to other primary care services, telling the Express: "Unlike other parts of primary care, such as

dentistry or for GPs, optometry does not have long waits for appointments or the capacity challenges that we see elsewhere in the NHS.

"Optometrists already see many patients that fall within this age group. This is because those over the age of 60 are entitled to an NHS sight test that comes at no cost to the patient."

Dr James Adeley, senior coroner for Lancashire, highlighted concerns after discovering four fatalities caused by drivers with impaired sight.

He labelled the UK's licensing regulations as 'laxest' in Europe in a correspondence to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander.

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