One in 20 Britons believe drivers should have their licence automatically revoked at the age of 50 due to “old age”, according to new research.
A new poll found that more than a third of UK adults support the idea of revoking licences at a certain age.
The survey revealed varying opinions on when drivers should lose their licences due to age. While five per cent believed this should happen at 50, eight per cent thought 60 was appropriate, and 11 per cent suggested 70.
It comes as more drivers are staying on the roads longer with the DVLA recording over 40 million people with a licence in the UK with the proportion of people aged 70 or over holding a full driving licence increasing from 45 per cent in 2002 to 73 per cent in 2022.
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Elderly drivers could be heavily affected by autonomous vehicles
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Regional differences were stark, with nearly half of Greater London respondents supporting licence revocation at 50, compared to just 28 per cent of Scots.
Northern Ireland showed the strongest opposition, with 78 per cent disagreeing with age-based licence removal.
Support for regular retesting was high, with 70 per cent of Britonsfavouring this approach. Nearly a fifth advocated for retesting every decade, while 13 per cent supported a 20-year interval and nine per cent preferred 30 years between tests.
Aidan Rushby, founder and CEO of Carmoola said: “Our recent survey highlights that, despite no current laws mandating it, the majority of Brits believe drivers should be required to retake their tests after a certain number of years to maintain safety on UK roads.
“What stood out most to us was how opinions shifted as we look towards a future with autonomous vehicles, which could be on UK roads as soon as 2026.
“It’s evident that public attitudes change significantly as technology evolves, potentially offering new mobility options for millions of people across the country.”
More than a third of respondents who initially supported revoking licences for those over 70 changed their stance if older drivers had access to autonomous cars.
This shift was particularly pronounced among younger adults, with 46 per cent of those aged 25-34 supporting older drivers using self-driving vehicles.
However, those aged 55 and above were less enthusiastic, with only 24 per cent expressing confidence in older drivers operating autonomous vehicles.
Once drivers reach 70, they must renew their licence every three years in order for it to stay valid and continue using UK roads.
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, said: “The number of qualified drivers on UK roads has reached record levels, showing that travelling by car continues to be the main and most convenient form of transport, particularly for older people.
“Having a car also allows many older people to feel socially connected. That’s especially true in more rural areas, where public transport can be unreliable.”
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These findings come as the UK prepares for the implementation of the Automated Vehicle Act in 2026, which could significantly alter the landscape of driving and mobility for millions across the country.
