NEW data reveals nearly 40,000 drivers were stripped of their licenses after failing to meet crucial DVLA rules.
Now over 70s are in the firing line with even more drivers expected to lose their licences.
A Freedom of Information request by Marshall Motor Group reveals 37,000 drivers lost their licenses after failing or refusing to meet eyesight rules between 2022 and 2025.
The DVLA currently requires drivers to read a registration number from 20 metres away, which is roughly 5 cars.
But new rules could mean over 70s must retake the eyesight test when they renew their licence.
Current restrictions mean the age group must renew their licence every three years, declare any medical conditions and “self-report” their visual health.
The changes would mean from August 2025 the over 70s age group may have to prove they’ve taken an eyesight test within the last 12 months in order to renew their licence.
Police currently have the power to carry out roadside eyesight tests on drivers if they’re concerned with a motorist’s vision.
8,000 drivers a year are found not to meet the requirements from across a range of age groups.
However the largest number of revoked driving licences, due to poor eyesight, is amongst 70-79 years-old with 10,794 being stripped.
The new DVLA rules would likely see this number increase as more over 70s would be forced to take eyesight tests during licence renewals.
The plans would also see the drink-driving limit lowered in line with Scotland, the equivalent of two standard drinks, and would give drivers a point on their licence for not wearing a seatbelt.
