In Washington State, there is no longer a limit for renewing a driver’s license. Thus, from now on, the driver’s license will not be based on age, but rather on a person’s abilities. This is intended to avoid age discrimination. In the United States, drivers can renew their license online until the age of 70; after that, they must go to an official center.
Aging can bring risks such as slower reaction times or vision loss
Nearly 48 million Americans over the age of 65 currently possess valid driver’s licenses. With increasing life expectancy and technological advances, this number is expected to increase significantly over the next 20 years. Aging can bring risks such as slower reaction times, vision loss, or mild cognitive impairment, all of which can affect driving ability. For this reason, some states, like Washington, will begin opting to renew drivers based on ability rather than limiting them to a certain age.
One of the main concerns on the roads is that drivers have the necessary skills to handle the responsibility of driving a vehicle. Driving is probably one of those things that is underrated; it’s not easy. The senses must be fully engaged, and physical functions must be able to respond to any situation that arises.
The federal government provides the framework, but each state has the authority to implement regulations
Due to their vastness, some roads in the United States have speed limits higher than average, so having ample knowledge is essential when getting behind the wheel. The federal government provides the framework, but each state has the authority to implement regulations. Some may offer remote testing or waive certain in-person requirements, especially in rural areas.
Drivers over 70 years of age must formally appear at an office to renew their driver’s license. Depending on the situation and each individual case, a physical or mental examination will be performed to confirm that the individual’s abilities are adequate for continued driving. If these abilities are not met, age doesn’t matter; the driver’s license will simply not be renewed. Organizations across the country such as the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and AARP also offer resources and guides for older adults who want to remain behind the wheel safely and responsibly for as long as possible.
If a family is concern, they can submit a request to the DOL for an evaluation of the case
Likewise, if the concern is external, a third-party driver’s license review can also be requested. If a family member, doctor, or citizen has concerns about an older adult’s ability to drive safely, they can submit a request to the DOL for an evaluation of the case. As we can see, the restrictions apply not only to the youngest members of the household, but also to the elderly.
Not everyone has the same abilities at the age of 70, so this measure may be effective for a large group, although we’ll have to see how it evolves as it’s implemented. The goal of the 2025 Driving for Older Persons Act isn’t to punish older drivers, but to strike a balance between safety and independence. If driving is no longer safe, there are options like senior shuttle programs, public transit discounts, volunteer driver networks for medical appointments or errands… As we said before, some of these regulations are state-specific, so we recommend asking for information about your location.
