I promised ages ago to upload the letter I got back from Dr Laydyman when I wrote to my MP to suggest that it would be a huge advantage to road safety, congestion, and therefore the environment to re-test drivers every 5 or 10 years.
My theory being that around 20% of the people currently driving on our roads are unfit to do so.
(That figure is a complete guess btw )




Obviously ... click on them for a larger image.

Anyway, The answer was basically.
We are making tests harder and targeting those that are "clearly irresponsible" drivers (With police action)
Which means, we are ignoring those who are clearly incapable

Still ... It was nice of them to respond


Just thought you'd be interested



(ps. Not at that address any more in case you were thinking of coming round )

 

I thought they would jump at the idea to retest every 10 years and charge a nice administration fee.

 

Long over due that idea!

 

Personally I think once you reach 70 years of age you should re-take your test. Also have a medical where you sit in a car and have to be able to look over both shoulders, be able to get in and out of a car within 45 seconds and take a reflex test to prove that you are still capable of stopping within the distance set out by the DOT.

That would probably reduce traffic by 10% per year, ad infinitum, getting rid of the worst drivers to boot

 

10 years is too long - bad habits are easily regained in a few months if you are not focussed on a retest within a much shorter test.

Unfortunately, retesting shorter than 10 years would be political (and economic) suicide. Even every 10 years would be pushing it.

 

You do afaik.
If you check your license it expires on your 70th birthday.

 

Fair doos, I am amazed that you got a response! Having said that, you probably cost us all

 

:iagre: However Chris isn't Donna's license like mine. where we have to renew every (up to) 3 years?

I don't have to take a test but I do have to let the DVLA have access to my med records.

 

Yes, indeed.
Donna's runs out this Dec.

I belive there are a few other medical conditions that also require periodic 'check ups'

 

Have to say they have got more efficient - myine was renewed last year and far speedier than it used to be