DVLA warns older drivers to renew licences on time or pay £1,000 penalty

While there is no legal age limit for driving in the UK, when motorists reach 70 years old they must renew their licence.

This must then be subsequently done ever three years for as long as the driver chooses to stay on the road.

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But with more Britons driving for longer, experts have warned about the impact this will have on car insurance prices.

Connor Campbell, an expert at Independent Advisor Car Insurance, said: “Legally, there is no maximum age limit for car insurance as long as you’re still fit and healthy enough to drive.

“So, in your 70s and beyond, there will be a car insurance policy out there that will allow you to maintain your independence and stay on the road. You may have slightly less choice, however.

“While most car insurance providers don’t impose an age limit on their policies, some do. This will normally be between 70 and 80 years of age.”

Driving licences automatically expire at 70with the DVLA urging older drivers to send out a renewal application form 90 days before their birthday.

Drivers must also meet the minimum eyesight requirements in order to pass their licence renewal.

The eyesight test includes being able to read a car number plate from 20 metres away, have a visual acuity of at least a 0.5 measure on the Snellen scale and have an adequate field of vision.

In addition, older drivers must inform the DVLA of any relevant medical conditions which could affect their driving ability.

Campbell warned: “If you fail to tell the DVLA about a condition that affects your driving, you can be fined up to £1,000.

“Failure to inform your insurance provider could invalidate your policy in the event of a claim.

“You won’t be able to drive while the DVLA conducts medical checks: If you have a condition that affects your driving, the DVLA will conduct medical checks to assess whether you can renew your licence. During this period, you won’t be able to drive.”

Offering drivers ways to reduce car insurance costs when they get older, the expert explained that low-mileage car insurance could be an option.

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If they drive fewer miles than the national average which is around 7,400 miles, motorists may be eligible for low-mileage car insurance.

This is cheaper than standard car insurance due to drivers being on the road less. Another option is pay-as-you-go car insurance.

Meanwhile, temporary car insurance would allow motorists to drive someone else’s car for as little as one hour or up to around 30 days.