HL Deb 05 November 2003 vol 654 c120WA
Lord Berkeley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What evidence they require from drivers over 60 to provide to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency proof of adequate eyesight when applying for or holding driving licences. [HL5189]

Lord Davies of Oldham

For drivers of cars and motorcycles, eyesight is checked at the practical driving test by the reading of a number plate from a prescribed distance. When the licence is renewed at 70 the driver is required to declare that the eyesight standard can still be met. Drivers of large vehicles such as lorries and buses are required to undergo a medical examination, including an eyesight test, at application and then at age 45 and at five yearly intervals thereafter until 65, from which time the examination is carried out annually.

All drivers are required by law to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency if at any time they develop an ongoing medical condition affecting their fitness to drive, including defective eyesight.

Lord Berkeley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In which European Union member states driving licensing authorities require drivers over 60 to submit evidence of a satisfactory eye test when applying for or holding driving licences.[HL5190]

Lord Davies of Oldham

There is currently no comprehensive information available on how other member states evidence satisfactory eyesight in relation to driver licensing. However, the European Commission has recently issued a questionnaire seeking information on the procedures in place in member states for applying the minimum standards of physical and mental fitness to drive. We understand that the findings of this will be presented at a future meeting of the EC Committee on the Driving Licence and when they are available I will write to the noble Lord.