For most senior drivers, driving by themselves is a necessity. However, when one turns 70, it becomes a bit complicated, especially when renewing a driving license. It is also demanding because in most cases in the U.S, one has to renew at least every 5 years.
To make the matter even more demanding, rules for senior drivers in California are under scrutiny, and new requirements are about to be implemented. The new rules will affect how seniors renew their licenses.
California Seniors Face In-Person Renewals
In California, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires drivers aged 70 and older to renew their driving licenses in person every five years. Some drivers may also have to take a knowledge test depending on their driving history.
According to DMV, these rules are meant to improve safety on the roads and not to complicate the process or punish seniors. The tests are necessary because, due to aging, some seniors might develop problems with their vision, reaction times, and memory, which are critical to safe driving.
To ensure that seniors are eligible to renew their licenses, DMV offers an open-book, no-fail e-learning option for the knowledge test, especially those that had traffic violations or accidents.
Tom Hayes, a volunteer with AARP in Redding, advises seniors to schedule an eye exam two or three months before the renewal date. He also advises them to update their medical records and take a defensive driving class to keep them sharp behind the wheel.
He also said that at AARP in Redding, they teach the AARP Smart Driver course in adherence to the California law. Those interested can take the course every three years while and those aged 55 can get a discount on their insurance.
The Truth Behind the Viral ‘New Law’ for Drivers Over 70
There has been a rumor circulating online that there is a nationwide law that requires senior drivers to meet stricter standards. The rumor stated that the U.S. Department of Transportation would require all seniors over 70 to undergo road tests, eye exams, and cognitive screening before renewing their licenses.
Additionally, the viral article said that seniors aged between 70-80 would renew their licenses after every four years, those aged 81-86 would renew after every two years, while those above 87 years would renew annually and have to undergo annual eye and road tests. Note that there is no such rule and that the information in that viral article is false.
The truth is, there is no federal law or nationwide rule forcing drivers aged 70+ to undergo extra testing. License renewal rules are at the state level, and each state has its own distinct rules. This means that while some impose vision checks or reduce renewal periods, others might decide to have the same rules for older and younger drivers.
How to Prepare for Renewal the Smart Way
Experts have recommended the following steps for seniors before renewal day:
- Check your state’s DMV site because rules vary widely.
- Get eye tests early, even if your state doesn’t require them. Regardless, healthy vision is crucial for safe driving.
- Take a refresher course. You can enroll in programs like the AARP Smart Driver course to sharpen skills and also lower your insurance premiums.
- Update your health records, especially if you have a condition that could impact driving.
Conclusion
If you are 70 or older, it is important to stay up-to-date with the new requirements for license renewal in your state. In California, you will be required to visit the DMV in person and take a knowledge test. Also, be aware of fake viral claims suggesting a new federal crackdown on senior drivers.
Check the true and specific rules in your state. Also, prepare for them by taking a refresher course, taking vision and knowledge tests. Even though your state might not need these, they may sharpen your skills behind the wheel.