Renewing our driving licence is something we must all do, and whereas we don’t have to carry out a test, there is a medical that is required to ensure that we are fit enough to drive, or if any restrictions should be implemented do our a medical condition, and that fact is the case whatever our age, the only difference being the older we get, the more frequently we must be checked, and it is that part which is changing for older drivers.
The DGT has persistently stated that mobility is important, whatever our age, and so they have no intention to withdraw that luxury, but driving has to be done in the safest way possible.
At the moment, we are all obliged to carry out the psychotechnical examination every 10 years until the age of 65, at which time we must begin to renew it every 5 years. Both those timeframes can be reduced if the doctor feels it necessary.
However, from now on, people who are over 70 years old, they will see an increase in the frequency with which they must renew this permit with the aim of “ensuring that the ability to drive remains intact”. Therefore, those over 65 must renew their driver’s licence every 5 years and, from the age of 70, every two years. Although, like now, it is at the discretion of those responsible for carrying out the psychotechnical test, who can force an annual examination, if appropriate.
According to Pere Navarro, General Director of Traffic, “now from the age of 65 you renew for five years. But extending the card to someone who is 90 seems strange. Therefore, those people who are over 65 and wish to renew their driving licence will have to provide an official application form, the DNI, an updated photograph and a psychophysical aptitude report.
A change that is supported by the deputy director of Road Education and Training, María José Aparicio, who affirms that although those over 65 only represent 10% of drivers, one in three fatalities in traffic incidents in the European Union are in this age group. Likewise, in the case of Spain, the percentage rises to 28%.
There are other reports which suggest that younger drivers pose a higher risk on the road, in particular those under 25, but this change is offered as a means of protection for older drivers, who, whether we like it or not, suffer from decline in our health at a much faster rate, hence the need to be checked by a doctor who can confirm that we are still very capable, and can therefore continue to drive, or not, as the case might be.
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June 21, 2023
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22 thoughts on “The Latest Driving Licence Update for Older Drivers”
Can 332 clarify at what point is this change for over 70s will come about
My own spanish driving licence expires in 2024…but issued in 2019.
I find this a bit offensive. I understand the thinking but in my experience the young are not safe on the roads … phones cigarettes loud music overtaking when unsafe exceeding speed limits. The list is endless … Also the lack of public transport where I live … rojales .. is shocking Perhaps if the town halls in Spain provided transport there would be less traffic on village:/town roads which were not designed to cope
Will the new times kick in when existing expiry dates come up? It will mean having to renew sooner for me if not.thanks
If we have to renew our licences every two years surely that discriminates against the over 70’s and should be free of charge.
I have recently(2 mths) moved permanently from France to here in Spain, is it an easy proses to exchange for a Spanish licence
I have held a Spanish licence for over 15 years, renewed it last week at the age of 78, now only 2 years, was an eye test, blood pressure, and dexterity test, cost 40 euros.
I love ready the info on this site. I understand it is maintained voluntarily by mainland Police. I only wish we in the islands, had access to the many meetings and video displays such as the recent one in Torrevieca.
It is a fact. Not all older people use social media and miss out on valuable info.
At age 76, my last renewal in November 2021 seems to indicate (4b) expiry in 2026.
So this has been separately superseded?
Can I renew my licence early as I will not be in Spain when my current licence expires?
I think you can do the medical and renewal up to 12 weeks in advance
Can we now change our UK licence to a European one?
Not yet. Follow Britsinspain on facebook, the official British Embassy page, where the information on exchanging driving licences is published.
No still waiting for ratification
I am a pensioner,
With a driving license,
But hate they thought about the extra costs that will be incurred with this policy,
Obviously someone has,
And thought,’ this will bring in more revenue’
Sorry ‘ hate’ SHOULD BE ‘ HAVE’
I think it’s more about public safwty than generating income. It should be introduced in the UK.
You have to renew your licence every 3 yrs ,when over 70, in the Uk. You also have to declare certain illnesses and have a letter from your doctor to say you’re ok to drive.
But no medical in Uk which is just stupid
I am 66 and have a license that is valid until I am 70. Does this mean I have to immediately re apply for my license or can I wait until it expires? How much will it cost and how long will the application take? Who will complete the psychophysical report? I think more detail is required for those concerned, like me, will be worried about the changes.
I obtained my Spanish license when i was 62, I was 70 in December 22, I thought I had to change it however upon examination I saw that it didn’t expire until July 23. That’s when I’ll renew it. As far as I can recall to change my UK d/license to Spanish cost €60 plus €20 for the medical it was very easy to do. I hope this puts your mind ar rest.
I am 75 renewed my licence yesterday, cost 45€ test was just an eye test over in 10 mins
Could you tell me where you renewed it .
Each step you had to do would be fantastic.
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