Road safety is of paramount importance, and it is no different for older drivers. Some states have introduced stricter regulations to make roads safer for these drivers. This article lists 15 states with the most stringent rules for seniors. Find out which states are cracking down and what methods they use.

Illinois 

When residents clock 75 in Illinois, they must renew their driving licenses physically. Likewise, drivers over 75 must pass a compulsory vision test to prove their independence and confirm the safety of other road users. Doing so in person helps confirm if they satisfy the state’s driving criteria.

Delaware 

The drivers in this state, especially those 74 and older, face strict tests to keep their licenses. Renewals must be done in person, and a vision test is required. Drivers must also submit a medical form, pass a written test, and complete a road skills test. These steps guarantee that drivers stay competent and safe on the road.

California

Since over 2.9 million drivers in California are 70 or older, the state has set severe laws to secure the safety of roads. Besides being mandated to renew their licenses in person, some senior citizens aren’t allowed to drive on freeways, at night, and during rush hour. Others may be mandated to wear bioptic telescopic lenses.

New Hampshire 

In a bold move to prioritize road safety, New Hampshire has maintained that drivers 75 and older must undergo a thorough evaluation every five years, including a vision test. Senior citizens may also need specialized vehicles with features like automatic transmissions or prosthetic aids. The state’s daytime-only restrictions further show their uncompromising stance.

Oregon 

This state has started paying particular attention to drivers over 50, demanding they renew their licenses in person every eight years. They require doctors to report those who can’t drive due to medical conditions and use extra mirrors outside the vehicle. Breaking the rules may lead to license suspension after screening them against legal requirements.

Florida 

Here, the regulations require drivers aged 80 and above to renew their licenses with a vision test every six years. The state’s DMV may order seniors to use equipment modifications like hand controls or seat cushions. Also, the year-round Florida CarFit programs link seniors with technicians who can help make them safer.

New Jersey 

The age recognized as elderly in the New Jersey driving department is 70; at this age, drivers are required to renew their licenses in person. This requirement allows the authorities to evaluate their driving fitness in real time. The laws also demand an eye test signed by a health practitioner to prove they can still drive. 

Georgia 

Georgia focuses on road safety for older drivers starting at age 64. They must renew their licenses in person every eight years so officials can check their skills. This process, which includes a vision test to guarantee good eyesight, helps keep the roads safe and may involve a written test on traffic laws.

Nevada 

Although Nevada allows drivers 65 and older to renew their licenses by mail or fax, it’s still proactive when it comes to seniors. They may require a left-foot accelerator or restrict driving speeds to 45 mph or less. Licenses must also be renewed every four years, and in some cases, a written or road test may be necessary for approval.

Massachusetts

Drivers who are 75 and older in Massachusetts must renew their licenses in person every five years, allowing officials to check their skills. To further increase road safety, they must also pass a vision test that confirms they see well enough to drive safely. This regulation helps keep the roads safe and provides all drivers, regardless of age, are competent.

Michigan 

In Michigan, drivers renew their licenses in person so officials can check their skills. Drivers who are 80 and older also take a vision and written test every four years to confirm they can drive safely. This way, older drivers can stay updated on traffic laws and safe driving practices and confirm they can see well enough to drive safely.

Pennsylvania

Under Pennsylvania law, drivers aged 65 and above are mandated by state laws to renew their licenses physically every four years. However, the state’s DMV doesn’t enforce written or practical driving tests. The state encourages drivers 55 and older with a 5%discount on their vehicle insurance when they complete the Basic Mature Driver Improvement Course. 

Connecticut

For drivers aged 65 and above, Connecticut emphasizes their driving fitness for general safety. The state implements rigorous requirements, including renewing in person and after every two years. Seniors must also have 20/40 and 20/50 acuity in vision tests to get unrestricted and restricted licenses, respectively.  

Washington 

All drivers must renew their license every six years with the option to do so online, even for seniors. Regardless, older drivers are usually restricted to certain types of vehicles and cars with mechanical control devices. Also, besides the Vision Examination Report, they may have to take a medical screening if they’ve recently had a lapse of consciousness.

Indiana 

Here, drivers 75 and older must renew their licenses in person so officials can check their driving skills. They must also pass a vision test to prove they can see well enough to drive. Licenses must be renewed every three years for ages 75-84 and every two years for 85 and up, balancing independence and safety.