Driving licence rules change to raise age limit for those needing medical reports to 75

Rules will change from Monday, February 21

News that the age at which an applicant for a driving licence must supply a medical report will increase from 70 to 75, has been welcomed by a local Fianna Fáil TD.

The new rules will come into place from Monday, February 21. Driving licences will remain free to those aged 70 or over. In addition, drivers aged 70 and over may continue to apply by post to renew a licence or learner permit.

Welcoming this news, Deputy Niamh Smyth said: “People who are 70 years of age or over can now apply for, and renew, their driving licence without the need to submit a medical report, on the condition that they do not have an identified or specified illness. Drivers up to the age of 75 can simply renew their license or learner permit in person, by post or online at ndls.ie at their convenience.

“I understand that the change in the age limit is supported by a range of supports for older drivers and healthcare professionals in terms of comprehensive guidelines on medical fitness to drive.”