Drivers in Ireland who were born in certain years are being warned that they may soon be unable to legally drive due to recently updated rules regarding medical fitness to drive. In Ireland, most motorists are required to renew their driving licence every 10 years. However, once drivers reach the age of 75, additional requirements are introduced.
For drivers aged 75 and over, a doctor's certification confirming their fitness to drive becomes mandatory, as well as notifying the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) about any long-term medical condition or injury that could impact their ability to drive safely. This means that drivers born in the years before 1950 will be required to provide a medical certificate to renew their driving licences. Drivers in this age bracket must apply for either a one-year or three-year licence, depending on their medical status.
These rules affect anyone aged 75 or older, or those whose licence is due for renewal right before their 75th birthday. In February 2022, a significant change was made in the law, raising the age at which a driver must submit a medical report from 70 to 75. This adjustment allows drivers under 75 to renew their licence without the need for a medical report, unless they have a specific illness or condition that necessitates one.
Former Minister for State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton said at the time: “People who are 70 years of age or over can now apply for, and renew, their driving licence with.
