RAC calls for driver eye tests amid over-80s rise

There are record numbers of drivers aged 80 and above, DVLA data reveal, as the RAC backed mandatory eye tests for those renewing their photocard licences.

Analysis shows one in 25 licence holders in Britain – 1.6million people or 4 per cent of all drivers – is over the age of 80 .

It is the highest figure recorded since 2012, and an increase from 1.4million two years ago. The RAC Foundation urged the Government to introduce “compulsory eye tests for all drivers”.