Express.co.uk takes a look at the three biggest updates which could hit older motorists soon.

Older driving test assessments 

Motoring experts are looking into the feasibility of delivering a framework for a standardised voluntary mature driver assessment across the UK. 

Many local authorities have already developed their own mature driver tests to check if road users are safe behind the wheel.

However, a standard national test to assess skills such as following and hazard perception has not been developed. 

Specialists are currently conducting an evaluation of voluntary mature driver assessments delivered in five areas of the country to look at what a national check could look like. 

Work is being carried out by the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS), the Older Driver Task Force (ODTF), the Older Drivers Forum and the University of Warwick.

With research starting last summer, it is possible we could hear more on what this could look like in 2025.

New car tax changes 

Older drivers are not exempt from the major new Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) car tax changes coming into effect from April 2025. 

Standard VED rates will rise from £190 to £195 per annum but first-year rates will see the biggest rise. 

Fees for petrol cars emitting over 255g/km of CO2 will double with rates jumping from £2,745 per hour to £5,490. 

Older cars registered before 2001 pay VED fees on the size of their engine with those producing over 1,549cc paying £15 extra. 

Bills will rise from £345 to £360 for these road users while those with engines below 1,549cc are set to pay £220 instead of £210 from 2025.

Eyesight testing 

Although no changes are yet pencilled in, pressure is mounting on the introduction of new eyesight testing rules for older drivers. 

Under current rules, motorists are not required to undertake an eyesight test at 70 to stay on the roads unless there are medical concerns. 

Rob Heard, founder of the Older Drivers Forum, recommends motorists should have regular vision checks to stay safe. 

He previously saida: “One of our recommendations to the Department for Transport was that we should at the age of 70 and every three years or when we renew our licence thereafter undertake an eyesight test with an optician. 

“We feel the 20m number late test is antiquated and no longer fit for purpose, All it does is measure a certain distance.”