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Things have changed in the United States of America for millions of drivers, all as the Department of Motor Vehicles imposes new rules for a very specific group of drivers.
The car industry is racing along, and while Elon Musk has made big promises about Tesla's long-awaited fully automated rollout, we're not quite there yet.
Alongside an increase in robotaxis, the roads are still filled with human drivers, both good and bad.
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Over in California, the DMV has switched things up when it comes to senior citizens renewing their licenses.
According to California’s Integrated Traffic Records System, over 400 highway accidents in 2024 involved senior drivers. With around 616 traffic-related deaths every year, it's a potentially alarmingly high percentage of accidents involving senior drivers.
The newest rules could actually make things easier for those over the age of 70 renewing their license, as they'll no longer need to take a written driver's test. From October 1, 2024, older drivers whose licenses had expired wouldn't have to undertake a written knowledge test. The requirement was only ever a policy instead of a law. Only those with poor driving records will have to visit the DMV for a written test.
It's hoped that this will 'streamline' the number of DMV office visits, and for those who're regular watchers of The Simpsons, you'll know the show regularly pokes fun at long DMV lines. In a statement, DMV Director Steve Gordon said: "If thousands fewer people need to visit the DMV, or can spend less time in an office, the people who need to take care of their business in one of our offices can be better served.”
Elsewhere, drivers 70 and older will have to make an in-person visit for a vision exam and updated photo to renew. Senior citizens are encouraged to start applications online to make sure the process can move quickly during their visit to the DMW office.
Anyone who has conditions that endanger their own safety or the safety of others will have their licenses suspended.
These disorders could be anything from episodes of confusion or conditions like epilepsy.
Special attention is paid to ensure drivers don't have the likes of dementia or cataracts.
Numerous services have moved online, including simple vehicle registration renewals, some vehicle registration and driver's records, and the replacement of lost or stolen cards.
This focus on the older generation comes after 2022 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration claimed there were 51.5 million licensed older drivers. As well as making up 22% of the driving population, it marked a 40% increase from a decade ago. The implication seems to be that as we're living longer, we're also staying behind the wheel for longer.
The changes are supposed to make things easier for everyone, especially as the May rollout of REAL ID led to lines around the block.
