Two million motorists risk driving illegally as they don’t know their licence runs out when they reach 70

Two million older drivers risk being on the road illegally by failing to renew their licences, a study shows.

More than one in four motorists aged over 65 are unaware of the legal requirement to renew their driving licence every three years if they are over 70.

And while the vast majority of older motorists rate themselves as good drivers, 7% – about half a million people – doubted their ability to read a number plate from 20 metres away.

A survey of more than 500 older drivers for Direct Line car insurance found 17% felt 70 was too early for a a standard driving licence to expire.

While 52% of older drivers agreed that 70 was the right age for a standard licence to expire, a fifth (20%) felt it should be determined on a case by case basis.

There are currently four million drivers with a full licence aged 70 or over and 230 drivers aged 100 or above.

Gus Park, of Direct Line said: “It’s crucial that older motorists are aware of their obligations to renew their licence as they risk driving illegally if it expires.

“We want to remind older drivers that their licence will automatically expire at the age of 70 – regardless of their health or ability to drive.

“If an older motorist wants to continue to drive they must make a renewal application in advance, and continue to do so every three years from the age of 70 to ensure their insurance remains valid.