United States Department of Transportation
i
Licensing Procedures for Older Drivers
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2013-09-01
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[PDF-1.23 MB]
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Abstract:This study examined the driver licensing procedures in all 50 States as they apply to the older (65+) driver. A literature review examined reports of possible declines in older driver capabilities and the ability of a driver licensing agency to screen for them. The review also covered studies of licensing policies and procedures that had the potential ability to reduce older driver crash rates. Four special emphasis States (Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, and New Hampshire) were selected for further study because their mix of policies and procedures could theoretically enhance safety. All 4 required shorter renewal periods, in-person renewal, and vision testing for older drivers. In addition, Illinois and New Hampshire were the only States to mandate a road test for every renewal. Six comparison States were identified (Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Vermont, and Wisconsin). Each of the 4 special emphasis and 6 comparison States were treated as a separate case study. A detailed process evaluation was conducted in the emphasis States, and discussions were held with licensing agency managers, license office staff, and older drivers. Managers and staff believed their procedures positively affected safety. Older drivers did not feel unfairly treated and recognized the need for additional screening and self-limitation. Crash measures showed stable or declining crash rates per population for older driver ages in all 10 States. Crashes per licensed driver showed a differential pattern for Illinois and New Hampshire, the 2 States that re-test all drivers 75 and older, as compared to the other 8 States, which could simply be the effect of removing people who do not drive from the license rolls in these 2 States. Additional research to attempt to describe more fully the data patterns uncovered and ways to overcome existing screening limitations, e.g., better vision testing equipment, appears warranted.
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