Florida drivers, this news is for you. If you are 80 years old or older, this is of interest to you. This year, changes are being implemented in driver’s licenses. Why? To improve the safety of everyone on the roads, and yes, we know that this can generate doubts or concerns among those affected, so here we are to explain everything perfectly so that you don’t have any doubts!
The population over 65 years of age has increased, and it is important to educate them and find out if they are really qualified to drive in the state of Florida.
What measures have been implemented?
The first and most talked about news is that, once you turn 80, you will have to renew your driver’s license every six years (instead of every eight as established until now). In addition to this, you will have to pass a vision test that will be mandatory as part of the renewal process.
This test will be performed at the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) offices with an authorized doctor, and the purpose of this test is for the Administration to ensure that all people who get behind the wheel (or go out on the road) have adequate vision to drive safely, both for themselves and for other road users. If these doctors detect vision problems, a medical report will be requested from an ophthalmologist (a vision specialist) or an optometrist to confirm whether or not the person can drive.
What is the reason for these new measures?
The main reason for this is that the population is getting older and older, and Florida in particular is one of the states with the highest number of drivers over 80 years old (and it continues to grow by leaps and bounds…), and according to recent data there are more than 825,000 drivers over 80 years old around this state. Although most of them are very careful, age is age and stress and health problems are always knocking on the door, which could cause many accidents.
So, the FLHSMV seeks to prevent possible tragedies behind the wheel and take care of the health of its elders.
On behalf of the CDC (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention), they have confirmed that once you turn 70, the risk of suffering serious accidents is much higher, so it is good news that the Administration wants to take care of its older drivers in this way.
What is the process now?
It is still just as easy, although it requires a little planning. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
- Take the vision test at an FLHSMV office by submitting Form HSMV 72119S.
- If they have detected any problems, you will need a medical report confirming whether or not you are fit to drive, which will be submitted using Form HSMV 72010.
- Once you have everything, you can renew your driver’s license as usual.
You will need the following requirements as usual.
- Valid identification document
- Proof that you reside in Florida
- Pay the corresponding fee.
What if the result is that you cannot drive?
If the administration decides that you are no longer safe behind the wheel (or you do not meet the requirements) there is an alternative, which is to apply for an official identification card, this document is just as valid as an official document.
All of this is done to make the roads safer for all users, so it’s all part of a plan to reduce accidents and save as many lives as possible. Plus, it’s not just older drivers who will benefit, but also everyone they share Florida’s streets and roads with, safety should be crucial for everyone!