by False Rumors About New Rules for Elderly Drivers
False reports have spread online claiming that new federal rules for drivers aged 70 and over will come into effect in the USA from July 1. According to these rumors, elderly individuals would have to undergo additional tests and renew their driver’s licenses more frequently. However, in reality, no global changes have occurred at the federal level – only minor adjustments in certain states.
Articles, likely created using artificial intelligence, contained detailed but fabricated requirements. For example, they suggested that drivers aged 70-80 should renew their licenses every 4 years with a mandatory vision exam, and those older than 86 should undergo an annual driving skills test. Some publications even moved the date for the introduction of these supposedly new rules to August when it became clear that no changes occurred in July.
Rules for elderly drivers after 70 vary from state to state.
How the System Actually Works
Experts confirm that the articles are fake. Currently, only local regulations are in effect in the USA, which vary by state. For instance, Illinois is discussing raising the age threshold for mandatory driver testing, but even this change will be far less significant than what was described in the articles.
Here are a few examples of current rules in different states:
It is important to note that many states allow elderly drivers to continue using online renewal services or mailing documents, although some require an in-person appearance after a certain age. These rules are designed to ensure road safety while preserving the mobility of elderly citizens.
