As we age, there are a numerous factors that can affect our driving skills, and hinder our ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. It doesn’t matter what age you reach, you’re allowed to continue driving as long you continue to drive safely and confidently.Texas drivers who are 79 years of age or older at the time their current driver license expires are generally required to renew their license in person. Drivers over 85 years of age can only renew it for a 2-year period. Most senior drivers in Texas who renew their license in person will be asked to undergo a basic vision test to ensure they are able to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Sometimes, a physical or mental condition can impair a driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. The most common of these conditions is poor vision, but others which may be age-related include cognitive skills like memory, coordination and flexibility. In some circumstances, older drivers may have a restriction placed on their driver license. The types of restrictions vary, and are based on the results of your vision test, driving test, and the driving examiner’s assessment. A restricted driver license is intended to ensure that you are driving within your abilities. Some of the most common license restrictions are those that:
- Require eyeglasses, corrective contact lenses, or bioptic telescopic lens to be worn at certain times.
- Permit driving from sunrise to sunset only, or prohibit driving during rush hour.
- Restrict the geographical area in which a person is permitted to drive, or prohibit freeway driving.
- Require special mechanical devices, or an additional side mirror on the vehicle.
- Require extra support in order to ensure a safe and correct driving position.
