From 27 January 2026, India will require drivers aged 60 and above to undergo mandatory eye tests when renewing their licences. This change marks the end of renewals that relied mainly on paperwork, and introduces a stronger focus on health and road safety. Authorities say the new rule is designed to reduce accidents involving older drivers by ensuring that vision problems are identified and addressed before licences are renewed.
Why the Eye Test Requirement Is Being Introduced
As people age, eyesight can change and decline, affecting the ability to drive safely. The government has pointed to increasing traffic congestion and the growing number of older drivers as reasons for tightening renewal requirements. The new rule aims to balance the need for independence with public safety, ensuring that motorists are still fit to drive.
What the New Renewal Process Looks Like
Under the revised system, drivers who are 60 or older must complete a certified vision screening before their licence can be renewed. This means the renewal process will include a visit to an authorised testing centre, where a simple eye exam will be conducted.
Once the test is completed, the results must be submitted with the renewal application. The process is designed to be straightforward and quick, with results linked digitally to the licensing system to avoid delays.
What Drivers Can Expect During the Eye Test
The eye test focuses on basic vision requirements that affect driving, such as visual clarity and peripheral awareness. The goal is not to conduct a full medical examination, but to ensure that drivers meet minimum safety standards.
Most drivers who use glasses or contact lenses will still qualify, as long as their corrected vision meets the required limits. Drivers who do not meet the standard will be given guidance on how to improve their vision before reapplying.
How This Change Affects Senior Drivers
For many older drivers, the new rule will bring a sense of reassurance because it encourages regular vision checks. At the same time, it adds a responsibility to plan ahead for renewals and ensure that eyesight is monitored regularly.
Drivers who delay the eye test may face longer processing times, especially if they apply close to the licence expiry date. Planning early, updating prescriptions, and keeping records of test results can help avoid problems.
The Wider Impact on Road Safety
The new rule is part of a broader approach to licensing that considers health as a key factor in driving competence. Regular vision checks can help detect treatable issues early, which can reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall road safety.
Over time, the policy may also encourage older adults to maintain better eye care habits, contributing to healthier ageing and safer mobility.
Summary of the New Rules for Drivers Aged 60 and Above
| Category | Requirement | Applies From |
|---|---|---|
| Age Group | Drivers aged 60 and older | 27 January 2026 |
| Renewal Condition | Certified eye test required | At each renewal |
| Testing Location | Authorised vision centres | Nationwide |
| Corrective Lenses | Allowed if vision meets standards | Ongoing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who must complete the mandatory eye test?
Drivers aged 60 and above must complete the eye test when renewing their licence after 27 January 2026.
Will wearing glasses disqualify a driver?
No. Drivers can still renew their licence if their corrected vision meets the required standards.
How often must the eye test be done?
The eye test is required at every licence renewal after the age of 60.
Can a licence be renewed without completing the eye test?
No. Renewal applications will not be processed without valid eye test results.