Full Notification

Driver safety can often be a sensitive issue for older drivers. A driver’s license signifies more than the ability to drive a car; it is a symbol of freedom and self-sufficiency. Understandably, driving is not a privilege that anyone wants to relinquish willingly. Still, safety must come first.

Some older drivers may be aware of their faltering ability but still be reluctant to give up driving completely. Another person’s concerns may force the senior driver to act. They may even feel relieved to have someone else help make the decision to stop driving. Some seniors may forget that they aren't supposed to drive. If that is the case, it is even more important to remove the car or the keys to make it impossible to drive. If you find yourself in the position of talking to an older friend or family member about their driving, remember the following:

• Be respectful. For many seniors, driving is an integral part of independence. Many older adults have fond memories of getting a driver’s license. At the same time, don’t be intimidated or back down if you have a true concern.

• Give specific examples. It’s easier to tune out generalizations like “You just can’t drive safely anymore.” Outline concerns that you have noticed, such as “You have a harder time turning your head than you used to,” or “You braked suddenly at stop signs three times the last time we drove.”

• Find strength in numbers. If more than one family member or close friend has noticed, it’s less likely to be taken as nagging. A loved one may also listen to a more impartial party, such as a doctor or driving specialist.

• Help find alternatives. The person may be so used to driving that they have never considered alternatives. You can offer concrete help, such as researching transportation options or offering rides when possible. If your family member is reluctant to ask for help, it can lead to isolation and depression.

Understand the difficulty of the transition. Your loved one may experience a profound sense of loss having given up driving. Don’t dismiss their feelings but try to help with the transition as much as possible. If it is safe, try slowly transitioning the senior out of driving to give them time to adjust. For example, your loved one may begin the transition by no longer driving at night or on the freeways, or by using a shuttle service to specific appointments, such as the doctor’s.

When an older driver refuses to give up the keys

Sometimes an older driver has to be stopped from driving over their objections. It might feel very difficult for you to make this call, especially if the senior is a parent or other close figure used to having their independence. However, their safety and the safety of others must come first. An unsafe driver can seriously injure or kill themselves or others.

If appropriate evaluations and recommendations have been made, and no amount of rational discussion has convinced the driver to hand over the car keys, then you may make an anonymous report to the Department of Motor Vehicles or talk to the person’s physician about your concerns. In some cases, there is a need to take further actions

Mature Driver Improvement Programs

Seniors may want to practice their driving skills by taking a driver education and training class specifically developed for older drivers. A list of approved Mature Driver Improvement Programs is available from the DMV by following this link https://www.dmv.ca.gov/vehindustry/ol/md_programs.htm.

DMV Reexamination

DMV Reexamination is a term used by DMV personnel when an evaluation must be made of a person’s driving skills. A person with a recent physical or mental condition, or a poor driving record, could prompt the need for a reexamination. Reexaminations are generated from many sources including the following:

• Your physician. Physicians are required by law to report medical conditions or disorders that are characterized by loss of consciousness or control, along with other medical conditions that may affect your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

• An emergency technician. Emergency personnel, who treat you in an emergency facility because you experienced a sudden loss of consciousness, awareness, or control, are required by law to report your medical conditions.

• A family member. Letters from concerned family members, friends, or neighbors who may report to DMV that in their opinion you are no longer able to drive safely.

• A peace officer. Any law enforcement officer who stops you for a traffic violation or who works at an accident scene in which you were involved may report to DMV that you appear to be an unsafe driver. The law enforcement officer would be reporting what he/she observed about you that made him/her believe you are an unsafe driver.

• Your driver license renewal application. Your DMV application asks if you have a disease, disorder, or disability that affects your ability to drive safely. “Yes” answers require further investigation by DMV.

• Your driving record. Your driving history, which includes accidents, traffic convictions, reckless or negligent driving habits, fraudulent use of a driver license, or other grounds which would cause DMV to not issue a driver license to you.