The new regulations will mandate that drivers over 70 prove they can read a number plate from 20 meters away every three years. Currently, drivers of any age are not required to demonstrate their skills or health after initially obtaining their license. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) relies on a self-reporting system where drivers are responsible for informing the agency if they become unfit to drive.

Edmund King, president of the AA motoring organization, pointed out the accessibility of eye care, stating, "Eye tests are free for people over the age of 60 anyway."

The road safety strategy also proposes other measures, including lowering the drink-driving limit in England to align with Scotland's limit and introducing penalty points for not wearing seatbelts. These proposals were initially reported in August.

The government believes that mandatory eye tests for older drivers will help identify potential vision problems that could impair driving ability. The current self-reporting system has been criticized for its reliance on individuals to accurately assess their own fitness to drive.

The new measures are expected to be debated in Parliament before being implemented. The government will also launch a public awareness campaign to inform drivers about the changes and encourage regular eye check-ups.