Japan tightens driving tests for motorists aged 75 and over

Japan is implementing stricter driving examination standards for senior motorists aged 75 and above, addressing a growing public safety concern as the nation's ageing population drives an uptick in fatal accidents among elderly drivers.

While Japan has achieved a general decline in traffic fatalities over recent years, accidents involving drivers aged 75 and older have moved in the opposite direction, defying the national improvement trend. The surge underscores the challenges posed by an increasingly elderly demographic operating motor vehicles on the country's roads.

The enhanced testing measures aim to identify drivers whose age-related physical and cognitive decline may compromise their ability to operate vehicles safely. The stricter assessment standards will target reaction time, vision, and decision-making capabilities among older motorists seeking licence renewal or continuation.

The policy reflects Japan's broader struggle to balance mobility and independence for senior citizens with public road safety. As one of the world's most rapidly ageing societies, Japan faces mounting pressure to develop transport solutions that protect both elderly drivers and other road users.

Official data showing the disparity between declining overall traffic deaths and rising elderly-driver fatalities has prompted policymakers to act, with the enhanced testing framework expected to take effect in the coming months.