CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A study from the North Carolina Department of Transportation shows the number of older drivers in crashes seems to be growing.
And while it's difficult to think about your parents or grandparents losing some of their independence, some people are wondering if some folks are just too old to drive.
THE QUESTION
Is there a maximum age limit for drivers in North Carolina?
THE ANSWER
No, there is no maximum age limit for someone to get and keep their driver's license in North Carolina.
OUR SOURCES
WHAT WE FOUND
From 2010 to 2019, NCDOT said there were 377,470 crashes involving drivers aged 65 and older. The study shows that for the last 10 years, crashes involving older drivers have increased by an average of 6% per year.
Homan said there is no maximum age restriction to drive in North Carolina.
"The only sort of change that happens is when folks turn 66 the renewal period goes from eight years to five years," he said. "So you have to come back in the office more often once you hit 66, but aside from that, there's no change."
When you have to renew your driver's license in person at the DMV, Homan said that’s when you’ll get a new photo and vision test.
"If there's an obvious physical impairment that might be something that would limit someone's driving ability, or if they fail the vision test or something like that, they can be referred to the medical review program, where they would go through a process with a physician to make sure that they are fit to drive," Homan explained.
If you're concerned about a family member, Homan said you shouldn't be afraid to speak up and ask about the process of getting their parents from behind the wheel before they have a crash.
The CDC says there are some things older adults can do to stay safe on the roads.
Some of these include:
- Driving when conditions are safest
- Having your eyes checked by a doctor at least once a year
- Planning your route before your drive
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.