Quick Facts Regarding Cognitive Impairment, and Age Related License Restrictions
12% of states physicians are required to report individuals who are cognitively, or medically
impaired to the DMV (California, Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, and Pennsylvania). It
was not clear however, if all of these states have streamlined systems that allow medical
professionals to communicate directly with the DMV through a common data base or
standardized system. Rather many have this communication take place through mailing or faxing
in a form that lists the individual’s impairment, and the medical professional’s opinion.
50% of the remaining states (not including states listed above), encourage or allow physician
reporting, but do not make it mandatory. This reporting is done through the use of anonymous, or
non-anonymous reporting of individuals as being inept to operate a motor vehicle (Alabama,
Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky,
Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico,
North Carolina, North Dakota, Rhode Island, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming).
40% of states require a decreased time between license renewals once an individual has reached
a specific age (a majority of which is age 65).
30% of states require the addition of a vision test in regard to reaching a certain age.
5% of states require an in person license renewal once an individual has reach a specific age.
This does not account for states that have always required in person license renewal independent
of an individual’s age.
Only the District of Columbia requires a road test in regard to reaching a certain age (75 years
old). Other states only require this if there is suspected impairment as suspected by a DMV
agent, physician note, or referral (anonymous, or non-anonymous).
**Please refer the list of each state’s age based policies in alphabetical order for specific
information regarding individual state policies (page 3).**
Professional Organization Recommendations
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration contains recommendations concerning how
often people with dementia should be reevaluated. These include multiple on-road evaluations in
different areas to be conducted every three to six months (2005).
According to a report produced by the American Association for Motor Vehicles as well as the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration a number of tests have been identified as useful
in predicting driver performance:
Useful Field of View Test (A PC-based, computer-administered and scored test of
visual attention), Trail Making A and B (Tests that are designed to screen the cognitive function
of an individual and monitor subjects for cognitive decline, brain injury, or cognitive
impairment. The test consists of two parts; The Trail Making Test Part A, consisting of 25 circles
numbered 1-25 and the patient has to draw lines to connect the numbers in ascending
order and The Trail Making Test Part B, consisting of 25 circles including both
numbers (1-13) and letters (A-L) and the patient has to draw lines to connect the
circles alternating between the numbers and letters (i.e., 1-A, 2-B, 3-C, etc.), and similar tests are
useful in identifying drivers who may perform badly on road tests. However, the predictive
power of these tests is not sufficient for licensing decisions to be based solely on the results of
these and similar tests.
The Mini Mental Status Exam (A brief 30-point questionnaire test that is used to screen
for cognitive impairment. It is commonly used in medicine to screen for dementia. It
is also used to estimate the severity of cognitive impairment at a given point in time
and to follow the course of cognitive changes in an individual over time, thus making
it an effective way to document an individual's response to treatment). This assessment has been
supported the most by medical professionals second to actual in person driving tests in indicating
a person’s ability to adequately operate a motor vehicle. While it has some predictive value as far
as on-road performance is concerned, it cannot be used to remove a person’s driver’s license.
Following an assessment with the MMSE, it is recommended that a functional assessment be
conducted in order to gain information as to the individuals overall ability to operate a motor
vehicle, as well as risk factors that may lead to future impairment of this skill (health, prior
history of alcohol abuse etc. This subsequent required testing is recommended as health care
professionals will not always be able to detect potentially compromised patient before there is a
road-safety-related incident.
List of Each State’s (Including District Of Columbia) Specific Age Based Policies in
Alphabetical Order
Alaska
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person
Vision test: Yes
Written test: No
Road test: No
Diagnosed dementia that is termed severe makes it so that individuals with it are not allowed to drive,
mild and moderate dementia can still be allowed to drive as long as stated deemed so by the DMV. No
additional requirements for evaluation, or reevaluation were found.
Alabama
Specific rules for older drivers
None
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years
Renewal conditions: In person
Vision test: No
Written test: No
Road test: No
On website stated they adhere to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration driving guidelines
manual recommendations.
Arkansas
Specific rules for older drivers (65+)
Must have vision tested every two years.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years
Renewal conditions: In person or by mail.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
No additional information was able to be located, and phone call to DMV has not yet been returned…
Arizona
Specific rules for older drivers
Those 60 and older must renew every 5 years.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 12 years
Renewal conditions: At age 65, reduction of cycle to 5 years (from 12 years)
Vision test: Yes
Written test: No, unless recommended by the Medical Review Program based on reports of
compromised driving ability from physicians, law enforcement, emergency medical providers, concerned
citizens and/or family members, or a Motor Vehicle Division personnel observation.
Road test: If recommended by the Medical Review Program based on reports from physicians, law
enforcement, emergency medical providers, concerned citizens and/or family members, or a Motor
Vehicle Division observation.
All evaluations occur by the DMV and diagnosis of dementia alone does not lead to revocation of
license. Additionally individuals can be granted restricted license that allow them to operate only a golf
cart, drive only during certain specified hours, or drive to only specified locations.
California
Specific rules for older drivers
No renewal by mail or Internet after age 70.
May be required to take a supplemental driving test if vision exam is failed
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, but qualified drivers (that is, drivers under 70 who are not on driving
probation or suspension) can renew by mail or Internet for no more than 2 license terms in a row.
Vision test: Yes, at in-person renewal.
Written test: Yes, at in-person renewal.
Road test: Only if there are indications of driver impairment, based on a report by a law enforcement
officer, a physician, or a family member.
Drivers who are diagnosed with dementia are required to return within 6 to 12 months so that they can
be revaluated in order to assess the progression of their disease. Physicians are required to notify DMV
of patients that they deem unable to drive, or who have a neurocognitive disorder such as dementia
Colorado
Specific rules for older drivers
People 66 and older can't renew electronically, but they can renew by mail (effective August 2008) if a
licensed ophthalmologist or optometrist certifies that they passed a vision exam given within the previous
six months.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: If eligible, mail-in or online renewal every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: Only if point accumulation for traffic violations has resulted in suspension.
Road test: No. However, a medical clearance is required if drivers answer "yes" to a question about
whether they have had a condition (such as heart attack, stroke, epilepsy, seizures, etc.) that could impair
their driving ability.
Doctors can report individuals with cognitive disorders by completing and sending in forms however, to
date there is not a uniform or user-friendly process for doctors to report a medical opinion to the DMV.
Connecticut
Specific rules for older drivers
Those 65 and older can select a 2-year or a 6-year renewal cycle, based on fee structure. Typically, a
personal appearance at renewal is required. If they show hardship (such as a medical reason), those 65
and older may renew by mail.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 6 years for those under age 65; choice, based on fee structure, of every 2 years
or 6 years for those 65 and older.
Renewal conditions: In person at a DMV location. By mail typically only to residents who are
temporarily out of state, or for a medical reason.
Vision test: No.
Written test: No.
Road test: For new applicants and for those who have had an expired license for two years or more.
Individuals can be referred to DMV for several conditions such as dementia, and these are then
evaluated by the DMV, as to whether or not the individual’s license will be revoked.
District of Columbia
Specific rules for older drivers
Starting at age 70, a vision test is required to renew a license, and a reaction test may be necessary. A
practicing physician must certify that the applicant is physically and mentally competent to drive.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: Those with a clean driving record and no medical specifications or conditions
(such as a change in vision, diabetes diagnosis, recent episodes of or treatment for fainting or seizures)
can renew by mail or online every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: If a person, regardless of age, is believed to be incompetent as a licensed driver, and if a
license has been expired for more than 180 days, a written test is required. Starting at age 75, drivers may
be required to complete a written test.
Road test: If a person, regardless of age, is believed to be incompetent as a licensed driver, and if a
license has been expired for more than 180 days, a road test is required. Starting at age 75, drivers may
be required to complete a road test.
Delaware
Specific rules for older drivers
Individuals 65+ must pass a vision test to renew their license.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
State law allows DMV to conduct a re-examination of driving ability if the DMV receives a written
request from law enforcement, family, physicians or others acceptable to the DMV. To keep driving
privileges, individuals will need to submit a medical form verifying they are safe to drive. Then they will
need to successfully complete the vision test, written test, and road skills test. Based on a physician’s
recommendation, they may be required to have an evaluation and/or training from a certified
rehabilitation center and provide the DMV with a release from the center.
Florida
Specific rules for older drivers
Vision test mandatory starting at age 80.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 6 years if no driving infractions; every 4 years otherwise.
Renewal conditions: By mail, phone, Internet, or in person, every third license term.
Vision test: Yes, at in-person renewal.
Written test: May be required, based on driving history, signs of physical or mental impairment based on
observations of a department clerk, or a report by a law enforcement officer, a physician, a family
member, or another member of the public.
Road test: May be required if there are signs of physical or mental impairment, based on observations of
a department clerk or in response to a report by a law enforcement officer, a physician, a family member,
or another member of the public.
Reporting of unsafe driver is kept completely confidential in Florida, as compared to other states. Once
Medical Reporting Form is recieved, the Department conducts an investigation to ensure there is cause
to initiate a review of the driver. • If cause is shown, the driver is advised they are under medical review
and are asked to provide medical information from their physician to the Department. • Once received,
the information is provided to the Department’s Medical Advisory Board. • After review, the Medical
Advisory Board provides a recommendation regarding the individual’s ability to drive. • This
recommendation may be to: • Require additional information from the driver; • Require the driver to
re-take the driving test; or • Revoke/deny a license. • If a license is denied/revoked, the driver may
request an administrative hearing to appeal the decision.
Georgia
Specific rules for older drivers
Those age 64 and older need a vision test.
Standard driver's license renewal:
License renewed: Every 5 years for those 60 and older. Veterans' licenses are valid until age 65. Under
age 60, license renewed every 5 or 10 years at the driver's choice. [Note: 10-year renewal is $30; 5-year
renewal is $20.]
Renewal conditions: In person for those 64 and over. Those under age 64 may be eligible to renew by
mail or Internet.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Hawaii
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers 72 and older must renew their license in person every 2 years.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 2 years for those 72 and older, otherwise every 8 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, mail in or online (with a doctor's certification for vision and general
health, regardless of age).
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: If required; need is usually based on medical reports.
No information was able to be found regarding state policies. Phone call has not been returned.
Iowa
Specific rules for older drivers
License renewed every 2 years for those 70 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 2 years for those 70 and older or those under 18. Every 2 years or 5 years,
based on a fee structure, for those 18 to 69.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: If physical or mental conditions (such as changes in health status) warrant.
All revocations are determined by the DOT’s Office of Driver Services, after a signed written request
form is submitted that pertains to the worry about the safety of a driver.
Idaho
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers 62 and over must renew in person, and every 4 years..
Standard driver's license renewal:
License renewed: Every 4 years for those over age 62. Those 21 to 62 can choose between 4-year and 8-
year renewals.
Renewal conditions: Mail in or online every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes, for in-person renewal.
Written test: No, unless examiner thinks it necessary.
Road test: If requested by DMV examiner, law enforcement agency, family member, or physician.
No information was able to be found regarding state policies. Phone call has not been returned.
Illinois
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers 69 to 80 must renever their license every 4 years; drivers 80 to 86 must renew every 2 years.
Drivers 87 or older must renew their license annually. For those 74 and older, no renewal by mail.
Those renewing their license aged 75 and older must pass a road test.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 2 years for those 81 to 86 years, and every year for those 87 and older. Every 4
years for those under age 81.
Renewal conditions: For those under 75 with a clean driving record and no medical report (based on
physician or community member filing a report questioning driving ability or physical or cognitive
skills), mail-in, telephone, or online renewal available every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: Every 8 years if traffic convictions have occurred.
Road test: Yes, for those 75 and older.
No additional information was able to be found.
Indiana
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers 75 to 85 must renew their license every 3 years; drivers older than 85 must renew every 2 years.
Must review in person at the age of 75, and can no longer renew online
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years for drivers age 18 to 74; every 3 years for those 75 to 85; every 2 years
for drivers older than 85.
Renewal conditions: In person. Online renewal available for drivers under 75.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No, unless license has been expired for more than 2 years or driver has six or more points
accumulated for traffic violations.
Road test: Only if there is a medical reason, or if license has been expired for more than three years.
DMV worker stated that they have regulations regarding individuals with insomnia, but do not have
regulations regarding dementia.
Kansas
Specific rules for older drivers
License renewed every 4 years for those 65 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years for those 65 and older, and every 6 years for those 64 and under.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: Yes.
Road test: Yes, if examiner indicates, for visual acuity of 20/60 or worse, or per a physician's request.
Worker stated that they did not know if they had specific regulations regarding cognitive impairment.
Kentucky
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: No.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Website was not operating correctly, call was not answered.
Louisiana
Specific rules for older drivers
No mail, phone, or Internet renewal for those 70 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, or every other cycle by mail, phone, or Internet.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: If license has been expired 12 months or longer.
Road test: If license has been expired 2 years or longer.
According to state DMV worker no regulations are in place regarding individuals with dementia
Massachusetts
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers 75 and older must renew in person.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, or every other cycle by Internet or mail.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No, unless indicated for legal or medical reasons.
Road test: No, unless indicated for legal or medical reasons.
Registry cannot guarantee anonymity. Massachusetts has a Public Records Law and a copy of this
form will be released if a formal written request as to what initiated the RMV action is received from
the licensee. When the report is from a health care provider the physician's report is not submitted
on the medical evaluation form provided by the Registry, then the physician must make the report
on his or her official letterhead, and include his or her signed name, Massachusetts Board of
Registration in Medicine number, and telephone number and/or address.
Maryland
Specific rules for older drivers
Vision test at age 40 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person or by mail every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes, for age 40 and older.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Police officers use the 9 question roadside assessment and referral for reexamination format in order to
assess drivers on the road that are 65 and older if they have already made a traffic violation.
Maine
Specific rules for older drivers
A vision test is required at each renewal for age 62 and older. License renewed every 4 years for age 65
and older. (At the first renewal after age 40, a vision test is required, then at every second renewal until
age 62.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years for those age 65 and older; every 6 years for those under age 65.
Renewal conditions: Mail in or in person.
Vision test: Vision test is required at each renewal for those age 62 and older. (At the first renewal after
age 40, a vision test is required, then at every second renewal until age 62.)
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
No policies specifically pertaining to cognitive disorders were found
Michigan
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers 65 and older must renew in person.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: Mail in or online every other cycle, if no traffic convictions and no changes in
physical or mental condition.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No (unless license has been expired for four years or more).
Road test: No (unless physical or mental condition indicates a need).
No policies specifically pertaining to cognitive disorders were found
Minnesota
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No (unless license has been expired for more than 1 year).
Road test: No (unless license has been expired for more than 5 years).
The state does not have any specific policies referring to cognitively impaired individuals, and driving
restrictions, but does provide an updated (2015) handout to individuals 65 and older at the DMV regarding safe
driving tips specifically relating to aging. https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ots/older-drivers/Documents/TCB-
insert.pdf
Missouri
Specific rules for older drivers
Renew every 3 years for those 70 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 6 years for those under age 70; every 3 years for those 70 and older.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No (unless license has been expired for more than 6 months or a review process indicates).
Road test: No (unless license has been expired for more than 6 months or a review process indicates).
No specific policies regarding cognitively impaired individuals, and driving restrictions.
Mississippi
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal:
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, or every other cycle by Internet regardless of age.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Montana
Specific rules for older drivers
For drivers age 68 to 74, all renewed licenses expire at age 75. For drivers 75 and older, renewal is every
four years and must be in person.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 8 years; every 4 years for drivers 75 and older.
Renewal conditions: In person, or by mail every other renewal cycle for residents of counties that do not
provide driver’s license services or those residents temporarily living out of state.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: Yes, if driver's ability is in question.
Road test: Yes, if driver's ability is in question.
DMV worker stated that they do not have any specific policies regarding cognitive impairment, and
revocation of drivers license (that revocation is based on an individual to individual basis, and these
decisions are based on a variety of factors).
North Carolina
Specific rules for older drivers
Renewal every 5 years for those 54 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 8 years, or every 5 years for those 54 and older.
Renewal conditions: In person, or by mail if out of state for 30 or more days.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: Yes.
Road test: At the discretion of the examiner.
No information was found regarding cognitive assessment requirements for driving, other than passing
drivers test, upon renewal.
North Dakota
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person; one-time mail-in renewal if out of state at time of renewal.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Website was unresponsive, and phone number did not work.
Nebraska
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers 72 or older must renew their license in person.
Standard driver's license renewal:
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, or via mail if out of state. Online renewals are available for drivers
under 72.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No, unless license has been expired for more than one year or has been suspended,
revoked, or canceled.
Road test: No, unless license has been expired for more than one year or has been suspended, revoked,
or canceled.
No information was found regarding cognitive impairment and driver license revocation.
New Hampshire
Specific rules for older drivers
A road test is required for those 75 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal:
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, or online for drivers under 75.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: Yes, for those 75 and older.
No information was found regarding cognitive impairment and driver ability.
New Jersey
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Periodically, if indicated.
Written test: If indicated, by referral, from the Motor Vehicle Commission's medical review process.
Road test: If indicated, by referral, from the Motor Vehicle Commission's medical review process.
New Mexico
Specific rules for older drivers
Renewal every year for drivers 75 or older (drivers who will turn 75 during their 4-year or 8-year
license term need to renew at age 75).
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 or 8 years; every year for drivers 75 or older.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: May be required.
Road test: May be required.
Nevada
Specific rules for older drivers
Those 70 and older renewing by mail must supply a vision and medical report. Those 70 and older may
not renew by Internet.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, by mail, or via internet (for those under age 70) every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes, in person.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
New York
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years for initial renewal; subsequent renewals every 8 years.
Renewal conditions: In person or via Internet or mail. No matter how a license is renewed, if the driver
has or has been treated for certain medical conditions, such as hearing impairment, heart ailment, lost use
of a limb or eye, convulsive disorder, or any condition that causes unconsciousness, he or she must
submit a medical form that can be either mailed or shown in person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Website did provide a checklist for family members, and those with early stage cognitive decline to
assess their, or their family member’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
Ohio
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, or by mail if out of state.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No, unless the Bureau of Motor Vehicles has good cause to believe that the driver is
incompetent or incapable of safely operating a vehicle. Good cause may be considered if a request for
recertification is received from a law enforcement agency or court, medical personnel, a relative, friend,
neighbor, or other community member.
Road test: No, unless the Bureau of Motor Vehicles has good cause to believe that the driver is
incompetent or incapable of safely operating a vehicle. Good cause may be considered if a request for
recertification is received from a law enforcement agency or court, medical personnel, a relative, friend,
neighbor, or other community member.
No specific information was found, and phone call was not returned.
Oklahoma
Specific rules for older drivers
License fee is reduced for those age 62 to 64 and is waived for those age 65 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person, or by mail if out of state.
Vision test: No.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
DMV worker stated they do not believe that they have policies regarding dementia, or cognitive
impairment, and that all license revocations are conducted on an individual basis.
Oregon
Specific rules for older drivers
For those 50 and older, vision is tested every 8 years.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 8 years.
Renewal conditions: In person only, regardless of age. If out of state, a temporary license may be sent
via mail.
Vision test: Yes, every 8 years for those 50 and older.
Written test: No.
Road test: No. However, DMV may test if family members, friends, law enforcement, medical
professionals, or social service providers have reported an unsafe driver.
Pennsylvania
Specific rules for older drivers
Drivers age 65 or older have an option to renew every 2 years instead of every 4. Some drivers 45 and
older (chosen through a random mailing of 1,900 per month) are requested to submit a medical and
vision exam report prior to renewing.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person or via mail or Internet.
Vision test: No.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Rhode Island
Specific rules for older drivers
Renewal every 2 years for those 68 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years; every 2 years for those 68 and older.
Renewal conditions: In person or online.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
South Carolina
Specific rules for older drivers
License renewed every 5 years for those 65 and older. Those 65 and older cannot renew online.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 or 10 years for those younger than 65; every 5 years for those 65 and older.
Renewal conditions: In person for 5 or 10-year renewals. Only the 5-year renewal is available by mail
(if there are no violations totaling more than 5 points in the past two years, and no suspensions,
revocations, or cancellations); or via Internet (if driver is under 65 and there are no violations totaling
more than 5 points in the past two years, and no suspensions, revocations, or cancellations).
Vision test: Every 5 years.
Written test: Only if there are 5 or more points on the driver's record for traffic violations, or a condition
exists affecting driving ability.
Road test: Only if there is a need, such as a medical condition affecting driving ability.
South Dakota
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Tennessee
Specific rules for older drivers
Renewal fees are reduced for drivers 60 and older who wish to obtain a driver's license with no photo.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person or online every other cycle for those under age 60. Licenses issued to
those 60 and older may be nonphoto licenses and can be obtained by mail or Internet every cycle.
Vision test: No.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Texas
Specific rules for older drivers
Renewal is every 2 years for those 85 and older. Mail, phone, and electronic renewal are not available for
those 79 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 2 years for those 85 and older; every 6 years for those under 85.
Renewal conditions: In person. Mail, phone, and electronic renewal are available for those under 79, but
not for those 79 and older.
Vision test: At in-person renewals.
Written test: No.
Road test: No, unless there is a concern regarding the driver's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle
(determined through observation and/or interview by a Driver License Division employee).
Utah
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No, unless driver has had 4 or more traffic citations in 5 years.
Road test: No, unless examiner questions driver's ability.
Virginia
Specific rules for older drivers
Vision test required for those 80 and older.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 8 years.
Renewal conditions: In person only for those 80 and older. Vision test required for those 80 and older.
Alternative methods can be used (for those younger than 80 with a clean record and no medical
indicators) every other cycle. These include mail in, Internet, touch-tone telephone, and fax.
Vision test: Yes, for those 80 and older.
Written test: Only if driver is under 21 and is convicted of 1 or more moving violations.
Road test: No.
Vermont
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person or by mail.
Vision test: No.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Washington
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person only at age 65 and older. Those under age 65 can renew in person, or
online or by mail every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes, in person only.
Written test: Only if warranted by a vision, health, or medical screening.
Road test: Only if warranted by a vision, health, or medical screening.
Wisconsin
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 8 years.
Renewal conditions: In person or by mail if driver is out of state at time of renewal.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: Yes, if a Department of Transportation official, vision specialist, or physician deems it
necessary.
Road test: Yes, if a Department of Transportation official, vision specialist, or physician deems it
necessary.
West Virginia
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 5 years.
Renewal conditions: In person.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: No.
Wyoming
Specific rules for older drivers
None.
Standard driver's license renewal
License renewed: Every 4 years.
Renewal conditions: In person; by mail every other cycle.
Vision test: Yes.
Written test: No.
Road test: Only if a physician or examiner deems it necessary.
*Some information was directly gathered from Driver Fitness Medical Guidelines, Community Mobility
and Dementia reports, and the Caring.com website regarding older adult driving laws.