How to Prepare to Take a Driver's Retest as a Senior Adult

Driving is considered an important factor that represents a senior adult’s independence, but reaction time tends to slow as a person ages. Vision and hearing also may change as we grow older. Because some of the common physical changes, which occur with aging, can affect an individual’s ability to drive, many states now require a retest for older adults before a driver’s license is renewed. Both a road test and a vision test may be conducted. In some cases, a senior driver may be required to undergo a physical and/or mental examination as well.

With the proper preparation, you'll have your license renewed in no time.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Hiring a private driving instructor to evaluate your driving skills prior to taking the test. It may pay off to schedule a few driving lessons, as a refresher course. Ask the instructor for an honest assessment of your driving performance. Having someone else ride with you is the best way to determine if you are driving safely. That will give you the opportunity to improve any problem areas before you take the retest. More practice may be necessary.

2. Reviewing drivers’ safety tips. Pay careful attention to your driving. You might want to limit any distractions, including conversation, which might take your focus away from your driving when you are behind the wheel.

3. Being certain to keep up with any changes in traffic laws. Visit the nearest driver license center and pick up a copy of your state’s Driver Manual. There are a variety of other helpful reading materials for drivers available at local libraries.

4. Taking the time to know your vehicle. Learn how to use your vehicle’s safety features. Check to make sure that both the rear-view and side-view mirrors are adjusted properly to prevent blind spots. Always make certain to use your seat belt correctly. The lap belt should be positioned low over your hips, with the shoulder belt over your shoulder and snug across your chest.

5. If you wear prescription glasses, make sure that your prescription is current and correct.

Tips & Warnings

• Medical conditions, which must be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) include: cataracts, Alzheimer’s disease, seizure disorders, degenerative muscle diseases or any other medical condition that could impair physical or cognitive function, thereby, impacting a person’s ability to drive.