Can a Doctor Stop an Elderly Person from Driving?

As adults age, they may not be able to drive like they used to. But when should an older adult stop driving? Can a doctor stop an elderly person from driving? What are the conditions that can cause an unsafe elderly driver to get their license revoked? In this post, we’ll answer what you need to know about older adults and driving.

What Are Signs an Older Adult Should Give Up Driving License?

There is no definitive age when an older adult should stop driving. It can depend on several factors related to their physical and mental health. Some signs that an older adult should stop driving include:

• Frequently receiving traffic tickets or warnings from law enforcement over the past two years
• Unexplained damage to the vehicle or property, such as dents and scrapes on the car, fences, mailboxes, or garage doors
• A noticeable delay in reacting to sudden situations while driving
• Experiencing “close calls” or near-accidents on a regular basis
• Feeling anxious, uncomfortable, or fearful when behind the wheel
• Difficulty focusing or becoming easily distracted while driving
• Getting lost while driving, even on familiar routes
• Struggling to stay within your lane while on the road
• Having trouble noticing or responding to road signs, signals, and pavement markings
• Difficulty judging gaps in traffic at intersections or when merging on or off highways
• Medical conditions or medications that could impair your ability to drive safely

Can a Doctor Take Away Your Driver’s License?

A doctor cannot revoke an older adult’s license on their own but they can report a medical condition to set the revocation process in motion. States where medical professionals are required to notify the DMV if a patient has a medical condition that impairs their driving include California, Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. Reporting an unsafe driver can trigger a DMV hearing that can lead to a license suspension or revocation.

In general, the DMV will notify the driver that their license may be suspended. From there, they will have to submit a copy of their medical history. If that history suggests a safety risk, then the DMV will schedule a hearing. A DMV hearing officer will listen to evidence concerning the driver’s ability and will then make the decision to suspend or revoke their license.

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How to Legally Stop Someone from Driving

Try not to be deceptive, such as hiding keys, to prevent an older adult from driving. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) says, “It is better to maintain a sense of trust in your relationship, being honest and persistent. Encourage the person to make a decision to reduce or stop driving as appropriate. Be aware that persons who lose the privilege of driving often feel lonely or anxious because they have fewer opportunities to be with friends or involved in activities.” However, in addition to doctors, other individuals have the power to report unsafe drivers to the DMV. These can include police officers, judges, or even family members. If you have no other choice, you can report directly to the DMV, and you may even be able to do so anonymously.

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