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New Driving Age Law Raises Requirement By Eight Years

A new driving bill has been passed, raising the age requirements for certain tests as of next year.

A new driving age law has been passed in one U.S. state, having been described as a ‘long-overdue action.’

Illinois State Representative, Jeff Keicher, revealed: “I still believe we need to do more so that road tests are determined based on more appropriate factors.

“This is such a driving record and ability to safely operate a vehicle, regardless of age, but this legislation is a critical step forward.”

But it’s not the only driving bill to come into effect in the near future.

Starting September 14, new speed cameras will be turned on in Florida and citizens will be threatened with $100 fees.

Also in September, certain vehicles operating in Texas will have to get a special permit.

Under the new driving bill, part of The Road Safety and Fairness Act, citizens in Illinois no longer have to take a test to renew their license before a certain age.

The state orders senior citizens to take a test every year in order to renew their driving license – an effort to remove inadequate drivers off the road.

But instead of taking the annual driving test after turning 79, The Road Safety and Fairness Act has now raised the minimum required age from 79 to 87.

Keicher said: “Illinois is the only state in the country that requires driving tests based solely on age, even though data has consistently shown older drivers are actually some of the safest on the road.

“Passing this bill is a long-overdue action to respect our seniors, reduce barriers and annual costs for them to maintain their driving privileges, and see each person as an individual instead of making assumptions about them because of their age.”

The state representative took a moment to thank older drivers, who shared their concerns and frustrations with him.

He noted: “I want to take a moment to thank the seniors who came out to our events, called, sent emails and shared with me their concerns and frustrations about their experiences in the senior license renewal system.”

Family members will also be able to submit a request to the state on behalf of a relative, if they are concerned about their ability to drive.

Tests could determine cognitive and mental ability, which could decide if they can safely operate a vehicle.

Family members will also be allowed to submit a request to the state for a review of their relative’s ability to drive, and determine if they should keep their license.
If deemed legitimate, tests determining cognitive or mental abilities may be done to decide if they can safely operate a vehicle.

This includes, written, vision, or driving tests.

The new age law will come into effect on July 1, 2026.

Related Article: Major Change To Driving Licenses Set To Hit 50 Million Brits

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