Virginia

The following are some warning signs that may indicate that an older driver can no longer operate an automobile safely.

Are you worried that your elderly parent is no longer safe to drive? This article will tell you what to do next, especially if your loved one lives in Virginia.

Smart, Safe & Sober is a comprehensive statewide partnership aimed at reducing traffic fatalities. It is a joint effort of local law enforcement, the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police, the Virginia Highway Safety Office of the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Virginia Department of State Police, the Virginia Sheriffs’ Association, and DRIVE SMART Virginia.

Dealing with a loved one's ability to drive is an emotional issue, involving not just a person's sense of independence, but also their safety and the safety of others.

 Be aware of any changes in eyesight, physical fitness and reflexes, and any medications that impact driving ability. Be willing to compensate by making changes in driving habits or choosing alternative transportation. 

Am I a safe driver? After all, most of us want to make a responsible choice to protect others and ourselves when we drive. Age can affect our ability to sense, decide, and act.

Virginia drivers age 75 or older are required to appear in person at DMV for their next license renewal and pass a vision screening. Once issued your license will generally be valid for five years.

Whether it’s the driving of a spouse, a parent, or another loved one, there may come a time when you begin to question whether a loved one is still safe to drive. How do you know when its time to stop driving? 

Medical Review Services (MRS) is a team at DMV headquarters that reviews all cases where Virginia drivers may have a mental or physical condition that may impair driving ability, even temporarily.