Drivers Over 60 Face Annual Licence Renewal Under New NTSA Proposals
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced proposed changes that would significantly alter how drivers aged 60 and above apply for and renew their driving licences, as part of wider reforms aimed at improving road safety.
Speaking on Thursday during an interview on Radio Generation, NTSA Manager for Road Safety Programmes Samuel Musumba revealed that motorists who reach the age of 60 will, under the new proposals, be required to renew their driving licences annually instead of the current three-year cycle.
Mr Musumba explained that once a driver reaches the age threshold, they will no longer be eligible for the standard three-year renewal period.
“Within the new curriculum for drivers, once you hit 60 years, you will be required to renew your licence every year and not every three years,” he said.
As part of the annual renewal process, affected motorists will also be required to submit a medical assessment report before their licence can be approved. According to NTSA, this measure is intended to enhance road safety rather than intrude into personal health matters.
“As you renew every year, we will be asking you for a medical report. It is not about knowing what you are going through, but it will be a report just like any other,” Mr Musumba stated.
He added that the Authority’s focus is firmly on ensuring the safety of all road users, particularly as drivers grow older.
“We will be looking at this from a safety point of view. We will advise you and say that now that you are 60 years old, avoid speed, and plan your journey early,” he said.
NTSA has stressed that the proposed changes form part of long-term road safety measures under the new driver training curriculum, which places greater emphasis on the needs and limitations of ageing drivers, as well as the safety of their passengers and other road users.
However, the proposals are yet to be submitted to Parliament for consideration. For the changes to take effect, they must first receive parliamentary approval and undergo a mandatory public participation process, as required by law.
At present, all drivers—regardless of age—are required to renew their driving licences every three years, with no compulsory medical assessment required.
NTSA maintains that the proposed reforms are necessary to address emerging road safety concerns and to ensure that drivers remain fit to operate vehicles safely as they advance in age.
Also Read: Night of Fear as Earth Tremor Hits in Several Kenya Counties
Drivers Over 60 Face Annual Licence Renewal Under New NTSA Proposals