Peru becomes first country to bar licence renewals for drivers over 80

Peru has become the first country in the world to introduce a fixed age limit for renewing driving licences, barring anyone over 80 from renewing a licence under a rule issued by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC).

The measure was enacted via Supreme Decree No. 007-2016-MTC and immediately sparked debate because of its direct impact on the elderly population. According to the regulation, the change aims to improve road safety by taking into account the psychophysical changes associated with ageing.

Stricter rules for drivers aged 70–80

Drivers between 70 and 80 years old will face significantly tougher requirements: renewal intervals are shortened and applicants must undergo more detailed medical examinations. The new rules draw a clear line between professional and non-professional licences and require comprehensive health checks for all drivers in this age group.

The mandatory medical assessments include tests for vision, hearing, blood pressure and an evaluation of cognitive functions. Authorities say these checks are intended to identify impairments that could increase crash risk on public roads.

Peruvian officials defended the policy as a necessary response to demographic trends and the growing number of older road users, while parts of the public have criticised the move as radical and potentially discriminatory.

Similar discussions have taken place within the European Union, but the EU has so far rejected the idea of a fixed age ceiling for driving renewals on the grounds that it would unduly restrict citizens' basic rights and freedoms.

Photo: press material from the event