Taiwan Lowers Senior Driver's License Renewal Age to 70

Taiwan has implemented a new policy reducing the mandatory driver's license renewal age for seniors from 75 to 70, taking effect on May 31, 2026. This change is part of a broader initiative to enhance road safety, particularly following a fatal accident involving an elderly driver last year.

The Directorate General of Highways (DGH) estimates that the new regulations will apply to about 1.28 million drivers. To manage the process, the DGH will send out approximately 100,000 notification letters each month, guiding seniors through the renewal steps. Drivers aged 70 to under 75 must pass a physical examination and complete a road safety lecture to renew their licenses until they reach age 75. Those aged 75 and above face stricter requirements, including passing a cognitive function test or providing documentation proving they do not have moderate to severe dementia. Their licenses will need to be renewed every three years.

To facilitate these requirements, the DGH has arranged for 375 lecture locations and trained over 400 instructors. The two-hour safety lectures cover current traffic safety policies, regulations, and interactive discussions using real-life case studies. A second part of the lecture focuses on hazard perception simulations to improve drivers' awareness and skills.

Grace periods are provided for the transition: two years for those aged 70-75 and three years for those 75 and older. Failure to renew within these periods will result in a fine for driving with an expired license, ranging from NT$1,800 to NT$3,600. The DGH emphasizes that the content is designed for easy understanding by seniors, aiming to reinforce correct traffic safety concepts and skills.