LICENCES FOR OVER-70S NEED TO BE RENEWED EVERY THREE YEARS

THERE is no legal ban on drivers of Prince Philip’s age getting behind the wheel.

But driving licences expire when you reach 70 and must be renewed to stay on the road. Veterans must also pass the minimum eyesight test again.

They have to inform the DVLA if they suffer from any one of a wide range of illnesses.

Top of the list are conditions such as dementia, epilepsy, fainting fits, strokes and major heart problems. But elderly drivers must also tell the authorities if they suffer depression, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, paranoia, diabetes and many other ailments.

Licences for the over-70s will have to be renewed every three years.

Charity Age UK said that motorists of Philip’s age might consider giving up driving and let someone else do it for them. A spokesman said: “Reducing or giving up driving doesn’t mean the end of your independence or mobility.

“Prince Philip is better off than the vast majority of older people.

“There are plenty of people to chauffeur him around and it won’t cost him a penny.

“But for most people, having to give up their driving licence will leave a massive gap in their lives.

“Most people find adjusting to life without a car is difficult at first.”