Japan National Police Agency to enhance elderly driver skill tests

The National Police Agency has released a report proposing enhancements to driving skill examinations for elderly drivers aged 75 and older. Following an analysis of accidents involving elderly drivers, the agency plans to introduce a ‘direction change’ test to the examination process. This new requirement aims to assess a driver's ability to simultaneously manage steering, acceleration, and braking while monitoring multiple points of information, such as rear and side views.

The move comes after data showed that even those who pass current examinations remain at high risk for accidents. Specifically, the rate of accidents involving ‘improper operation’ was significantly higher among those aged 75 and older compared to younger drivers. The report also noted that pedal misapplication—mistaking the accelerator for the brake—accounts for a large portion of fatal accidents in this age group.

In addition to the new maneuver, the agency intends to introduce ‘failure to confirm safety’ as a new deduction item and will raise the penalty standards for failing to come to a complete stop. The National Police Agency will continue to evaluate further measures, including expanding the target group for examinations and coordinating with support car-limited licenses.