Italy Withdraws Driving Restrictions for Over-85s

Italy's government has reversed its decision to implement driving restrictions for individuals aged 85 and above. The initial proposals had included a ban on driving on highways and a limit of 100 kilometers from their place of residence. These measures will not be enacted.

Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Matteo Salvini, explicitly requested the removal of these provisions from the revised legislation. Instead, the government is considering introducing more rigorous health assessments for older drivers to ensure the safety of all road users. The specific details and procedures for these enhanced medical evaluations are yet to be determined.

Under current Italian law, drivers' licenses are subject to more frequent renewals for older individuals. Those over 80 years old must renew their license every two years. In certain circumstances, if a license has expired for more than five years, a practical driving test may be required to regain driving privileges.

The withdrawn proposals were part of a broader reform of driving license renewal procedures. The original plan would have required older drivers to either consent to the electronic sharing of their health records or face automatic restrictions upon reaching 85 years of age, unless their driving capacity was separately assessed.