Hong Kong mulls lower age threshold for senior drivers to undergo fitness check

Hong Kong transport authorities are considering lowering the age threshold from 70 to 65 years for senior drivers to undergo health checks when they apply for a new license or renew it.

Established procedures see all drivers aged 70 or older produce a health certificate when applying for a new license or renewing it – either once a year or every three years, depending on the type of vehicle license they hold.

Transport chief Lam Sai-hung said on Monday that authorities are mulling lowering the age threshold while stricter health checks are also being considered.

He said more details would be announced in the coming year over the plan.

"Earlier, there were concerns about the current items for the health check, and we hope to make improvements to ensure that senior drivers are suitable for driving. This will provide us with more assurance and enhance safety,” Lam added.