S2E6: 65 going 85, how old is too old to drive a car?

Apr 15, 2025

21:18

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Eyesight and vehicle costs are major concerns for seniors who drive.

Synopsis: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month, The Straits Times examines not just vehicle prices but wider transport issues and trends connected to public and private transport.

Mr Danny Yeo has been driving since 1974. The 75-year-old has no issues passing the medical check-up required to maintain his licence. Still, the freelance actor thinks that he would probably hang up his car keys when he turns 85 as he expects his reflexes to decline. He said among his peers, failing eyesight is the most common reason for them to stop driving, as is the cost of keeping a car, which has been rising together with the high certificate of entitlement (COE) premiums.

Highlights (click/tap above):

2:38 He paid $5,000 for used Fiat in 1974

5:42 The medical check-up needed every three years to revalidate the licence for drivers aged 65 and above

8:03 Listen to your body - don't just depend on medical checkups

10:50 A driving test for seniors above 70 to ensure that they are fit to drive?

19:00 If you have issues that make driving dangerous, stop for the sake of other drivers and pedestrians.

Read Lee Nian Tjoe's articles: https://str.sg/wt8G

Follow Lee Nian Tjoe on LinkedIn: https://str.sg/iqkJ

Read more COE articles: https://str.sg/iGKC

Host: Lee Nian Tjoe (niantjoel@sph.com.sg)

Produced & edited by: Amirul Karim

Executive producers: Ernest Luis and Lynda Hong