Elderly drivers will automatically lose one freedom on their 70th birthday due to a little-known DVLA

 policy highlighted by experts. The Older Drivers Forum, a leading advice site for elderly road users, admitted individuals will lose not be able to get beyond the wheel of larger models without further checks.

When driving licences are renewed at 70, older road users will no longer have the C1 and D1 entitlements on their photocard. The C1 category allows road users to get behind the wheel of heavier vehicles with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of between 3,500kg and 7,500kg. Meanwhile, losing the D category will mean older motorists cannot get behind the wheel of minibuses.

Individuals who wish to retain their access to these vehicles will have to undergo a separate application.

This will include a D4 medical examination report which has to be filled in by a doctor.

The Older Drivers Forum said: “Once you renew your licence at 70 years of age you will automatically lose the C1 (Medium sized vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg) and D1 (Minibuses) categories on your licence.

“If you wish to still hold these, you will need to complete a D2 (Application Form) and a D4 (Medical Examination Report).”

“Once you renew your licence at 70 years of age, you will automatically lose the C category on your licence. If you wish to continue having this category on your licence, you will need to do another test again.”

Motorists not sure of their car’s MAM rating will usually find the information on their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sticker.

This is usually fixed to a vehicle and can often be found under the bonnet or on the side of a door frame.

Driving licences must be renewed every three years in later life compared to once every 10 before the age of 70.

Experts have warned that a D4 medical report from a doctor has to be included in every renewal

if motorists wish to retain the heavy vehicle entitlement.

The Camping and Caravanning Club said: “To retain these additional (Group 2) category rights you will need to apply by post or through the Post Office and higher medical standards apply, completing additional forms D2 and D4.

“Form D4 the medical examination report has to be completed by your doctor and will require a medical examination.

“This is ‘driver’s medical’ is classed as a private appointment by most GP practices, so you will need to pay for it.

“Thereafter, your licence has to be renewed every three years and for Group 2 entitlements this means a D4 form has to accompany each renewal.”