In Missouri, drivers aged 70 and older have different renewal requirements for their driver’s license compared to younger drivers. These rules are designed to ensure that senior drivers remain capable of operating a vehicle safely while also maintaining their independence.
Renewal Frequency and In-Person Requirement
For Missouri drivers aged 70 and older, the renewal cycle is set at every three years, and they are required to renew their license in person. This differs from younger drivers, who typically renew their licenses every six years and may be eligible for online or mail-in renewals. An exception is made for seniors who are on active military duty and stationed out of state; in this case, they are permitted to renew by mail.
Vision and Road Sign Testing
At each renewal, seniors are required to pass a vision test to ensure they can see well enough for safe driving. In addition to the vision test, they must also pass a road sign recognition test.
These tests help identify any issues related to declining eyesight or difficulties in recognizing important traffic signs, which could affect the senior’s ability to drive safely.
Unlike the vision and road sign tests, a written knowledge test or a driving skills test is not automatically required for every renewal. However, if there are concerns about a senior’s physical or cognitive abilities, a more comprehensive evaluation, including written or road tests, may be required.
Special Rules for School Bus Drivers
For seniors holding a school bus (“S”) endorsement, the rules are stricter. These individuals are required to renew their license annually and must also pass a skills test each year after reaching age 70. This stricter requirement is due to the higher safety standards needed for individuals who transport children.
Expired Licenses and Retesting
Missouri does not provide a grace period for expired licenses. Seniors whose license has expired are not legally allowed to drive until it is renewed. If the license has been expired for more than six months, the senior must retake the vision test, road sign recognition test, and written and driving skills tests before a new license can be issued. While there is no late renewal fee, the need to retake tests can be an inconvenience, making it important for seniors to renew their licenses on time.
Required Documentation
When renewing their license, seniors must bring proof of identity, lawful status, Social Security number, and Missouri residency. Those upgrading to a REAL ID must provide additional documentation. After passing the necessary tests and paying the renewal fee, seniors will receive either their new license on-site or a temporary paper license, with the permanent card being mailed to their address.
Balancing Safety and Independence
Missouri’s approach to senior license renewal aims to balance public safety with the independence of older adults. The requirement for regular in-person renewals, along with vision and road sign tests, ensures that seniors are still capable of driving safely.
At the same time, the state avoids placing unnecessary barriers for seniors who remain fit to drive. Seniors and their families should be aware of these requirements and plan ahead for the renewal process, helping to ensure both legal compliance and safety on Missouri’s roads.
Sources
[1] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/missouri-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
[2] https://zutobi.com/us/mo-car/driver-guides/missouri-drivers-license-renewal
[3] https://dor.mo.gov/faq/driver-license/general.html
[4] https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-rules-seniors/
[5] https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
[6] https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/issuance/real-id/
