/ Modified dec 23, 2014 2:16 p.m.

Older Drivers Want More Testing, Survey Says

Misperception they are less safe behind wheel, AAA Arizona says; despite that, 70% want stricter screening.

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Arizona drivers age 65 and older support more testing for people in their age bracket, a AAA study says.

More than 800,000 Arizonans 65 and older are licensed to drive, the study said, and more than 70 percent of them favor stricter screenings for license renewal, despite the fact that they are safe drivers overall.

“More than out out of 10 drivers age 65 and older favor policies that require drivers ages 75 and over to renew their license in person," Vinyard said. “More than 70 percent also support requirements that drivers 65 plus pass a medical screening to remain licensed.”

In Arizona, driver's licenses expire at age 65. After that, a person can renew license by going to a motor vehicle office for a vision test and a new photo every five years.

Vinyard said there are a number of signs that someone should consider giving up his or her license:

“For example, if you’re getting honked at repeatedly, if you’re having counseling sessions with police, family or friends, or if you’re getting in repeated fender benders, or if you’re getting lost on familiar routes, those are signs that it may be time to give up the keys.”

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