Traffic Study calls for new rules for driving aptitude tests for senior citizens
A report has revealed significant shortcomings in the testing of older people's fitness to drive in Switzerland. The authors call for uniform rules throughout the country, according to the study commissioned by the Federal Roads Office (Astra) on Tuesday.
12.05.2026, 01:00
SDA
According to the report, current practice for assessing the fitness to drive of people over the age of 75 is fragmented and inconsistent. The research was conducted by the Lausanne School of Social Work and Health and the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW).
The authors also criticized the validity of current test methods. Cognitive tests alone do not provide a reliable indication of road safety. Standardized driving in real traffic is considered the most reliable method, but there is a lack of trained specialists for this.
The experts therefore propose a standardized test, a four-stage assessment system and mandatory training for doctors conducting the tests.
