Fury as taxi drivers over 65 told you must resit your driving test
Angry: Taxi drivers Darin Lowe and David Maud
CASTLE Point Council has been accused of being ageist after passing new rules forcing taxi drivers over the age of 65 to retake their driving test.
Fury has been sparked as older taxi drivers in the borough will now have to retake their test every three years at their own expense of £80 a time after the council amended their licensing policy last month.
The authority has advised drivers they may even need to take lessons as it will be an advanced driving test.
Concerned drivers have been left fearing for their livelihoods as if they don’t pass within three tries, they will be struck off.
Cabbies claim the move is unfounded as drivers over that age already undergo yearly medical checks to ensure they are healthy and fit enough to drive.
Bob Chapman, of Ferrymead Road, Canvey, who turns 66 next Friday, said: “I have been driving for 48 years and been a taxi driver for over 15, so I am confident in my ability. But if I fail, then that gives the council grounds for saying I am incompetent.
“The council is just picking on people of a certain age group which is disgraceful."
David Maud, 67, of Essex Way, Benfleet, who is secretary of the Castle Point Licensed Drivers Association, said: “Most of us at that age have been driving all our lives and have a wealth of experience. Everyone is opposed to it. Why should we be forced to resit our tests?
"Licenses are valid for life not just until the council says so.They are just being ageist. I wouldn’t be surprised if this leads a lot of people to go out of work, because it will just drive our overheads up."
http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/9959270 ... ving_test/
