China to allow over-70s to apply for driver's licenses

China will allow citizens over 70 to apply for driver's licenses, on condition that their health meets the requirements for safe driving, the Ministry of Public Security announced on Oct 22.

From Nov 20, citizens over 70 will be allowed to apply for driver's licenses for small vehicles and mopeds, the ministry said at a press conference.

Applicants are required to pass assessments on their memory, judgment, and reactions, as well as having annual health checkups and submitting the results, said the ministry.

Considering the increasing life expectancy and improving the health of Chinese citizens, more aged people will need to drive or learn to drive, said Liu Yupeng, an official with the ministry, adding that the move aims to meet the new demands of the nation's aging population.

The upper age limit eligible for driver's licenses for large and medium-sized passenger or freight vehicles will be raised from 50 to 60, according to the ministry.