Seniors' licenses revoked: after 68 years and one day, you can't drive anymore. | They're already treating you like old people.

Once you've passed a certain age, in certain cases it's impossible to renew your driving license. What happens?

Obtaining a driver's license is a true rite of passage, a milestone that marks the beginning of one's independence . Obtaining it requires a certain amount of time and financial commitment through the bureaucratic and training process. The process can be undertaken independently, privately, or by enrolling in a driving school.

The first step is passing the theory test . You prepare by studying the Highway Code, usually with the help of online quizzes or by attending classroom lessons. Once you pass, you receive the "permesso rosa," a permit that authorizes you to drive only when accompanied by an instructor or a companion with specific qualifications.

Next comes the practical exam . The law requires a minimum of six hours of mandatory driving with an instructor. In most cases, however, much more is needed to gain the necessary confidence , and the cost of each lesson can vary greatly depending on the driving school.

The total cost of obtaining a driving license can vary significantly . For those who opt for the private route, the cost is between €600 and €800, including fees and exams . If you choose to go through a driving school, the final cost can rise to €1,000-€1,500.

Renew your driving licence

Renewing a type A or B driving license is a mandatory procedure to ensure that every driver maintains the necessary psychological and physical requirements. The process is simple: a medical examination by a certified certifying physician will verify fitness to drive. Once approved and the ministerial fees have been paid, the new license is sent directly to the applicant's address.

Renewal deadlines vary based on the driver's age and license type. For A and B licenses, they are valid for 10 years up to age 50; they are reduced to 5 years between ages 50 and 70; 3 years between ages 70 and 80; and 2 years after age 80.

No renewal after age 68

Professional licenses, such as those in categories C1, C1E, C, and CE , are valid for five years until the driver reaches age 65. After this age, the renewal procedure changes. Those holding a C1, C1E, or C license must renew it every two years with the Local Medical Commission to verify that they still meet the eligibility requirements.

For CE license holders, the situation is slightly different: they can continue to drive heavy vehicles (over 20 tonnes) until age 68, but must renew their license annually through the CML. After age 68, the CE license is automatically downgraded to a C license, thus limiting the type of vehicles they can drive.