The following is an archived video story. The text content of that video story is available below for reference. The original video has been deleted and is no longer available.

Should Limits Be Placed On Elderly Drivers?


If your elderly parents are struggling behind the wheel, it can be especially difficult to suggest that they stop driving. Some say they'll willingly give up their licenses – others will go down kicking and screaming. At the end of the day, driver's instructors will have the final word.

"I've been driving ever since I was 16 years old," says Iowa resident Norman Kohl.  At 78-years-old, Kohl knows right and wrong on the road, but he's also aware his body may not.

In fact, Kohl has a neurological disorder that affects his legs, but modern technology keeps him on the road. "It's either drive with hand controls or I wouldn't drive," he says.

Iowa has no specific age limit on driving -- a point where you will lose your license, but Lisa Hennessey with the state's department of motor vehicles says the state does require tests when age shows itself.

"An officer can request that you be tested based on a stop, or you've had an accident and you've turned left in front of somebody or you've done something. Yes, a doctor can request. A private citizen can request," says Hennessey.

In Texas, starting at the age of 79, drivers will have to renew their license in person every six years and will have to take a vision test. And starting at age 85 drivers will have to renew every two years.