Old motorists could lose a variety of freedoms on UK roads once they reach 70 years of age because of a little-known DVLA rule.

Elderly drivers will automatically lose certain freedoms when they hit 70 years of age, according to leading experts. The Older Drivers Forum stressed road users will lose the right to drive heavier vehicles above 3,500kg and minibuses as they reach the milestone birthday.

This is because the DVLA will strip road users of the C1 and D1 entitlements on their driving licence, which could be a big blow for many individuals. Instead, experts have warned road users who wish to retain these allowances have to complete a series of application forms. Meanwhile, they also recommend road users will have to undergo another test to prove they are safe behind the wheel.

The Older Drivers Forum has previously explained: “Once you renew your licence at 70 years of age you will automatically lose the C1 (Medium-sized vehicles between 3500kg and 7500kg) and D1 (Minibuses) categories on your licence.

“If you wish to still hold these you will need to complete a D2 (Application Form) and a D4 (Medical Examination Report).

“Once you renew your licence at 70 years of age you will automatically lose the C category on your licence, if you wish to continue having this category on your licence you will need to do another test again.”

Motorists under 70 can apply for provisional C1 entitlement in order to drive larger vehicles if they have a full car licence. Yet, it is likely road users will be required to take a test to get higher categories added to their licence regardless of age.

Still, in another major blow, the Older Drivers Forum warns motorists’ right to get behind the wheel of motorhomes could also be affected.

This could be a serious blow to many individual retirement plans, especially towards the end of the summer when many could be considering staycation trips.

They added: “When you renew your licence at 70, many of the other entitlements to drive vehicles of other categories will be lost unless you apply for them. If you use the standard D1 or online renewal procedure, your C1 entitlement will be suspended and you will no longer be able to drive motorhomes between 3,500kg and 7,500kg until you have passed a medical.”