(Yicai Global) Oct. 22 -- Chinese seniors over the age of 70 will now be allowed to apply for driving licenses if they pass other health and competency tests.

Under new rules, would-be drivers of small vehicles, small cars with automatic gears and mopeds who are aged 70-plus must also be assessed for memory, judgment and responsiveness, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Security said at a press briefing today. Such applicants must also submit the results of their annual physical check-ups.

The move to scrap the upper age limit is aimed at meeting the mobility needs of an ageing population. The ministry said the new rules would not only help the elderly get a driving license, but also ensure that their physical condition meets the requirements of safe driving. That is a universally accepted practice in most countries, it added.

In addition, China will lower the minimum age requirement to drive large passenger cars and tractors from 26 to 22, and raise the upper age limit for applying for driving licenses for large- and mid-sized passenger vehicles from 50 to 60.

Editor: Peter Thomas