While the myriad rules and regulations enforced by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) apply to drivers of all ages and stages, the state imposes some special requirements and restrictions on older drivers.
Louisiana's rules are explained in more detail below, but a number of them focus on identifying and handling older drivers who may have become unsafe.
Specifically, Louisiana:
Special rules apply to drivers who are 70 and older who seek to renew their licenses.
Time limits: Drivers age 70 and older must renew in person every six years. Most drivers under age 70 can renew online or by mail if they renewed their license the last time in person and they receive an invitation to renew from the OMV; otherwise, they will need to apply in person at their local OMV office.
Vision test: Required at in-person renewal. OMV personnel will conduct a test free, or drivers can have an exam performed by an outside ophthalmologist or optometrist, who must complete a Medical/Vision Form and conduct the exam within 30 days of the renewal request.
Written test: Required only if there are indications of driver impairment.
Road test: Required only if there are indications of driver impairment.
The Louisiana OMV can place restrictions on a person's driver's license. The most common restriction for older drivers is to require glasses or corrective contact lenses.
Other common restrictions in Louisiana include:
The Louisiana OMV will accept information from any source familiar with a particular driver who completes and files a Report of Driver Condition or Behavior.
In addition, a doctor may report any visual limitation or physical condition, impairment, or disability that may affect a patient's ability to drive safely by completing a Medical Examiner's Certificate.
For information on how to get back a license that has been suspended or revoked, call 225-925-6146, Option 1, or contact one of the local Motor Vehicle Reinstatement Offices located throughout the state.
Disabled person parking placards and license plates can be issued to drivers with impaired mobility if a licensed medical examiner certifies the condition.
The hang-tags and plates are available for those who:
Steps required to obtain a disabled placard or plate are:
The OMV website offers basic information for Louisiana drivers, including links to download many of the forms required to manage driving issues.
You can use Nolo's Lawyer Directory to find a local lawyer experienced in representing older people who need help with auto accidents or traffic tickets in Louisiana.
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