While the myriad rules and regulations enforced by the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) apply to drivers of all ages and stages, the state imposes some special requirements and restrictions on older drivers.
Missouri state 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, Missouri:
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 three years; those ages 21 to 69 must renew every six years. Drivers under age 21 must also renew every three years. However, if the person renewing their license is not a U.S. citizen, the expiration date may be sooner, based on the expiration date of the document they submit to prove their identity and eligibility for a driver's license.
Vision test: Required at renewal. DOR personnel will conduct a test free or may request that a driver have an exam performed by an outside licensed ophthalmologist or optometrist, who must complete a Report of Eye Examination.
Written test: Required only if the DOR receives indications of possible driver impairment.
Road test: Required only if the DOR receives indications of possible driver impairment.
Road sign recognition test: A road sign recognition test is also required at renewal.
The DOR can place restrictions or conditions on a person's driver's license. The most common restriction for older drivers is to require glasses or corrective contact lenses.
In Missouri, other common requirements the DOR may impose on older drivers include:
The Missouri DOR will accept information about a potentially unsafe driver from a driver examiner, license clerk, family member, law enforcement officer, physician, physical therapist, occupational therapist, chiropractor, registered nurse, psychologist, social worker, professional counselor, optometrist, or emergency medical technician. This person making the claim must complete the Driver Condition Report and return it to the Driver License Bureau as indicated on the form. All information reported will be kept confidential unless released by a court order.
A completed Driver Condition Report must also be presented when renewing a license if a driver has had epileptic seizures, convulsions, or blackouts within the last six months.
For additional information, see How to Report an Unsafe Driver in Missouri.
Procedures for getting back a license that has been suspended or revoked in Missouri differ according to circumstances. For specific information in a particular case, contact one of the DOR license offices located throughout the state.
Disabled person parking placards can be issued to drivers with impaired mobility if a licensed medical practitioner certifies the condition.
Temporary or permanent disability placards are available for those who:
To obtain a disabled placard or plate:
For more information, see "Permanent Disabled Placard" or "Temporary Disabled Placard."
The DOR website has a wealth of information for Missouri drivers, including links to complete explanations of titling and registration requirements.
Of special interest is Oklahoma's Driver Guide, which includes descriptions of driver licensing and testing requirements, along with safe driving tips and an explanation of local rules of the road. There is also an audio Driver Guide.
If you need help with an auto accident or traffic ticket, you can browse the free attorney directories on Lawyers.com or Avvo.com, two sites that are part of the Nolo family.
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