Motoring experts have called out Labour’s failure to introduce driving tests for the over-70s in the Autumn Budget.

IAMRoadSmart argued that chancellor Rachel Reeves had “missed an opportunity” to increase the take-up of older driving assessments and encourage more people to take the test to keep their licence.

Ahead of the statement last week, IAMRoadSmart proposed to remove insurance premium tax from 12% to zero for those undergoing additional driver training.

This would see motorists pay less for car insurance with rates reaching record levels earlier this year.

The chancellor instead focused on a fuel freeze and extra tax support for electric car owners.

However, there were no announcements about the introduction of driving tests for older drivers in what they consider to be a major blow.

Nicholas Lyes, IAMRoadSMart head of policy, said: “We are disappointed that the Chancellor has missed this opportunity to provide support and peace of mind for older drivers in his Budget.

“Our plan for optional, free driving assessments for over 70s would have the benefit of increasing the confidence of older drivers and a potentially positive impact on reducing collisions on our roads.”

Older drivers can take a voluntary mature driver assessment to check if they are safe behind the wheel.

Specialists from the Parliamentary Advisory Council on Transport Safety (PACTS), together with The Older Driver Task Force (ODTF), Older Drivers Forum and the University of Warwick are investigating the concept.

The new rules would see a standard set of parameters introduced across the country to ensure all older drivers comply with the same checks.

However, the tests will remain voluntary which means that road users will not be forced to take an assessment in order to keep their license and stay on the road.