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5-year driver’s licences coming; Medical checkups required @ age 80- Hon Rymer

- in proposed amendments to Road Traffic Act
The Government of the Virgin Islands is planning to raise the age threshold for annual medical checks and licence renewals from 70 to 80 years. Photo: cardealermagazine.co.uk
Plans are in motion to increase the driver's licence validity period to to five years, Minister for Communications and Works Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5) has disclosed. Photo: Vehicle licensing Department/File
Plans are in motion to increase the driver's licence validity period to to five years, Minister for Communications and Works Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5) has disclosed. Photo: Vehicle licensing Department/File
The Virgin Islands’ transportation architecture is slated for an upgrade, according to Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer (R5). Photo: Facebook
The Virgin Islands’ transportation architecture is slated for an upgrade, according to Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer (R5). Photo: Facebook
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI— The Virgin Islands’ transportation architecture is slated for an upgrade, according to Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer (R5), who has announced proposed changes to the Road Traffic Act, with a focus on embracing technology and extending the validity of driver’s licences.

Hon Rymer was at the time speaking during the April 30, 2025, broadcast of Virgin Islands Voice, at which time he disclosed key amendments currently being prepared for the House of Assembly.

“We are moving that as well, where we embrace technology and, speaking from the Department of Motor Vehicles standpoint, we are also moving towards amending the Road Traffic Act, but we are also working towards changing the years of your driver's licence.”

One of the proposed changes, he explained, is the extension of the standard driver's licence validity period. Currently, drivers can only obtain a licence for a maximum of three years.

According to Hon Rymer, however, plans are in motion to increase this period to five years, thereby reducing the frequency and administrative burden of renewals.

“Where it's three years now, the longest you can get, but we're moving towards five years,” he confirmed.

Annual physicals

The Minister also announced the intention to raise the age threshold for annual medical checks and licence renewals from 70 to 80 years. At present, drivers who reach the age of 70 are required to undergo annual physical examinations and are only issued a one-year licence thereafter.

“I think we're extending the year when you're a senior to 80 years where you, right now once you turn 70, you have to go annually, get a physical, and get your license for one year, and so we are moving that as well... that would be done at 80 years,” Hon Rymer stated.

5 Responses to “5-year driver’s licences coming; Medical checkups required @ age 80- Hon Rymer”

  • VIslander (06/05/2025, 12:12) Like (25) Dislike (2) Reply
    It’s about time. Some persons at 70 are a whole lot healthier than a 30 year old. We have learned to treat our bodies with respect and eat healthier.
  • FIX IT QUICKLY (06/05/2025, 12:50) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    Honourable,
    May I respectfully ask why no one has been assigned on Anegada to assist the DMV? I’ve heard multiple residents express frustration over paying for license renewals and then having to wait months before receiving their stickers for the windshield.
    This situation is unacceptable and creates the impression that the needs of Anegada are being overlooked. It feels as though Anegada is being treated like it’s “behind God’s back” — with little respect, unity, or consideration shown toward the people living here.
    I truly believe this is an issue that deserves urgent attention and correction.
    Thank you for your time and understanding.
  • Fit looks a Fiddle (06/05/2025, 12:59) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    I agree with this move. 70 is the new 50. Those youngsters can’t move like us. They live a sedentary lifestyle. Always booking their necks on electronics and sickness taking over. We eat healthier by far and full of energy.????????????????
  • BUSY BEE (06/05/2025, 13:13) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    Great!!!
    When? How soon?
  • refund (06/05/2025, 13:55) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
    For those 70+ seniors enduring their annual license renewal and physical exam how about a REFUND for all the renewal fees and doctor bills!!!

    Also what will be the fee for a 5 year BVI drivers license??


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