AZE.US
Azerbaijan is unlikely to introduce lifelong driver’s licenses in the near future, as the current system is tied to legal, medical and international safety requirements, transport expert Eldaniz Jafarov said.
According to him, although some countries issue driver’s licenses without a fixed expiration date, Azerbaijan’s practice of issuing licenses for a limited period is based on both domestic regulations and international standards, including the requirements of the Vienna Convention.
Jafarov said one of the key reasons is road safety. As people age, their eyesight, hearing and reaction speed may decline, which makes regular medical checks important.
“After the age of 70, drivers in Azerbaijan must undergo a medical examination every two years and submit a health certificate. If they are confirmed to be fit to drive, their driver’s license is renewed,” he said.
The expert noted that the renewal process is also important for identification. Over time, a person’s appearance may change, and updating the biometric photo and document helps traffic police identify drivers more accurately.
Another factor is the constant development of traffic rules, road infrastructure and vehicle technologies. Jafarov said periodic renewal helps keep the driver’s legal responsibility up to date.
For these reasons, the idea of issuing driver’s licenses for life does not appear realistic for Azerbaijan at this stage. The current system, he said, is intended to protect road users and reduce risks linked to age-related health changes.
AZE.US