Bangkok:Lifetime driver's licenses in Thailand will not be abolished yet, as clarified by the Deputy Minister of Transport. The proposal to potentially cancel these licenses was presented during a road safety seminar, where it was emphasized that a thorough study is necessary before any action is taken.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, addressed circulating news about the potential cancellation of lifetime driver's licenses. He clarified that the topic was merely introduced at a forum focused on reducing road accidents, with no prior plans in place. During the forum, a doctor highlighted examples from other countries where senior citizens are encouraged to return their lifetime licenses in exchange for free public transportation, a consideration given Thailand's aging population and the growing number of accidents involving elderly drivers.

The Deputy Minister stressed the need for a comprehensive discussion and examination of the proposal's advantages and disadvantages before any practical steps are implemented. Although lifetime driver's licenses were previously held by approximately 10 million individuals, they are no longer issued.

The current regulations specifically affect individuals applying for a new driver's license. Those aged 55 and older must pass a physical fitness test based on academic guidelines for road safety to obtain a new license.