Why Do Driving Licences Need to Be Renewed Every Five Years?

Driving licences (SIM) are not only a legal requirement for driving but also proof that drivers remain fit and competent to operate vehicles on the road.

Therefore, SIMs have an expiry date and must be renewed every five years to ensure holders’ physical, mental, and driving abilities meet safety standards.

In addition to updating driver data, the renewal process is part of government efforts to reduce traffic accidents caused by age-related health issues and declining motor skills.

AKBP Prianggo Malau, Subdirector of Regident at the Central Java Provincial Police Traffic Unit, stated that SIMs are valid for five years and must be renewed before expiry.

Meanwhile, Sony Susmana, Training Director of Safety Defensive Consultant Indonesia (SDCI), said SIMs need an expiry date to require periodic renewal every five years.

“This is to monitor holders’ competency. If necessary, specific regulations should limit SIMs, particularly for the elderly, such as renewing them annually,” Sony told Kompas.com.

Sony stressed that policymakers must understand that drivers’ behaviour and physical condition change with age.

“SIM ownership should have limits. For instance, those aged 50 and above should undergo annual assessments to check motor skills and coexisting health conditions,” he said.

He added that if a driver is deemed no longer competent, authorities can revoke their SIM to ensure road safety.

Sony also highlighted the importance of more rigorous testing for elderly drivers, as accident risks rise when health and driving competency are not properly monitored.

“Elderly individuals typically do not undergo regular general health checks. Therefore, from a road safety perspective, elderly drivers’ competency must be controlled through SIM renewals,” he said.