When Should Dad Stop Driving? A Conversation Guide
Warning signs, the AARP driving evaluation, and how to bring it up without losing the relationship.
Reviewed by Yolanda Pierce, RN, Care ManagerLast updated March 8, 2026
Aging well in Central Texas is rarely about one big decision. It's a sequence of small, well-timed ones - and most families feel like they're improvising.
Our advisors wrote this guide the way we'd explain it to our own parents: in plain language, without selling anything, and with the local context that matters.
If you have a specific situation, you can always reach out for a free, 20-minute conversation with the right advisor in our network.
Frequently asked
Quick answers for Central Texas families
- What are the warning signs an older driver should stop?
- Getting lost on familiar routes, new dents on the car, near-misses, slower reaction time, drifting between lanes, and family members refusing to ride with them are all red flags worth taking seriously.
- Is there a driving test for seniors in Texas?
- Texas requires in-person renewal and a vision test starting at age 79. A doctor can also request a Medical Advisory Board review at any age. Independent OT-led driving evaluations are available through Baylor Scott & White and other Austin hospitals.
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