The government has outlined a number of new requirements designed to improve road safety for lorry, bus and motorcycle drivers.
As part of the new proposals, which will come into effect in 2013, drivers operating across the haulage industry will need to prove they are fit and able before taking to the roads.
Under present legislation, bus and lorry drivers over the age of 45 are required to renew their licenses every five years, as well as undergoing a full medical check-up.
The new laws will now see the scheme extended to under-45s, who will also have to prove their medical fitness and update their licence every five years to continue driving.
Noel Shanahan, chief executive of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, said most British haulage and bus operators already operate to high levels of safety.
"This new measure will provide an additional reminder but we are proposing to introduce this in a way that minimises the impact on drivers," he added.
Last month, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents claimed that all companies should focus on providing assessment and tailored training for each individual driver to help improve skills and keep employees safe on the roads.
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