Incheon City to Provide Up to 200,000 Won for Elderly Drivers Who Return Their Licences... "Strengthening Support for Actual Drivers"

Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) is significantly enhancing the benefits of the 'Voluntary Licence Return System' to reduce the accident rate among elderly drivers and create a safer walking environment.

On the 2nd, Incheon City announced that starting from 2026, the incentive for elderly drivers who voluntarily return their licences will be increased from the current 100,000 Won to a maximum of 200,000 Won. This measure aims to encourage the return of licences from elderly individuals who are actually driving, thereby achieving a practical accident prevention effect.

Following the amendment of related ordinances last year, which lowered the return age from 70 to 65, the city will also provide an additional 100,000 Won starting this year if 'actual driving status' is confirmed. Consequently, elderly individuals who return their licences after actually driving will be able to receive a total incentive of 200,000 Won.

The application target is drivers aged 65 and over residing in Incheon City. Those with a valid driver's licence can visit their local administrative welfare centre in their residential area, and the application will be processed immediately. However, to receive the additional 100,000 Won incentive, applicants must submit documents that can prove their actual driving status, such as a vehicle registration certificate or car insurance policy in their name.

The incentive will be provided in the form of the Incheon Love Gift Certificate, known as the 'Incheon e-um Card'. Notably, the Incheon e-um Card is equipped with a transportation card function that allows payment for subway and bus fares nationwide, which is expected to provide practical convenience for the elderly who need to use public transport after returning their licences.

The reason Incheon City is strengthening these support measures is to proactively prevent the surge in traffic accidents involving elderly drivers as society ages. Jang Cheol-bae, the head of the city's transportation department, stated, "I hope this expansion of the system will serve as a safety device that protects the lives of elderly drivers and all citizens," and added, "We will continue to discover and implement traffic safety policies that are highly perceptible to the public."

Detailed information on the application process and required documents can be obtained through the transportation-related department of the local district office in the area of residence.