About the publisher: Driver’s licenses shouldn’t be so easy to renew no matter how old you are. If you have had a fine or an accident, you must demonstrate that you still have driving skills and knowledge. Navigating the streets with a deadly weapon is not a right but a privilege. (“Who is more dangerous behind the wheel of drivers 70+ or ​​30+?” column, March 25)

If you’ve lived with someone with dementia, you know that their judgment is diminishing, but their belief in being a safe driver isn’t. It is almost impossible to convince a loved one with dementia to stop driving. Only the RDW has the authority to tell you this. I have experienced this three times with elderly relatives.

As someone approaching 80, I can definitely show that I know the laws and rules of the road.

Carol Nelson-Selby, San Luis Obispo

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About the editor: I am almost 90 and recently had to take the Pomona DMV written exam. Even though I had an appointment, I still had to queue for two hours. I studied the book for a week and got all the questions right on the practice test.

After the eye test and taking pictures, I took the computer-based test. I told the saleswoman that I had never used a computer before, but she told me that the computer format was the only option.

I was so tired and nervous from the long wait that I failed the test. The clerk said I could come back another day to test again, but I didn’t want to go through all the stress of standing in line amidst the unmasked crowd again.

That’s why I decided not to renew my driver’s license. I’ve been driving for 65 years with no speeding ticket and only one minor accident.

Thelma Banks, Claremont

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About the editor: However, so as not to contradict concerns about age discrimination at the RDW, I’d like to make a few comments based on my recent experience getting my driver’s license renewed at age 77.

Visiting the DMV in person doesn’t have to be the nightmare we all remember. Appointments are available and scheduling an appointment saves a lot of time and hassle. Completing the application and paying the fees can be done online in minutes.

A short overview course is available on the DMV website and consists of seven short chapters on practical topics such as yielding, road signs and DUI laws. Each chapter is followed by a short quiz. You can take this course as slowly or quickly as you like.

I was pleasantly surprised to discover on my personal visit that this quiz series counted as my written knowledge test and that all that was needed to complete my application was a digital fingerprint, a recent photograph and a signature. I was out in about 10 minutes.

James Bartlett, Los Angeles

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About the publisher: I am 78 years old and I think we oldsters should be required to do real tests behind the wheel to keep our licenses.

Discrimination is sometimes justified. Young people should not be sold alcohol and old people should show extensive driving skills. Information processing and responsiveness decrease over time.

Paul Malykont, Los Osos