"user-friendly''.

Transport Minister the Hon. Ralph Marshall told The Royal Gazette yesterday his Ministry is considering changes including extending the lives of driving and vehicle licences.

He said the validity of driver's licences could be extended from five to ten years while the Ministry may reduce the frequency with which private cars must be inspected and relicensed.

It is now every year, but the Ministry is looking at a change to one inspection three years after a new vehicle is purchased, and inspections every other year thereafter.

Public service vehicle licences could also be made valid for three or five years instead of one year.

The Ministry may also increase the age at which drivers must requalify for their licence with a driving test every three years to 70 from 65, "and maybe even to 75'', reflecting increased longevity and improved health. But this would require more discussion with medical experts, he said.

"These are the types of things I would like to get done to make the Transport Control Department more user-friendly,'' Mr. Marshall said.

Outside of the TCD, formation of an airport authority is another important reform he wants to achieve in his Ministry, he said.