The way you handle a car can quietly signal to others that you’re older than you are, especially if your habits don’t match the pace or awareness expected in today’s traffic. It’s not always about physical ability. Sometimes it’s outdated habits that haven’t kept up with the times. In 2025, with more tech in the driver’s seat and faster-moving roads, the gap between perception and reality is easy to spot. Here are nine driving behaviors that can make you seem “elderly” behind the wheel…even if you’re not.

1. Holding your phone to talk while driving

Using your phone without Bluetooth isn’t just unsafe. It instantly makes you look behind the curve. Most cars built in the last 15 years have hands-free capability, yet some drivers still fumble with speakerphone or hold the device up to their ear. In many states, that’s also illegal. The fix is easy. Sync your phone to the car’s system or use a dashboard mount. It’s safer, cleaner, and makes you look far more current.

2. Ignoring others in parking lots and shared spaces

Road manners age you, too. If you consistently roll through parking lots without looking for pedestrians or other cars, block multiple spaces, or act like the road is yours alone, people notice. Self-centered driving behavior is often associated with older drivers who’ve tuned out other road users. Being courteous, aware, and responsive is more in line with how today’s traffic actually flows.

3. Sitting way off-kilter in the driver’s seat

If we can’t see your face because your steering wheel is blocking it, that reads “anxious” at best and “elderly” at worst. Also, if you’re hunched forward because you think putting your shoulders against your seat feels like you can’t get a good grip on navigating, just know that’s not a great vibe for other drivers noticing your posture. A relaxed confidence, plus proper steering wheel and seat position, helps us all.

4. Driving too slow in the fast lane

If you’re cruising under the limit in the left lane, you’re not just disrupting traffic. You’re sending a message that you’re uncomfortable with the speed limit, or worse: you’re unaware of it. Even if you think you’re being careful, hanging out in the passing lane too long can make you seem out of touch. The left lane is for passing. Use it, then move over.

5. Hesitating at merges or on-ramps

Pausing at the top of a ramp or slowing down when merging into highway traffic makes other drivers think you’re unsure or overly cautious. It’s often a confidence issue, but the effect is the same. Smooth, decisive merging shows awareness. Uncertain moves make you look like you’re stuck in a driving mindset from another era.

6. Squinting at signs or missing speed limit changes

Vision naturally declines over time. But if you’re regularly reacting late to signs or struggling to read them at a distance, it shows. Other drivers pick up on that hesitation. Experts recommend staying on top of eye exams, using polarized sunglasses during the day, and keeping windshields and displays clean to help with contrast and glare.

7. Needing more braking distance

If you’re starting to brake far earlier than others or consistently overshooting stop signs, it could be a sign of slower reflexes. Reaction time tends to decrease with age, especially under pressure. Other drivers notice when your braking doesn’t match the rhythm of traffic. A simple fix is to increase following distance and plan stops earlier without being overly cautious.

8. Avoiding night driving

Plenty of drivers avoid the road after dark, especially in unfamiliar areas. But when it becomes a regular habit, it can signal that you’re no longer comfortable with changing conditions. Night vision gets worse with age, but that doesn’t mean you have to disappear at sunset. Understand where you’re going and how to get there before starting out. Keep headlights clean. If lights look like fuzzy balls after dark, consider a vision check and get anti-glare coatings on your glasses to stay confident regardless of the time of day.

9. Skipping blind spot checks

Over-relying on cameras and mirrors without turning your head can look like you’re compensating for limited mobility. While tech is helpful, it’s not always complete. A quick glance over your shoulder not only improves safety. It keeps you from looking like you’re phoning it in behind the wheel.

The way you drive creates an instant impression. Some behaviors quietly suggest you’re behind the times, even if you’re sharp, healthy, and fully capable. In a driving world shaped by automation, faster roads, and tighter laws, staying aware, adapting to tech, and brushing up on your road manners can go a long way in keeping you young. At least behind the wheel, anyway.