Australia is reviewing and tightening rules around licence renewal and medical fitness assessments for older drivers. As the population ages and road safety becomes more critical, governments in several states are updating regulations to ensure older drivers remain safe while preserving mobility and independence.
What’s Changing (or Proposed)
Age-Based Medical & Renewal Requirements
- In many states, drivers aged 75 and above must now undergo yearly medical assessments to evaluate fitness to drive.
- In states like Western Australia, drivers aged 80+ are already required to complete an annual medical check before renewing their licence.
- Some states also require a practical driving or “older driver” test under certain conditions or when recommended by a doctor.
Role of GPs & Driving Fitness
- There is renewed scrutiny on the role of general practitioners (GPs) in assessing older drivers’ fitness to drive. Many argue GPs alone should not be responsible since driving ability involves cognition, reaction time, vision, coordination, and more.
- Some proposals suggest more involvement from driving assessors, occupational therapists, or transport authorities in standardising assessments.
State-by-State Differences
- New South Wales (NSW): Drivers must begin medical or “older driver” assessments around age 70–75, with renewal requirements depending on licence class.
- Queensland: From age 75, drivers need annual medical certificates to show fitness for driving, and must carry the medical certificate while driving.
- Western Australia (WA): At age 80, drivers are required to provide medical assessments each time they renew. Practical driving assessments may be requested by health professionals.
- Victoria: Currently, Victoria does not impose age-based medical tests by default, but drivers with medical conditions must report them and can be asked to undergo assessments.
Why These Changes Are Happening
- Road Safety Concerns
Crash and fatality data shows rising risks associated with advanced age, especially due to slower reaction times, vision decline, cognitive changes, and health conditions. - Balancing Freedom and Public Safety
Governments aim to strike a balance: protecting road users while letting capable older persons retain their licence. - Consistency & Objectivity
By moving to standardised medical checks or assessments, less reliance on subjective GP judgment is desired, and clearer rules eliminate ambiguity.
Age & Licence Requirements by Selected States
| State / Territory | Key Age Threshold | Medical/Test Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 70 – 75+ | Medical assessment; older driver test if recommended |
| Queensland | 75+ | Annual medical certificate required; must carry while driving |
| Western Australia | 80+ | Annual medical assessment required; possible practical test |
| Victoria | None (age-based) | Mandatory only for medical conditions or if flagged |
| ACT / Others | Varies | Assessment or declarations in certain age / health cases |
Challenges & Debate
- GP Burden & Limitations
Many GPs feel unprepared or pressured to judge driving capability, particularly when a neutral, standard assessment tool is lacking. - Equity & Access Issues
For older people in rural or remote areas, access to medical assessors, driving testers, or specialty doctors may be limited. - False Alarms or Overregulation
Some argue ageing does not always equate to impaired driving; blanket policies could penalise safe older drivers unjustly.
What Drivers Over 60 Should Do
- Know Your State’s Rules
Each state/territory has different thresholds and requirements. Check your local transport or licensing authority. - Stay Healthy & Proactive
Regularly monitor vision, hearing, cognition, mobility, and any chronic conditions. - Keep Documentation Ready
Be ready for medical forms, GP reports, or driving assessments when renewing your licence. - Plan for Possible Changes
As mobility shifts, consider alternatives (restricted licences, public transport, community services). - Engage in Dialogue
Provide feedback to state transport bodies and advocate for fair, transparent assessments.
FAQs
Do I automatically need a medical check after 60?
Not in all states. The new or proposed rules usually kick in around age 75 or older, not 60.
What happens if I fail a medical or driving test?
Possible outcomes include licence conditions (e.g. “no night driving”), suspension, downgrade, or cancellation — depending on the state and severity of findings.
Can doctors refuse to sign off on my licence renewal?
Yes, if they believe your medical condition or abilities present a genuine safety risk. You may be referred for further testing.
Are there appeals?
Yes — most states provide a review or appeal mechanism if you disagree with a finding or decision.
