In Australia, ageing drivers do not lose the privilege of driving by virtue of their age. However, once an individual reaches the age of 70, the respective state and territory have set a course of action for licence renewal for the greater good of all on the road. This renewal system usually entails medical assessments and possibly more frequent renewals of the licence.
Why Have Age-Based Licence Rules?
With ageing, sight, reaction time, or physical mobility can change for the worse; any of these can affect a person’s driving ability. The Australian road authorities, therefore, must make older drivers meet conditions before their licences are renewed. The persistence of these conditions is meant to strike a balance between public safety and the freedom and independence of senior citizens.
After the Age of 70, Licensing Renewal
In New South Wales, motorists who are 75 years old and above must satisfy the test of a yearly medical assessment. After the age of 85, those who wish to keep their unlimited licence must undergo a practical driving test every 2 years or opt for the modified licence with fewer conditions.
Victoria imposes no testing requirements based on age; however, all drivers must inform VicRoads about any medical condition that may affect their driving. Doctors may recommend an assessment, or it can be made a requirement by the licensing authority.
Those 75 years old and above, in Queensland, must have and carry with them a Motor Vehicle Driver form Medical Certificate filled by a doctor. This certificate gets renewed yearly and has to be in the vehicle while driving.
Medical checks are to be undertaken yearly by drivers aged 80 and over; depending on medical advice, a practical driving assessment may be required at 85.
Medical and Driving Assessments
Most assessments involve drivers being taken to a GP, who would undertake an evaluation of the driver’s physical and cognitive abilities. If the GP has any concerns, a further specialist assessment or an on-road driving test may be arranged. These tests are performed for safety and not as a punishment.
The Independence and Safety Factor
Older Australians treasure their independence; many are competent drivers far into their 80s. Life license renewal promotes the capacity to be independent while ensuring that all drivers are safe on the roads. It is beneficial to familiarise oneself with the rules to allow oneself or a loved one to remain mobile and safe on the road.