Guide to older driver licensing in NSW
The Australian Road Rules defines an “older driver” as any driver aged 75 years or above. Older drivers must provide an updated medical review, showing they’re still fit to drive. This rule aims to improve road safety. Drivers above this age can be suffering from physical or cognitive impairments. In this guide to older driver licensing, you’ll read about how to keep your drivers licence updated.
Age Well Behind the Wheel
After 75, drivers are monitored more closely by the RTA (Roads & Traffic Authority). There are different requirements to keep a valid driving licence depending on the driver’s age. If you’re 75, you need to provide yearly medical reviews stating you’re still physically and mentally fit to drive. At some point, you may be requested to pass a practical driving exam.
Older Driver Licencing Requirements by Age
- 70 to 74 years old
There’s no specific requirement for this age band unless you hold a class MC (multi-combination) licence. In this case, you must surpass a practical driving test yearly.
- 75 to 79 years old
From this age on, you’re required to provide annual medical reviews yearly regardless of the type of licence class you hold. Those reviews include eyesight tests and reports on any long-term injury.
- 80 to 84 years old
You will receive the Guide to Older Driver Licensing by post from the Transport for NSW in this age group. If you hold an unrestricted licence, you don’t have to pass the driving tests. Still, you must provide evidence that you’re still physically and mentally able to drive before your next birthday. If you have a heavy vehicle licence, you must have a medical review and pass a practical driving assessment.
- 85 years and older
At this age, if you want to maintain your licence, you must have a medical review each year and, for an unrestricted licence, you need to successfully pass a practical driving test. For a motorcycle, you will have to do an aged Practical Skills exam every two years. Alternatively, you can opt for a modified licence.
Modified Licence
A modified licence means you get to keep driving in specific conditions and as long as you follow the licence conditions printed on the back of this document. Should this be your choice, you need not try a practical driving exam.
Unrestricted Licence
If you’re 84 or above, you must go through a practical assessment to keep your unrestricted licence. Every second year you will have to pass the practical driving exam. You can opt for your assessment to be done by an Older Driver Assessor. Those driving instructors are certified by Transport for NSW.
What Does Happen if a Driver Fails the Exam?
There’s no limit on how many times you apply for the Class C exam and, remember you will be charged a fee for each attempt. In case you don’t pass, you can opt for a modified licence. In worst cases, if your behaviour poses a threat to road users, your instructor can cancel your licence.
Conclusion
These rules are crucial to keep you and all the other road users safe. With age, more frequent eyesight tests and other exams are necessary. Passing a road rule and a practical exam is the best way to make sure everyone will be safe on the roads and streets of Australia.
If you are an older driver and would like to refresh your driving skills, get professional lessons with LTrent Driving School.