Australian drivers aged 70 and older will have to undergo new mandatory health evaluations as part of their refresher examination, effective from 2025. These measures are being put in place as the population of the aged drivers continues to grow, raising the need for ensuring medical fitness to drive.
Concerns for the Change
There is a sharp increase in fatalities for older drivers. Deaths in the driver age group of 75+ surged by almost 14% in the 12 months preceding June 2025. This marks worrying trends of risks associated with aging and driving, particularly the cognitive decline, vision impairment, and the decline in physical health capable of influencing one’s reactions and decision-making abilities while driving.
What Drivers Can Expect
Health evaluations for older adults include a detailed examination of their health concerning vision, reasoning skills, mobility, and medication considerations. In contrast, New South Wales requires yearly assessments starting at 75, and Queensland is one of the states with the most stringent rules, including checks for certain medical conditions at 65 and mandatory checks at 75.
These assessments often include trips to the GP who will validate and endorse the medical certificates for licensing. These assessments include hearing, mental evaluation, physical coordination, and the effects of medication, alongside driving skills, and most importantly, visual acuity and peripheral vision.
Mandatory Health Screenings for Australian Drivers Aged 70+ — 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Year | 2025 |
| Affected Group | Drivers aged 70 and older |
| Purpose of Change | Ensure medical fitness to drive due to growing aged driver population and rising safety concerns |
| Safety Concerns | 14% increase in driver fatalities aged 75+ in 12 months before June 2025; cognitive decline, vision impairment, physical health decline affecting driving safety |
| Health Evaluation Components | Vision tests (acuity, peripheral vision), reasoning & cognitive skills, mobility, hearing, medication impact, physical coordination |
| State-Specific Rules | – New South Wales: yearly assessments starting at 75 – Queensland: medical condition checks from 65, mandatory checks from 75 |
| Assessment Process | Medical evaluations by GP; certification required for licensing |
| Additional Testing Includes | Mental evaluation, physical coordination, medication effects, functional driving skills |
| Reasoning Behind Assessments | Monitor and manage age-related health factors impacting safe driving |
| Outcome for Drivers | May influence license renewal or driving conditions based on medical fitness |
| Public Safety Goal | Reduce accidents involving elderly drivers |