For older drivers, driving is not just a mode of transport – it’s their freedom. That explains why many older drivers don’t want to give it up easily. So, when should older driver to give up their licence?
While the news headlines often send the message that older drivers are dangerous, the research doesn’t support this theory.
UQ Aging Mind Initiative co-director and clinical neuropsychologist Dr Nancy Pachana, who specialises in elder driving safety, said decades of driving research had found that older drivers were just as safe as younger adults on the roads.
“If older drivers are in good health then there is no reason why they should not drive up to and well beyond age 70,” Dr Pachana said.
“Their greater years of driving experience on the roads actually makes them less likely to be in an accident.”
Queensland Brain Institute researcher Dr Jaqueline Liddle, who researches the impact of retirement from driving, said age was not a good indicator of skill.
“Driving performance is more related to health rather than age. There can be safe drivers at any age,” Dr Liddle said.
At what age do I need to carry a medical certificate to drive?
In Queensland, if you are 75 or older, or you have a medical condition affecting your ability to drive, you must obtain a medical certificate from your doctor in order to continue driving. Once you turn 75 you will need to download and print the Medical certificate for motor vehicle driver form and get your doctor to sign it. Medical certificates are valid for 13-months. So you will need to revisit your doctor each year for a medical assessment to determine if you are still fit to drive.
An ‘M’ will be shown on your licence as a condition and you must carry the medical certificate at all times when driving. If you don’t have the certificate on you and the police request it, you could face a fine.
Your doctor can suggest limitations or conditions to be placed on the driver’s licence. They may also suggest that a formal driving assessment be carried out to test your ability to drive safely.
When a driving assessment is required
If your doctor needs further information to make an assessment they may require you to see a specialist. Alternatively you might have to undertake a driving assessment to assess your fitness to drive. If this happens you may not be able to drive until the assessment is finalised.
Unfortunately, this can cause stress and expense for older drivers. Often many seniors might feel like it’s easier to hang up their keys instead.
What age do you have to stop driving?
With no set age for handing in your licence, Queensland Transport relies on the older drivers themselves. This should include self-assessing their driving skills and being aware of early warning signs that their driving may be suffering.
The RACQ self-assessment questionnaire is a good way to assess your fitness to drive. You can then discuss your results with your doctor during your yearly medical assessment.
