This is no exception at the age of 85 when drivers are required to sit a practical driving test every second year to review their driving ability and safety. For many this is a worrying time and may cause distress.

For some, it is a timely reminder that they may choose to stop driving and surrender their driver’s licence, however for the majority it feels like a hurdle they must jump to keep their mobility and freedom to travel where ever and whenever they choose.

The process is not as complicated as it may seem at first. At age 75 you will be required to have a medical report every year with your GP to assess your ability to drive. This includes a vision check and general medical physical. The GP will complete the RMS form you were sent and this is then handed in to the RMS office or posted in to the RMS to update your licence records.

At age 85 years, you will receive a letter, approximately 6-8 weeks before your birthday asking you to complete a medical and a practical driving test. It is important that you complete and hand in the medical form BEFORE you attend to do your driving test or assessment.

If the doctor approves your medical you can then attend a driving test at the RMS which is free of charge.  You will need to book a date and time to do this with your RMS office.

You may also elect to choose a private assessor to do the assessment, generally from your place of residence, and in a main town area such as Mittagong, Bowral or Moss Vale.

A private RMS accredited assessor can be found on the RMS webpage or in your local phone book under ‘driving instructor’. This service is  ‘user pay’ and you will be charged a fee; this varies between assessors. A driving assessment is an option available, where older drivers can choose to have a driving assessment from home at their own convenience. The assessment is similar to a driving test but carried out by an accredited assessor. An older driver can have as many assessments with a private assessor as they like, however they must pass an assessment before their due birthday.

Is successful your licence will be updated to show you have completed the test. If unsuccessful you will need to resit the driving test. Older drivers have a maximum of three attempts to pass their driving test if attending an RMS assessment. 

Older drivers may opt for a modified licence on their licence renewal without the need for a driving assessment. The options that can be negotiated on a ‘modified licence’ may include a radius restriction or a ‘home to town’ usually 5-10 kilometres from your residence. Modified licence holders will not be required to undertake a driving test or driving assessment. A modified licence application form is available from your local RMS office.

For more information please visit the RMS webpage at  http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/licensing/olderdriver_changes.html

You can also download a free copy of the guide to the older driver licences on this page or pick up a copy at the local RMS office.

Or visit www.highlandsdrivesafe.com.