For Australians aged 70 and over, renewing a driver’s licence comes with an added set of requirements aimed at maintaining safety on the roads while catering to the independence of older Australians. The framework which integrates both health screenings and online as well as in-person options ensures older drivers are able to drive with confidence.
Who Needs a Health Check and When?
Medical assessments over the age of 75 with a 2-year gap are mandatory but some states do have stricter policies. For those aged 70 to 74, a renewal vision test is mandatory and for those 74 and above,2 year vision tests are mandatory. Not booking these medical assessments well in advance of expiry date could result in suspension of the medical license.
Fees to be Paid, Applications, and the Small Details
Renewal fees differ from one state to another, falling within the range of AUD 50 to AUD 80. Senior citizens that are eligible for pension discounts are sometimes offered lower fees. Remember to check your state’s transport website for eligibility. Remember to bring proof of identity (passport or birth certificate) and your current licence to the Service Centre.
| Age Range | Required Tests | Frequency | How to Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70–74 | Vision Test | Every renewal (1–5 yrs) | Online or Service Centre |
| 75–84 | Vision & Medical Assessments | Vision: renewal; Medical: 2 yrs | Medical Practitioner / Service NSW |
| 85+ | Vision & Medical Assessments | Vision: renewal; Medical: annual | GP / Approved Medical Panel |
Staying Safe On The Road
Ensuring a stable and a healthy lifestyle drives helps meet important regulations, but it also helps early detection of health issues such as cataracts and sleep apnoea that can make driving riskier. Keeping your GP up to date with new medications or health changes helps in getting appropriate recommendations regarding the ability to drive.
Online vs In Person: Choosing Your Renewal Path
Due to the ease and accessibility of the online transport portal, renewing online is available for the age up to 79 as long as prior medical assessments are not overdue. For those that do need a vision or health check, partial online submissions allow for medical form submissions which can be lodged at a Service Centre. For in-person bookings, pre-booked online appointments significantly decrease wait times.
Fees, Forms, and Fine Print
In various states, renewal fees range from AUD 50 to AUD 80 for a five-year license. Seniors that qualify for pension concessions may receive discounted fees. It’s important to check your state’s transport website for eligibility. Also, be sure to bring proof of identity such as a passport or birth certificate along with your current licence to the Service Centre.
Renewing a driver’s licence after the age of 70 is easy as long as the steps are clear: book a vision and medical check appropriate for age, select a renewal option that is most convenient, and gather necessary documents.
