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Become a safer older driver

Driving safely relies on good perception, judgement and physical capability. As you get older, some of these things can become impaired – increasing the risk of being involved in a crash.

It’s important to be aware of changes in your mind and body as you age. If you suspect that your ability to drive has been affected by ageing or a health condition, you should visit a doctor as soon as possible. If necessary, you must report the condition to Queensland Transport.

Below, you’ll find information about the common concerns and issues facing older drivers.

You may also find our Older Driver Self-Assessment Questionnaire handy. This questionnaire covers a range of issues related to safe driving, and gives you a score based on your responses. 

The Years Ahead Program

RACQ is committed to helping all Queenslanders become safer drivers. One way we do this is through free presentations to community groups; and Years Ahead is one of these popular programs.

Years Ahead is a 45 minute presentation in which older motorists learn how to become more aware of their own capabilities. It covers topics such as:

  •  Recent changes to the Queensland road rules (including roundabouts and merging)
  •  Medical considerations when driving
  •  Alternative transport options (such as motorised wheelchairs)

If you are interested in having a Years Ahead presentation at your community group, please contact the RACQ Community and Education team.

Enquire now or call 1300 853 658.
Watch the video "Years Ahead program" on YouTube.com
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Years Ahead program

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. 

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. 

Read more about your requirements to report medical conditions - Jet's Law legislation

If you would like the assurance that your driving skills are still up to scratch, you can take RACQ’s 50-minute, one-on-one Driver Assessment program. 

This practical appraisal covers: 

  •  Driving skills and behaviours
  •  Application of road rules in traffic conditions
  •  Hazards that drivers may come across in their everyday driving. 

It’s a great idea for older road users, who have relied on driving habits for many years – and these habits may not suit more recent changes to roads and traffic.

Through RACQ’s unbiased assessment, you will get an honest opinion of how you currently handle driving on today's busy roads, and how you can continue to drive safely.

Contact RACQ Drive Assist on 1800 680 039 for more information

Also check out:

Improve your driving skills

RACQ Drive Assist has a range of driving programs aimed at boosting your skills.

Learn more

Safety on the road

Brush up on your road safety skills to avoid having a car accident.

Learn more

Got Roadside Assistance?

Before you leave on your next road trip, make sure you have the right level of cover for your roadside assistance.

Learn more

The information provided here is intended as a general guide only. You should carry out further research and investigations into the topics outlined above prior to implementing any actions or recommendations.