Driving tips and licence rules for seniors
As we get older, physical and mental changes can affect the way we drive. That does not mean older drivers are automatically unsafe. Many people continue to drive confidently and responsibly well into later life.
However, once you reach certain age milestones, licence renewal requirements in NSW and the ACT change. Understanding these rules, along with the steps you can take to support your health, can help you stay safe and independent on the road.
This guide covers senior licence renewal requirements, driving tests and assessments, practical ways to support your physical and mental wellbeing, and the importance of monitoring eye health, including age-related macular degeneration.
What are the rules around licence renewal for seniors?
There is no maximum age limit for holding a driver licence in NSW or the ACT. However, from age 75 onward, additional requirements apply.
NSW drivers aged 75 to 84
From age 75, NSW drivers must complete an annual medical assessment with their doctor to renew their licence. Depending on medical advice, you may also be asked to complete an older driver assessment.
NSW drivers aged 85 and over
From age 85, drivers must:
- Complete a yearly medical assessment
- Pass either a practical driving test or a driving assessment every two years to keep an unrestricted licence
Drivers aged 85 and over may also choose a modified licence, which places conditions on when or where they can drive but removes the need for a practical driving test.
ACT drivers
ACT licensing requirements may differ from NSW, so drivers should check directly with Access Canberra for the latest medical and renewal obligations.
Licence requirements for drivers over 85
In NSW, before your 85th birthday you get to decide whether you’d like to keep an unrestricted driver’s licence, or choose a modified licence. You’ll then revisit this decision every 2 years.
If you opt to keep an unrestricted driver’s licence after 85, you’ll need to have a yearly medical assessment and complete an on-road driving assessment every 2 years to maintain your existing licence.
What is an unrestricted driver licence?
An unrestricted licence allows you to continue driving without additional location-based conditions. To keep it, you must pass a practical driving test or authorised driving assessment every two years, alongside annual medical reviews.
What is a modified licence?
A modified licence allows you to continue driving with certain restrictions, which may include:
- Driving only within a specified local area
- Daylight driving only
- Other conditions based on medical or practical needs
This option can suit drivers who want to maintain independence while reducing driving risks.
What is the difference between a Driving Test and a Driving Assessment?
Driving Test (Service NSW)
A Driving Test is the formal practical test conducted by a Service NSW testing officer.
Key features:
- Conducted through Service NSW
- No testing fee
- Usually starts from a Service NSW centre
- Follows a structured testing format
- Assesses your ability to drive safely, follow road rules and respond to hazards
- Drivers generally have limited attempts before other licensing options may be considered
Best suited for:
- Drivers who are comfortable with formal testing
- Those who prefer the government-run option
- Drivers confident in unfamiliar test routes
Driving Assessment (Accredited Older Driver Assessor)
A Driving Assessment is carried out by a Transport for NSW accredited Older Driver Assessor, which may include eligible senior specialists such as certain NRMA Driver Training assessors.
Key features:
- Fee applies
- Conducted by an accredited private assessor
- Often begins from your home or local area
- Usually completed on familiar roads and in your own vehicle
- Can feel less stressful and more personalised
- May include practical feedback and, in some cases, refresher support beforehand
Best suited for:
- Drivers who feel anxious about formal testing
- Those wanting a more familiar environment
- Drivers who may benefit from extra preparation or confidence-building
Why you should take your assessment with driver training at the NRMA
NRMA Driving Training offers more than just an assessment – you can choose a combined Refresher and Assessment when making your booking. This allows you time to feel comfortable with the assessor in the car before the assessment begins. It also gives your instructor the opportunity to identify areas for improvement early on, postponing the formal assessment if required and instead booking in for some follow up refresher lessons.
Be assured that NRMA has your best interests at heart. Keeping you safe on our rapidly changing road conditions is our number one priority.
Our friendly instructors are trained to build your confidence and assist you to continue to hold your licence.
Your health and driving
Ageing brings physical and mental change. While these changes can, and do, have an effect on your driving skills, getting older does not automatically make you a poor driver – nor does it mean you will lose your licence. You have control over lifestyle choices that may affect your health, which in turn affects your driving.
No matter what your condition or age, there is some type of exercise or activity that will benefit you. You could try:
- Walking
- Gardening
- Swimming or aquarobics
- Bowling
- Dancing
- Strength training
Before starting any new exercise program, speak with your doctor or GP.
Mental fitness matters too. Activities such as reading, puzzles, crosswords and social engagement can help maintain concentration and cognitive sharpness.
Safe driving tips
Maintain visibility
If turning your head is difficult, ensure your mirrors are properly adjusted and consider vehicle features that improve visibility.
Choose the right vehicle
Power steering, reversing cameras and modern driver assistance features may make driving easier and safer.
Avoid fatigue
Drive when well-rested and take regular breaks on longer trips.
Leave more space
Give yourself time to react by staying at least three seconds behind the car in front of you. Watch out for other drivers and anticipate danger.
Plan ahead
Avoid peak traffic, poor weather or night driving if these situations feel more challenging.
Older drivers and macular disease
One of the most significant health issues affecting older drivers is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older Australians.
What is age-related macular degeneration?
One common reason older Australians stop driving is AMD, which is the leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness in Australia.
Seen mostly in people aged over 50, one in seven Australians show some evidence of the disease, yet many don't even know it.
There are hundreds of thousands of NRMA Members over the age of 50, so there is a good chance you or a loved one could unknowingly be living with a sight-stealing disease.
What is age related macular degeneration?
Age related macular degeneration is an eye condition which affects the central part of your retina called the macula.
It causes progressive changes to your central vision, affecting the ability to read, drive, recognise faces and perform activities that require detailed vision.
Macular degeneration is caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include age, family history and smoking. But while it's not possible to change your family history or age, it is possible to reduce the risk of macular degeneration or slow progression of this by making positive diet and lifestyle changes.
Early symptoms and prevention
It is possible to have the very early signs of macular degeneration without even knowing. This is why it is vital to have regular vision tests by an eye care professional, particularly if you are at risk of the disease due to age, lifestyle factors or family history.
The Macular Disease Foundation Australia, a charity committed to reducing the incidence and impact of macular disease has outlined the following early signs to be aware of:
- Difficulty in reading or any other activity which requires fine vision
- Distortion where straight lines appear wavy or bent
- Difficulty distinguishing faces
- Dark patches or empty spaces appear in the centre of your vision
- The need for increased illumination, sensitivity to glare, decreased night vision and poor colour sensitivity may also indicate something is wrong.
If you or a loved one have already been diagnosed with macular degeneration, the foundation can also provide guidance and support to help with all aspects of the disease, including low vision, treatment and support services.
Staying safe behind the wheel
Getting older does not automatically mean giving up driving. By understanding licence requirements, staying physically and mentally active, and monitoring your health, many senior drivers can continue driving safely for years to come.
The key is to be proactive, regular medical check-ups, honest self-assessment and practical support can help you maintain both safety and independence.
