Older Driver assessment

In New South Wales (NSW), the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) provides a program called the Older Driver Assessment Scheme (ODAS) to assess the driving abilities of elderly drivers. The purpose of the program is to ensure that elderly drivers can continue to drive safely while considering any age-related changes that may affect their driving skills.An Older Driver Assessment is a driving assessment for Class C licence holders aged 75 and over who need to complete a driving assessment at the recommendation of their medical practitioner. Older driver’s aged 85 with an unrestricted Class C licence also need to pass a driving assessment every second year if they wish to retain their licence.

These assessments can be provided by a Testing Officer from Roads and Maritime Services, Service NSW or by a TfNSW Accredited Older Driver Assessor.

Accredited Older Driver Assessors are approved by TfNSW to conduct older driver licensing assessments for drivers aged 75 and above.

The Older Driver Assessment is for Drivers in NSW that are over the age of 75.  The over 75 age group that want to stay on a full unrestricted licence have to complete a medical by their doctor to prove they are fit to drive, every year.  At age 85, a driving assessment is required to stay on a full licence .  A modified licence is available to those who do not want to drive more than 10-15 km from their home address; no driving test is required then.  A qualified driving instructor who is an Older Driver Assessor can conduct the assessment/ Driving test for the 85 plus age group .

This can be another beneficial qualification for driving instructors to obtain and conduct Aged Assessments.  If you have availabilities in your diary during the day these can be filled by doing OD assessments.  Some driving instructors may find this beneficial for their business”.
Here are some key points regarding the Older Driver assessment in NSW:.

• Older Driver Assessment: The RMS encourages elderly drivers to self-assess with older driver assessor for their driving abilities regularly, considering any physical or cognitive changes that may impact their driving skills. If they have concerns about their ability to drive safely, they can voluntarily participate in the assessment program.
• Medical Assessments: As part of the assessment process, elderly drivers may need to undergo a medical examination conducted by their general practitioner or a specialist. The purpose is to identify any medical conditions or medications that may affect their driving abilities.
• Older Driver Assessment: The driving assessment involves a practical on-road test conducted by a qualified assessor. The assessor evaluates the driver's ability to control the vehicle, observe road conditions, follow traffic rules, and make appropriate decisions while driving.
• ”Recommendations