New Driving Rules for Seniors in Australia 2025: What Over-70s Need to Know

Australia is introducing updated rules for senior drivers in 2025 to improve safety without completely taking away independence. The guidelines focus on medical checks, health-based driving tests, and practical restrictions for older drivers rather than placing strict bans based on age. These changes reflect concerns around vision, reflexes, and decision-making abilities as drivers age, while ensuring seniors can continue to drive safely where possible.

Why Driving Rules Are Changing

As the Australian population ages, more people are staying on the road beyond the age of 70. While driving provides freedom and independence, health changes associated with age can affect reaction times, eyesight, and judgment. According to data, drivers over 65 are more likely to face serious accidents close to home, usually within a 65 km radius.

In Western Australia, older drivers made up 19% of serious road injuries recorded between 2016 and 2020. Instead of creating blanket bans, governments around the country are adjusting rules to ensure only those medically fit continue to drive, balancing safety with independence.

State by State Rules for Senior Drivers

Australia’s states and territories apply different requirements for older drivers, and those turning 70 and above should be aware of their state’s laws.

Western Australia

• Drivers aged 80 and over must pass annual medical tests.
• These checks assess eyesight, mobility, and general health.
• If doctors raise concerns, drivers may need to sit for a practical driving test.

Queensland

• From age 75, drivers need a medical certificate to keep their license.
• Certificates have to be renewed regularly, confirming fitness to drive.

New South Wales

• At 85 and above, drivers may move to restricted licenses.
• Restrictions could include driving only locally or during daylight hours.
• Driving tests can be required if health issues are flagged.

Victoria

• No fixed testing age is set.
• Drivers must self-report if they develop medical conditions impacting safety, such as dementia, vision impairment, or mobility problems.
• VicRoads can request medical or practical tests if concerns are raised.

Comparison of Senior Rules in Key States

State/Territory	Medical Assessment Age	Additional Restrictions
Western Australia	80+ annual medical test	Practical driving test if needed
Queensland	75+ medical certificate	Regular renewal required
New South Wales	85+	Restricted licenses such as local-only or daylight-only
Victoria	No set age	Drivers must self-report and may face tests if concerns arise

Practical Driving Assessments Explained

When health checks raise concerns, drivers may be asked to take a practical driving assessment. These tests evaluate how well someone can manage real road conditions. Examiners look at:

• Correct handling of road rules and traffic signs.
• Safe management of speed, merging, and lane changes.
• Ability to navigate complex environments such as intersections.

If test results show limitations, restrictions may be added such as:

• Driving only during daylight hours.
• Limiting travel to local areas.
• Driving only in automatic vehicles for better control.

These adjustments are tailored so older drivers can stay mobile while protecting both themselves and other road users.

Tips for Senior Drivers to Stay Safe

Adapting driving habits is just as important as meeting medical rules. Experts suggest the following tips:

• Avoid Night Driving: Reduced visibility can make hazards harder to see.
• Take Regular Breaks: Fatigue builds up more quickly with age, so breaks on longer journeys are crucial.
• Have Eye Tests Regularly: Issues such as cataracts or glaucoma can reduce safe driving ability.
• Stay Physically Active: Exercise helps maintain reflexes and flexibility for safe driving.
• Plan Routes: Choose familiar, quieter roads and avoid peak-hour traffic.
• Consider Alternatives: Rideshare services, taxis, or community transport options can help when driving feels stressful.

Why These Changes Matter

The 2025 rules aim to keep roads secure while recognising the importance of mobility for older Australians. Driving is central to independence, especially in suburban and rural areas without frequent public transport. Removing licenses based only on age would unfairly impact many capable senior drivers.

Instead, focusing on medical fitness ensures that drivers who are healthy can continue to use their vehicles, while those facing health challenges can transition smoothly into restricted driving arrangements or alternative transport.

How Seniors Can Keep Driving Longer

The best way to stay on the road is to remain proactive about health and driving skills. This means not waiting until problems arise but taking steps early on:

• Schedule regular check-ups with GPs to monitor eyesight, hearing, and reflexes.
• Take refresher driving lessons to brush up on updated road rules and sharpen confidence behind the wheel.
• Be honest about changes—if driving at night or in traffic feels stressful, adjust habits before accidents occur.
• Understand restrictions if applied, and see them as supportive rather than purely limiting. For example, a local area license still allows seniors to attend appointments, visit family, and shop independently.

Final Thoughts

Driving is a key part of independence for older Australians, but with age come health challenges that can impact road safety. The updated 2025 rules strike a balance by focusing on medical assessments and safer driving practices instead of blanket bans.

Seniors who remain proactive about health, keep their medical checks in order, and accept restrictions when required will be more likely to continue driving safely. For families, it is essential to support older relatives during this time, helping them stay confident while also promoting alternatives if driving becomes too risky.