Tips for Older Drivers: Staying Safe and Confident on the Road

Updated October 2026

Driving keeps many older Australians independent and connected. As we age, changes in vision, reaction time and health can affect driving, but simple steps help older drivers stay safe and confident for longer.

Know the licence requirements where you live

• NSW: from age 75, drivers need an annual medical assessment. From 85, drivers need a practical driving assessment every two years to keep an unrestricted licence, or can choose a modified licence for local driving without a test.
• Victoria: there is no mandatory age-based medical or driving test. Medical reviews are based on health, not age.
• Northern Territory: there are no age-based requirements. All drivers have a vision test when they first apply and every five years.

In every state and territory, you must tell your licensing authority about medical conditions that may affect your driving.

Look after your health

• Have your eyesight and hearing checked regularly.
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any medicines affect driving.
• Stay active to keep flexibility for head checks and reversing.

Plan your trips

Many older drivers prefer to avoid peak traffic, night driving and bad weather. Plan routes with easier turns and good parking, and allow extra time.

Use your car's safety features

Modern features such as reversing cameras, blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking can help. Make sure your seat and mirrors are set up well, and consider a car that is easy to get in and out of.

Refresh your skills

Road rules change over time. A refresher lesson with a professional instructor is a practical way to update your knowledge, check your driving habits and build confidence, especially before a driving assessment.

Know when to adjust

Signs that it may be time to change how you drive include near misses, getting lost on familiar routes, or family members raising concerns. Adjusting your driving, such as avoiding night driving, can help you stay independent for longer.