Safe with Age

Licence renewal changes imminent for older drivers

The way older New Zealanders renew their driver licence is changing from 4 December 2006:

• The on-road driving test will no longer be mandatory for people aged 80 and over.
• Drivers renewing their licence at age at 75, 80 and every two years after that will still require a Medical certificate for driver licence from their general practitioner (GP).
• GPs will have the option of referring medically-fit drivers aged 75 and over for an On-road Safety Test if they have serious concerns about their ability to drive safely.

Advertising campaign

• A targeted print advertising campaign aimed at raising awareness of the changes begins this Thursday 16 November 2006 and will run until early December.

New Resources

• A range of new resources have been developed to support the changes.
• The campaign promotes Keeping moving - the positive guide for mature road users which explains the new licence renewal system as well as providing advice on regular self-assessment and other ways to help maintain independence safely.
• Keeping moving will be widely available through multiple channels including libraries, Age Concern offices and retirement villages.
• Keeping moving will also be used as a resource in the revised and expanded Safe with Age courses when they are introduced in February 2007. Information on the new Safe with Age programme will be available shortly.
• Keeping moving replaces the Positive guide for mature road users.
• Drivers aged 75 and over whose licences expire on or after 4 December are already being sent the Renewing your driver licence brochure in their personalised licence renewal pack. This brochure gives clear step-by-step instructions on the new licence renewal process.
• Supporting older drivers has been developed to advise family and friends on how to assist older drivers to stay independently mobile by whatever means they choose for as long as possible. This will be made available through Land Transport NZ’s offices and Citizens Advice Bureau.
• Guide to the on-road safety test is for those drivers who are referred by their doctor for an on-road safety test. To avoid confusion, this will only be available through the Land Transport NZ help desk and driver licensing agents (anyone booking the on-road safety test can obtain a copy).
• A set of Q & As is also available.
• All other resources will be available at www.landtransport.govt.nz from 16 November and can be ordered using the online publications form in the usual way.