Licensing in Australia is determined by each state, with large differences in the requirements for re-licensing of older drivers. Unlike Australia, New Zealand has national requirements. In the majority of these jurisdictions, re-licensing of older drivers is age-based, requiring submission of periodic medical and vision tests and in some instances, an on-road driving test as well. One early study indicates that a state-wide, age-based system may be discriminatory, unnecessarily discourages many older people from driving, may be inefficient and not cost-effective. An alternative national model licensing procedure is outlined that targets those suspected to be "at risk" drivers, using community referral mechanisms and a more thorough and valid assessment procedure within a licensing agency framework. The introduction of a case worker to orchestrate the assessment process for individuals who are referred is seen as a critical component in what is expected to be a humane, objective and acceptable process for those involved. The emphasis of the model is to allow older drivers to continue to drive as long as possible without placing undue risk on either the older population or the community generally. (Author/publisher)
Abstract