When it's time to stop driving — Australia
State driver licensing, medical conditions and family conversations
For many older Australians, driving is independence. Losing it can feel like losing freedom. But when safety is at stake, the conversation needs to happen — gently.
Warning signs
- Getting lost on familiar routes
- Unexplained dents or scrapes on the car
- Near-misses or minor accidents
- Confusing the brake and accelerator
- Difficulty judging distances or speed
- Other drivers honking frequently
- Anxiety about driving (theirs or yours)
Having the conversation
This is not about taking something away. It is about keeping them and everyone else safe. Frame it around care, not control: "I worry about you on the road. Can we talk about some options?" Expect resistance. This is their identity you're touching.
Medical assessments
Some states require drivers over a certain age to have regular medical assessments. The rules vary — check with your state's transport authority. A GP can refer for an occupational therapy driving assessment — an independent, practical on-road test that removes the family argument from the equation.
Alternative transport
- Community transport services (often free for seniors)
- Taxi subsidy schemes (most states have them for eligible seniors)
- Ride-sharing apps with a family member setting it up
- Volunteer driver programs through local councils or churches
- Home delivery for groceries and medications
See all 53 guides in Care & end of life →
From bluetulipco.com/library/end-of-life/driving-licence — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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