New Zealand · Health & transport · 2026-09-15
New Zealand ends age-only routine cognitive screening for older drivers
New Zealand's government said on September 15 that updated clinical guidance calls for individual fitness-to-drive assessments rather than routine cognitive screening based on age alone. Screening remains appropriate where there is a clinical reason.
Why it matters
The guidance changes assessment practice; it does not remove medical renewal requirements for drivers aged 75 and over or guarantee anyone a licence. Older drivers should discuss their own case with their practitioner.
Full report
Seniors Minister Casey Costello said updated clinical guidance confirms that older drivers should not undergo routine cognitive screening solely because of age. Health practitioners should assess each person and use screening tools when there is a clinical reason.
The guidance distinguishes screening for possible cognitive impairment from determining whether someone can drive safely. One test cannot reliably decide driving fitness; assessments should consider overall health, vision, physical and cognitive function, medical and driving history, and safety concerns.
This does not abolish New Zealand's older-driver renewal system. Drivers still follow current medical-certificate and any further-testing requirements when renewing at 75, 80 and every two years after 80.
People approaching renewal should arrange an assessment with a practitioner familiar with their medical history. If concerns remain, an on-road safety test or another specialist assessment may be recommended; NZTA and clinical guidance are the authoritative sources.
This report is an original summary based on verified sources, not a verbatim reproduction.
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