At Age Concern, we know that for many people staying mobile can be important to maintaining independence, connection, and wellbeing as we age. Rather than focusing on testing or judgement, our approach to road safety is about building knowledge, confidence, and awareness so older drivers can make informed choices about their driving.
By supporting older people to continue driving safely for as long as possible, and to plan ahead for future transport needs, we give people choices to suit their practical ability.
Refresher courses for older drivers
The driving refresher course is an opportunity for people to be confident their knowledge of traffic rules and safe driving practices is up to date. They are provided through the generous support of New Zealand Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi).
It is a fun course that is run in a friendly and relaxed environment with other older drivers. It includes the latest information like:
- Licence renewal for those aged over 74
- Roundabout signalling
- The Top of the T goes before me rule
- Blind spots
- Sharing the road with cyclists
Very useful review of important aspects to consider as an older driver and refresher of road rules for driving. Raised issues and clarified situations – great to share with others. Thank you to the instructor and the organsation well done to provide an interesting informative course.
Self-rating driving assessment
Drivers can also check their driving skills online with the NZTA (Waka Kotahi) self-rating driving assessment
This online self‑assessment asks drivers to answer 15 questions honestly, based on their driving over the past few years. Once completed, the person receives helpful suggestions to support any areas of their driving they may wish to focus on.
The self‑assessment is for confidential information. NZTA Waka Kotahi collects age and gender data solely to monitor use of the tool, answers and final scores are not recorded.
Click here to complete a self-rating driving assessment online.
Understanding the renewal process
From age 75, people living in Aotearoa New Zealand need to renew their driver licence more frequently and may need to complete a medical check.
New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Waka Kotahi will make contact at 74.5 years, 79.5 years, and every two years after that. You can read more about renewing your driver license here.
Keeping details updated
Its important people keep their email and address details up to date with NZTA Waka Kotahi, so they receive the email or letter as a reminder.
People renewing their licence need to make an appointment with their doctor for a medical check. After the appointment, the doctor will advise one of the following:
- Medically fit to drive
- Medically fit to drive with conditions (for example, wearing glasses or not driving at night)
- Medically fit to drive subject to a specialist’s approval
- Medically fit to drive if you pass an on‑road safety driving test
If the driver is medically fit to drive, they can renew the licence at a driver licensing agent.
Sometimes, a doctor may talk with the driver about whether it’s no longer safe or legal for them to drive. This can be upsetting news, and it’s natural for people to need time to process it.
There are many ways to stay connected and independent as we age, even if we no longer drive. Age Concern’s Life Without a Car booklet offers practical guidance and positive options for planning transport and staying engaged.
Interested in a Staying Safe course?
Check which Age Concerns offer Staying Safe courses and contact them to register.
