Driver Medicals

Key Points from the Updated Assessing Fitness to Drive (AFTD) Guidelines

(Effective 22 June 2022)

 

• AFTD is jointly published by the National Transport Commission (NTC) and Austroads.

• The medical standards apply nationwide across all Australian states and territories.

• SEIH specifically uses these standards for employer-based driver medical assessments.

 

What Has Changed?

 

• Older drivers’ specifications

• Drivers with multiple medical conditions

• Drivers with disabilities

 

Updated Fitness to Drive Criteria

 

• Cardiovascular diseases

• Musculoskeletal issues

• Neurological conditions:

  • Dementia

  • Seizures

  • Epilepsy

  • Cognitive impairment

• Substance misuse

• Vision and eye disorders

 

New Guidance on Medical Cannabis

 

The 2022 guidelines now include extensive information on the use of prescribed cannabis. Important Note: Despite its medical use, driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal.

 

Key Implications for Drivers and Employers

 

No changes to legal responsibilities of drivers, doctors, and licensing bodies.

Clinicians must communicate clearly how a medical condition or treatment impacts safe driving.

 

Promotes better consistency in how standards are applied across practitioners.

 

Why This Matters?

 

The previous edition of AFTD was six years old, while the standard review cycle is every three years. These updates ensure assessments reflect current medical knowledge and support public road safety.