A driving assessment in BC is an evaluation conducted by licensing authorities to determine an individual’s driving abilities and suitability for maintaining a driver’s license.
Tips & Links
A driving assessment is important if you’re aging, have had a health change, or are on certain medications to ensure safe driving and reduce the risk of accidents.
Learn More
- Road-Safety BC created a Driver’s Medical Examination Report (DMER) “helps to determine if a driver’s medical condition affects their ability to drive safely”. The test includes cognition (for example, memory, attention, and judgment), eyesight, and overall physical health tests as outlined by the Government of BC.
- For seniors, Road-Safety BC suggest seniors complete a DMER at 80 and at 85 years of age and every 2 years after that. After 80 years of age, ICBC should mail you a report (with detailed instructions on the back) to take to your physician or nurse practitioner who must complete the form and send it for review by Road-Safety BC within 45 days of it being issued. Learn more from the Government of BC.
- “In B.C., doctors, registered psychologists, and optometrists all have a legal duty to report patients whose driving ability is in question. As well, police officers, family members, and other concerned individuals can report unsafe drivers to the Superintendent of Motor vehicles.”
- Additional testing could include an Enhanced Road Assessment (ERA). The ERA is an on-road driving assessment that evaluates a driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle from the Government of BC.
Things You Can Do
- Have your vision tested annually or more frequently if you notice changes.
- Speak to your physician about any side effects from medications or treatments that may impair your ability to drive safely.
- Ask your care partners for assistance in driving to and from treatments or when you are feeling unwell.
- Giving up a driver’s license can lead to feelings of lost independence and isolation. Look for ways to maintain your physical, social, and lifestyle activities.
- Explore the list of transportation options if you should need to retire your Driver’s License or take a leave from driving for a period of time from the Government of BC.
- Learn about HandyDART, taxi saver programs and ride-share services in your community.
- Explore the many ways seniors are staying active and connected after ‘hanging up their car keys” from Senior’s on the Move.
File copies of your assessment forms, instructions, and transportation information in your Mywell Health print or digital planner under My Day to Day.
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Categories: My Day to Day, Senior
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