Recently I came across senior citizens who had problems trying to renew their driving licences after they reached 65 when they needed to submit medical reports. Some of them could not recall receiving letters from Traffic Police about the matter. Others recounted receiving the letters but explained that they had problems using Singpass to attach their medical reports, or had tried unsuccessfully to seek clarification through emails to TP.
From my observations, a driver whose licence has lapsed may not be aware of this. The problem becomes incurable when the licence has lapsed for three years or more. Under the Road Traffic Act, such a licence cannot be renewed and the driver has to retake the relevant competency tests. This came as a shock to some residents.
I feel that this area deserves review in two aspects.
First, could the age at which medical reports are required be moved to a later age? With better nutrition and health, and Singaporeans working longer, we could look at requiring medical examinations later. In Australia, for instance, the age requirement is generally 75 or even 80.
Second, it would be better if TP could issue a final letter to seniors once their driving licences have expired for two years. The letter should remind them that if they do not renew their licence within the next one year, they would not be able to do so. This would be an important safeguard.
