Health checks proposed for commercial drivers over 65

Commercial vehicle drivers will have to undergo physical examinations from the age of 65 in order to keep their driving licence in future, under a government proposal aimed at boosting road safety.

Currently, only those aged 70 or above have to submit a fitness certificate.

In a paper submitted to Legco, licences for commercial drivers aged 65 to 67 would be valid for three years, while those aged 68 to 69 would only have a two-year validity period.

Drivers aged 70 or above would be required to renew their licences annually.

Non-commercial drivers would continue to be required to undergo a physical examination only after reaching the age of 70. However, stricter vision requirements are proposed.

Commercial vehicle drivers would face even more stringent vision and hearing tests, alongside the inclusion of conditions that would disqualify them from having a licence, such as night blindness and dementia.

The commissioner for transport would also be empowered to demand medical reports from all drivers suspected of having health issues.

Failure to comply could result in the cancellation, or the rejection of the issuance or renewal, of a driving licence.

The Transport Department will introduce a set of guidelines, listing out the requirements for the revamped physical examinations.

Officials hope to submit the legislative proposals to the Legislative Council within this year and implement the new measures by the middle of next year.

Edited by Thomas McAlinden ...