SAAQ: Policy easing for 75-year-old drivers

Drivers over the age of 75 are not required to complete a validation of their health status to renew their driving license at the Society de l’Assurance Automobile du Quebec (SAAQ).

From now on, a new mandatory Medical Self-Declaration Form will now be sent to license holders over 75 years of age. No change for 80-year-old drivers. The latter should continue to submit for medical and visual inspection once every two years as they currently are.

Doing so reduces stress on the health care system by reducing bureaucracy, while at the same time improving the client experience by simplifying procedures.

The 75-year-old license holders, who represent approximately 55,000 clients a year, are required to submit to SAAQ the results of a medical examination recorded in two forms completed by a physician and ophthalmologist.

“The Quebec health system has been in great demand in recent months and we are aware of that. By increasing the effectiveness of our medical inspections, we can better identify drivers who indicate danger and thereby ensure that safety on our roads is a priority,” said Transport Minister Franకోois Bonardell.

In recent years, less than 2% of 75-year-olds have had their driver’s license revoked after a medical or visual examination.

The SAAQ adds that only individuals who report a medical problem that is not conducive to the safe driving of the vehicle will be subject to medical professional examination.

“Improved living conditions and increased longevity mean that Quebecs will live longer and healthier lives. This will ensure that 75-year-old drivers are in better health than ever before. President and Chief Executive Officer Denise Marsolois said.

Controls are maintained to ensure the accuracy of the information provided by the licensees.

• Listen to Mario Dumont’s interview with SAAQ spokesman Mario Vilancourt on QUB Radio: