If you are 65 years of age and above and possess a Singapore driving or provisional driving licence, you are required to undergo and pass a medical examination with a Singapore registered medical practitioner in order to continue driving in Singapore.

In my practice, some patients are not aware of what to expect and how to prepare for this checkup, which may lead to a wasted trip. This article seeks to help patients prepare for their aged drivers medical checkup.

Components of the aged drivers medical checkup:

• Past Medical History
  • It is important to let your doctor know all the past medical conditions that you have, including the types of surgeries you had previously.
• General Medical Examination
  • Eyesight check
    • You will be tested for both near vision as well as far vision.
    • Remember to bring along your spectacles if you are using any.
  • Blood pressure
    • Remember to take your blood pressure medications before the checkup, if any.
    • Refrain from smoking or eating within 30 minutes of the checkup as they can raise your blood pressure.
    • Empty your bladder before the checkup as a full bladder can raise your blood pressure.
    • Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground and with your back supported.
    • Try to breathe normally and stay calm.
    • Refrain from talking when the doctor is checking your blood pressure as that can raise your blood pressure
  • Your doctor will also assess your heart, mobility of joints and colour vision, among other things.

Ensure that the doctor filled in the relevant sections, especially the certification of fitness portion. Do remember to submit the completed form yourself after the checkup by following the instructions in the letter given by the Singapore Police Force (SPF).

Useful Links:

• Singapore police force: https://eservices1.police.gov.sg/phub/eservices/landingpage/medical-examination-form