Driving licence medical certificate: what is checked and how long it lasts

What the check covers

The medical certificate for a driving licence focuses on your fitness to drive. It typically includes history taking and a physical examination by a doctor, blood pressure measurement, visual acuity and colour blindness testing.

The doctor assesses conditions that could affect driving, such as dizziness, poorly controlled heart disease or vision problems, on an individual basis.

Preparing for your visit

No fasting is required. The visit takes about 30-60 minutes during opening hours, and the certificate is issued the same day. Bring the following:

• Your ID card
• The glasses or contact lenses you normally drive with (wear them to the appointment)
• Information about chronic conditions and medicines
• Tell our staff which type of driving licence you are applying for

Validity of the certificate

Validity depends on the licence type and the Department of Land Transport's requirements, which can change. Confirm with the receiving office or with our staff beforehand so you do not repeat the check unnecessarily.

Some licence types, such as public driving licences, may have additional requirements. Tell our staff on the day so the documentation matches what you need.

Colour blindness and driving

Colour vision is part of the assessment because drivers must distinguish traffic signal colours. Most colour blindness is present from birth and cannot be cured, but testing helps you understand your limits and drive safely.

If you have questions about the result or the requirements for different licence categories, our staff will advise and arrange any further testing needed.