Age limit for driving heavy vehicles raised to 75

From next year, motorists who drive heavy vehicles such as cranes, buses and container trucks can continue until they turn 75, as long as the Traffic Police (TP) deem them fit to do so, reported The Straits Times.

This could help ease the difficulty that companies have in recruiting and retaining local workers to fill such positions.

Announcing yesterday that the age limit for Class 4, 4A and 5 driving licences would be raised from 70 from Jan 1^st, the TP said drivers can renew their licences as long as they pass annual medical and proficiency tests.

"The policy change will enable our senior drivers to continue contributing to the workforce," said the TP on its website, adding that the new regulation is consistent with the practices in many developed countries.

To get their licences, older drivers aged 70 to 74 will have to pass enhanced medical and driving tests. The medical screening includes an additional question and abbreviated mental test to check that they have the required cognitive ability. They must also pass an enhanced driving test with more components in the circuit, and an on-road driving assessment to ensure they can respond safely to other road users.