Driver’s medical exams

Have you or someone you know been asked to take a driver’s medical examination? Here’s what to do and what to expect.

After receiving your Driver Medical Examination form, you’ll have 45 days to complete and submit it. It’s important to submit it on time-if you miss that deadline your licence may be cancelled.

Completing your driver’s medical exam form

To complete your Driver Medical Examination form, you’ll need to take it to a doctor. When you make your appointment, be sure to let the doctor know it’s for a driver’s medical examination.

What happens next

After your form is submitted, RoadSafetyBC will review it. If a medical condition might be of concern, they might request additional information, or an Enhanced Road Assessment if you hold a Class 5/7 or road test re-examination if you hold a Class 1-4 or Class 6.

Common reasons you may require a driver’s medical examination

There are many reasons why a driver might need to have a medical examination. Here are the most common:

Seniors 80 and older

A couple of months before you turn 80 you’ll receive a notice to take a medical examination. You’ll need to take a medical exam that year and every two years thereafter.

Ongoing or reported medical conditions

If you have an on-going or reported medical condition that might affect your ability to drive, you’ll be asked to take a driver’s medical exam. The type and frequency of the exams is determined by RoadSafetyBC.

Upon each application and renewal of a driver’s licence, you will be asked to declare any new or ongoing medical or physical condition. Please let us know if you would like privacy while doing so. ICBC is committed to ensuring your privacy as well as making reasonable accommodation for those with disabilities.

Commercial drivers

As a commercial driver, you’ll take a medical exam when applying for your licence, as well as on a scheduled basis after that. A doctor usually charges you a fee for these exams.

Downgrading your licence

If you’ve been asked to take your routine commercial medical examination but no longer need your commercial licence, you may choose to downgrade it and opt out of the exam.

To downgrade your licence, visit any driver licensing office or contact us.

Getting your commercial licence back

If you’ve downgraded your commercial licence less than three years ago, you may be able to get it back without taking any tests other than the medical examination. 

To apply, visit any driver licensing office.

More information

If you have any questions about your licence and the driver’s medical exam, please contact us.