Some Grey Power members are asking whether they can appeal a failed mandatory cognitive test, given by their GP (doctor) who then refuses to provide them with a medical certificate?
After consulting with NZTA, the short answer is that the legislation does not provide an appeal to NZTA. However, just like with any medical opinion, a driver who is not issued a medical certificate for licence renewal is able to advise their GP that they will seek another medical opinion.
Should the driver be issued a medical certificate by the second GP, he or she can take it to a Driver Licensing Agent (e.g. AA, VTNZ) and there will be a referral to the NZTA Driver Safety (Medical) Team prior to a final decision being made.
An alternative approach for someone failed with the cognitive test is to request a resit of the test at a later date, or if they could be referred for an On Road Safety Test which is free of charge for those aged 75 or over.
An alternative is a referral to an Occupational Therapist, but the cost is likely to be between $800 and $1500. Since some of these processes take time, we encourage our members to start preparing for their licence renewal well in advance of their qualifying birthday – NZTA is reminding licence holders that the rules allow licence renewal up to six months prior to your birthday.
Read more: Seniors’ licence renewal made easier