B.C. Driver Medical Fitness

RoadSafetyBC is the ultimate authority on who gets to keep their driver's licence and who doesn't based on the driver's medical fitness. Assessments affect about 150,000 drivers each year in British Columbia.

Medical Fitness Principles

The principles set out by RoadSafetyBC are divided into four categories:

1. Risk Management
2. Functional Approach
3. Individual Assessment
4. Best Information

By following these principles, RoadSafetyBC ensures that drivers are given the maximum licensing privilege possible taking into account their medical condition, its impact on the functions necessary for driving and the driver’s ability to compensate for the condition.

Number of Drivers Affected

RoadSafetyBC reports that during the period of 2010 to 2014 they assessed an average of 150,000 drivers each year. About 5,000 drivers had their driving privileges cancelled for fitness reasons or for not complying with a request for assessment.

About 1,000 drivers voluntarily surrendered their licence and 600 drivers had their driving privileges class reduced.

Of that group of 150,000 drivers assessed each year, about 70,000 of them are aged 80 or older.

Driver Fitness Reports

Section 230 MVA requires psychologists, optometrists, medical and nurse practitioners to report to RoadSafetyBC any patient who has a medical condition that makes it dangerous for them to drive and continues to drive after being warned not to.

They may also report any patient on their own discretion just like anyone with knowledge may.

Fitness Standards

The Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrator's Medical Standards with BC Specific Guidelines is the standard that guides the decisions of RoadSafetyBC's assessment staff.

The screening policies for the application of the standards are published on line.

Review of Fitness Decisions

Decisions made by RoadSafetyBC are subject to review. There is a flowchart in section 2.5.1 of the document that shows how the review process works as well as an explanation of how a review might change a driver's circumstances.

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