1:30min
Recent changes to Queensland driver licence medical forms have raised concerns among optometrists, particularly around the visibility of optometry within the driving assessment process.
While the structure of the forms has changed, the underlying medical certification and visual guideline requirements remain the same, according to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).
Form changes
Previously, the Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver combined the GP medical assessment and the eyesight assessment into a single form. Optometrists completed the eyesight section upon referral from the patient’s GP.
Under the revised process:
- The Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver (Form F3712) is completed by the GP
- The Driver Health Specialist Assessment Form (Form F3195) is completed by other health professionals, including optometrists, when further clinical input is required
Both the old and new forms are currently being accepted by TMR during the transition period.
Last week, the TMR also advised that the updated Form F3195 will be published on the Healthy to Drive website in the coming months. OQNT is still currently awaiting a draft of the reinstated vision section and will review the proposed changes to ensure the final version supports clear and consistent vision reporting before it being published.
Advocacy progress
When the new forms were introduced, the structured eyesight assessment section from the previous certificate was not fully carried across into the specialist assessment form.
Following advocacy from Optometry Queensland Northern Territory (OQNT), TMR has committed to reinstating and improving the eyesight assessment section within Form F3195.
This will provide a clearer framework for optometrists and ophthalmologists to record visual acuity, visual fields and relevant eye health findings, supporting the role of optometry within the driving assessment pathway.
TMR has advised that the updated Form F3195 will be published on the Healthy to Drive website in the coming weeks. OQNT is currently awaiting a draft of the reinstated vision section and will review the proposed changes to ensure the final version supports clear and consistent vision reporting.
Remaining concerns
While the reinstatement of the eyesight section is a positive step, concerns remain regarding the Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver (Form F3712).
The current GP certificate does not include a field for basic visual acuity or screening eyesight tests.
Visual acuity and adequate peripheral vision are fundamental to driving safety, and their inclusion previously helped highlight the importance of vision checks for both patients and GPs.
Without these prompts, referral pathways to optometrists may weaken, particularly for drivers aged 75 years and over, who are more likely to experience vision impairment.
OQNT has raised these concerns with TMR and continues to advocate for either reinstating a visual acuity entry or a clear prompt encouraging referral to an optometrist when vision concerns arise.
Medicare reminder
Medicare benefits can be paid for optometric examinations related to private motor vehicle licences.
However, Medicare benefits are not payable for optometric services associated with compulsory examinations required to obtain a commercial licence, including driving or flying.
What happens next
OQNT continues discussions with TMR and has been invited to participate in the Medical Condition Reporting Working Group, providing optometry with a direct voice in future policy and form design.
Optometry Australia is also preparing a submission to the upcoming Assessing Fitness to Drive Guidelines review, advocating for mandatory eye testing with an eye care practitioner for drivers aged 75 years and over.
Members will be updated as further progress is made.