AQO 3970/22-27
Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast
Tabled Date: 10/09/2026
Answered On Date: 23/09/2026
Priority Written: No
Question:
To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the development of policy around medical fitness to drive.
Answer:
Road safety remains a key priority for me, and I recognise the importance of ensuring that all drivers are fit to drive safely and competently. Medical fitness to drive is a complex policy area which requires careful consideration of a range of factors, including road safety, medical standards and evidence and practical implications for drivers. Recognising concerns that have been raised in this area, my Department has been considering how existing arrangements can be strengthened. This has resulted in action by the Driver & Vehicle Agency to improve awareness and understanding of medical fitness to drive requirements, particularly the Source of Danger Notification process, which allows third parties to report concerns about a driver who may be medically unfit to drive. Clear guidance has also been published to help members of the public and professionals understand how concerns can be reported. Since the updates to the public information regarding Source of Danger Notifications were made, the number of notifications received per month has increased by more than 25% compared with the previous 12 months, and by over 50% compared with the long-term trend. My officials have recently commenced a policy review to identify the key issues associated with medical fitness to drive and to consider potential options for further improvement, including whether legislative change may be required. This work will include engagement with key stakeholders and consideration of developments in other jurisdictions. The Department is also collaborating with Queen's University Belfast through a PhD studentship examining age-related changes in vision and cognition and their relationship with driving behaviour. This research will help strengthen the evidence base available to inform future policy considerations. Any future policy proposals would require careful consideration and would be subject to the appropriate policy development processes, including public consultation where necessary, and Ministerial decision. In the meantime, all drivers remain legally responsible for notifying the Driver & Vehicle Agency if they develop or experience a deterioration in a medical condition that may affect their ability to drive safely. My Department will continue to promote awareness of these responsibilities through ongoing communications and road safety campaigns.
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