Medical fitness to drive rules to be tightened

Medical standards are due to change in October 2024

Drivers of large vehicles in Jersey are due to be subject to new legislation requiring them to obtain a medical certificate.

The Government of Jersey said the changes would come into force on 5 October, making medical standards "similar to the UK and EU".

It said drivers with vision impairment and conditions including epilepsy and seizures and diabetes are also affected by the changes.

Drivers should speak to their doctor with "any concerns" about the new standards, officials said.

The government said the new medical standards for driving licences mean stricter rules will be in place for "Group 2 licence" holders - drivers of minibuses, coaches and larger vans.

These drivers will need a medical certificate when they first apply for their licence, if they develop a new medical condition, or when they seek to renew their licence over the age of 45.

It said there would be new requirements around the length of time since seizures or since hypoglycaemic events, while vision requirements are also due to change.

Changes could also impact "Group 1" licence holders, who drive private vehicles including cars.

Group 1 driving licences will be valid for 10 years, while Group 2 driving licences will be valid for 5 years from the age of 45, and for one year after the age of 65, officials said.