Professional check
Statutory screening for bus, taxi, and lorry drivers
The Road Traffic Act provides for testing for bus, taxi, and lorry drivers so that the professionals at the wheel can prove that they are physically and mentally fit for the road.
A certificate or an expert opinion, to be presented to the licensing authorities, is meant to establish that no illness stands in the way of the ability to drive. In addition, bus and taxi drivers are required to provide proof that they meet the special requirements for the carriage of people.
Who needs a certificate?
A medical examination certificate is required of:
- Applicants for the issue or renewal (every 5 years) of a Class C or CE licence (lorries over 7.5 tonnes)
- Applicants for the issue of a Class C1 or C1E licence (lorries up to 7.5 tonnes), as well as renewals of 49 years of age and above
- Applicants for renewal (every 5 years) of a license for passenger transport (e.g. taxis and rental cars) or in categories D, D1, DE, or D1E ("omnibus classes")
Who needs an expert opinion?
An opinion on special requirements (performance study) must also be submitted by:
- Applicants for the issue of a licence of classes D, D1, DE, or D1E ("omnibus classes")
- Applicants for the issue of a licence for passenger conveyance (e.g. taxis and cars for hire)
- Applicants for the issue of a licence of classes D, D1, DE, or D1E ("omnibus classes") of 50 years of age or above
- Applicants for the issue of a licence for passenger conveyance (e.g. taxis and cars for hire) of 60 years of age and above
What happens in the medical examination?
If you have to present a medical examination certificate, you will be examined by a doctor specialising in traffic medicine. The examination is similar to a physical examination conducted by a GP, but no blood will be taken.
If you have to present an opinion concerning additional requirements, apart from the medical examination you will undertake several performance tests to investigate responsiveness, concentration ability, ability to work under pressure, etc.
