For many Australians, driving is more than just a way to get from one place to another. It represents independence, freedom, and connection to the community. For people living with young onset Parkinson’s, driving requires careful consideration of how their symptoms may affect their abilities over time.

Changes to driving ability

Parkinson’s and other neurological movement disorders have the potential to affect a range of functions associated with driving. Driving any type of vehicle requires a range of decision-making and motor functions, including:

  • Reaction time
  • Coordination
  • Concentration
  • Perception of distance
  • Perception of speed
  • Vision
  • Muscle control
  • Multitasking

Remember to note any changes to your driving ability, as they can happen even in the early stages of Parkinson’s.

Reporting requirements

Parkinson’s is classified as a reportable medical condition in Australia. This means you must notify your state or territory transport authority once you are diagnosed. Failure to report can have serious consequences:

  • Your insurance may not cover you if you are in an accident.
  • You may face legal liability or driving offences.
  • You could be sued if another person is harmed.

Each state has its own forms and processes, usually completed by your GP or neurologist. You can find details on your local transport authority’s website (for example, Service NSW, VicRoads, or SA Gov Transport).

Review of driving ability

Parkinson’s is classified as a medical condition requiring annual review to maintain your license.

Your medical specialist may request:

Australian Disability Parking Permit

You may wish to apply for a nationally recognised Australian Disability Parking Permit. Permit holders can park in spaces marked as disability parking spaces and access particular parking concessions, which can vary from state to state. The vehicle must be transporting the eligible permit holder, with the permit displayed.

Know your responsibilities

Driving with Parkinson’s is possible, but it requires honesty, responsibility, and planning. Always:

  • Report your condition to the transport authority.
  • Follow medical advice about driving restrictions.
  • Explore funding and support options to maintain independence.
  • Keep communication open with family, carers, and health professionals.

For more information on your responsibilities as a driver with Parkinson’s, please contact the transport authority in your state.

References

Brock P, Oates LL, Gray WK, et al. Driving and Parkinson’s Disease: A Survey of the Patient’s Perspective. Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. 2021;12(1):465-471. doi:10.3233/JPD-212686

Classen, S., & Uc, E. Y. (2011). Driving under the influence of Parkinson’s disease: A review of the literature. Occupational Therapy in Health Care, 25(1-2), 79–96. https://doi.org/10.3109/07380577.2011.552170

Heikkilä, J., Turkka, J., Korpelainen, J., & Summala, H. (1998). Decreased driving ability in people with Parkinson’s disease. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 64(2), 217–222. https://doi.org/10.1136/jnnp.64.2.217

Meinders, M. J., Maas, B. R., Bloem, B. R., van Geluk, H., & Darweesh, S. K. L. (2024). Exploring the impact of Parkinson’s disease on driving: A population-based survey. Movement Disorders Clinical Practice. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1002/mdc3.14275

Ranchet, M., Devos, H., & Uc, E. Y. (2020). Driving in Parkinson Disease. Clinics in geriatric medicine, 36(1), 141–148. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cger.2019.09.007

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