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

Share

Other articles

  • NDIS | Who can apply?

    Waiting until your symptoms significantly decline before applying for access to the NDIS risks preventable deconditioning, unnecessary workplace stress, and avoidable strain on your family. With major NDIS access changes coming in 2028, applying now is the best way to safeguard your future independence.

  • Overview of changes to the NDIS laws

    The new law: a quick summary On 19 August 2026, Parliament passed the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026. It changes who can access the NDIS, how plans are managed, how funding can be used, how providers deliver supports, how the NDIA deals with fraud and how prices [...]

  • CARERS | Why is asking for help so hard?

    By Gather My Crew for the Young Onset Parkinson’s Exchange Someone says, “Let me know if I can do anything.” You smile and thank them. You know they mean it. You might even need the help. But you find yourself saying, “I’m fine.” If you’re living with young onset Parkinson’s, or supporting someone who is, [...]