More savings for senior drivers as province introduces another discount

On Tuesday, the province announced that seniors who require a driver’s medical examination to renew their driver’s licence can now receive a 25 per cent discount from Alberta registries.

A driver’s medical examination is a routine examination performed by a physician or nurse practitioner. The purpose of the examination is to ensure that a person is medically fit to drive according to provincial guidelines.

Seniors must get a driver’s medical examination at age 75, 80, and every two years after that, starting at 82. Some seniors with a medical condition may be required to get a driver’s medical examination at an earlier age.

This announcement follows the implementation of the seniors’ discount on personal registry services on April 1.

"Senior drivers are eligible for the driver’s medical examination discount, provided they are 65 or older on the day of the exam, and the exam took place April 1, 2024, or later," the province stated. "Seniors who have completed the exam can take their receipt or proof of purchase to any Alberta registry agent to apply for their discount."

Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, noted that the discount on the driver’s medical exam, combined with the discount on personal registry services, will make their lives more affordable.

Seniors will be reimbursed for 25 per cent of the amount paid for the examination through a government-issued cheque mailed to them. Driver’s medical examinations performed since April 1, 2024, are eligible under the program.

The province added that Driver’s medical examinations are not covered by AHCIP. The rate previously paid under the insurance plan was $85.58, but the actual charges can range from $80 to $295, depending on the physician.

There are 213 registry agents across Alberta, and all Alberta registry agents can process reimbursements for completed driver’s medical examinations.

During April, almost 90,000 seniors received a discount on personal registry services. More details on the seniors’ discount for provincial campground fees will be released prior to the 2025 camping season.

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