Understanding mandatory medical reporting to the Department of Transport
If you hold, or are applying for, a Western Australian driver’s licence and have a long-term injury, illness, medical condition or disability that could impact your ability to drive safely, you are legally required to report it to the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI).
Failing to notify DoT is an offence and may result in penalties. Mandatory medical reporting plays an important role in protecting you, other road users, and ensuring licensing decisions are fair and evidence-based.
Why mandatory medical reporting matters
You may require vehicle modifications if a disability or medical condition affects your ability to:
- access the vehicle independently
- stow mobility aids without assistance
- operate standard vehicle controls safely
Vehicle modifications are not suitable for everyone. It is important to consider other options first, such as driving rehabilitation, existing vehicle adjustments or low-tech solutions.
An Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment (OTDA) is essential to determine whether modifications are appropriate. This process includes working closely with a Vehicle Modifier to assess:
- whether vehicle modifications are recommended
- which modifications best suit your current and long-term function
- compatibility with your vehicle
- interaction with your environment, mobility devices and other Assistive Technology (AT)
Subtle differences in equipment can make a significant difference to adaptability and long-term use. Drive On Therapy supports you to identify the most appropriate solution.
How to report a medical condition in WA
Reporting a medical condition to the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure is straightforward and can be completed in several ways.
Online reporting
This is the quickest and easiest option. You can complete the online form directly via the Department of Transport website.
Standard form (M109A)
You can download and complete the Notification of Driving Impairment Form (M109A) and submit it to DoT by post or fax.
Personal letter
You may also write your own letter to DoT. This must include:
- your name, address and date of birth
- contact details
- WA driver’s licence number
- details of the medical condition being reported
The completed M109A or personal letter can be sent to DTMI via post Mail: P.O. Box R1290, PERTH WA 6844 or Fax: 1300 669 995.
What happens after you report a condition?
After reporting, DTMI will usually request a Medical Assessment Certificate (M107A) to be completed by your treating doctor.
If your doctor has already submitted the M107A, DTMI will review the information and send you a letter advising their decision and any actions required by a specific date. This may include adding conditions on your licence, a requirement for an Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment (OTDA), or a temporary suspension until further assessment is completed.
If DTMI still requires the M107A, they will notify you and provide instructions for completing and returning the form. The M107A helps DTMI determine whether you are:
- clear to drive without restrictions
- fit to drive with conditions (for example, corrective lenses or periodic review)
- requiring for an Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment (OTDA)
- needing a practical on-road assessment with DTMI
- in need of a temporary medical suspension while further information is gathered
It is best for your doctor to submit the completed M107A form via email: [email protected]
It is important to note that DTMI make final licensing decisions. This means you must wait until clearance is provided by DoT before returning to driving if your licence is under medical suspension.
Medical conditions that commonly require reporting
According to the Austroads Medical Standards for Licensing, medical conditions that may affect driving include:
- neurological conditions (such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease or epilepsy)
- psychiatric conditions (such as severe depression or schizophrenia)
- cognitive impairment (including mild changes and dementia)
- musculoskeletal conditions affecting vehicle control
- vision impairments
- diabetes with complications
- sleep disorders, including sleep apnoea
- neurodevelopmental onditions such as Autism and ADHD
Autism and ADHD: what Austroads says
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by differences in communication, sensory processing, executive function and behaviour. Austroads categorises Autism under “Other Neurological Conditions” that may impact driving.
Potential considerations include attention, sensory sensitivities, planning and emotional regulation.
ADHD is classified as a psychiatric condition and may affect driving through inattention, impulsivity, emotional regulation and risk-taking behaviours.
Austroads emphasises that both Autism and ADHD must be assessed individually, as functional abilities vary widely. Medical advice from a treating doctor is essential, and ADHD often requires periodic review for licence renewal.
Read more about Autism and driving here.
How Drive On Therapy can support you
If your doctor or the Department of Transport requests an Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment, our team can support you with:
- comprehensive off-road and on-road driving assessments
- advice regarding fitness to drive
- recommendations for vehicle modifications where appropriate
- driver rehabilitation and capacity building
- detailed reporting to DTMI with evidence-based recommendations
Next steps
If you’ve been notified by DTMI, or believe you may need to report a medical condition, our team is here to support you through the process.
Referrals to Drive On Therapy can be made online here, sending your completed referral form to [email protected] or by mail: PO Box 2046, Carlisle North WA 6101, or over the phone (08) 6287 9115.
We’ll help you understand each step and support you in making informed decisions about your driving and mobility.
Ready to take control of your driving and licensing journey?
If you’ve been asked to report a medical condition or want clarity about what comes next, we’re here to support you with clear advice and professional assessment.
