Rita Oakes, who will turn 76 in a few weeks, is a woman who appreciates her driver’s licence. She depends on it for transport, but also for a sense of independence.

Mrs Oakes obtained her licence more than 35 years ago when she needed it to travel to work at Liddell each day.

These days she drives her car three days a week and makes occasional trips to Singleton and a fortnightly trip to Denman.

“If I want something, I jump in the car and go and get it, you can’t rely on people to drive you everywhere,” Mrs Oakes said.

Being 75 years old, Mrs Oakes just falls into the group of drivers who are affected by the law changes for older drivers.

Mrs Oakes received a letter from the RTA this week notifying her she is required to attend an annual medical check-up.

Others changes include a new driving test for over-85 drivers and the introduction of a voluntary driver assessment from home or the choice of modified licence options for those over 85.

The reforms were announced by the NSW Government in April.

Minister for Roads Michael Daley said the changes would provide over 85 year olds with safer, more flexible licensing options.

“The reforms make sure over-85 drivers remain mobile for as long as possible, without compromising their safety and that of other road users,” he said.

Mr Daley said an Older Drivers Implementation Panel had been set up at the time the reforms were announced to make sure the new requirements were practical and effective.

“We all know tests can be unduly stressful, so options like taking a driving assessment from home have been carefully constructed to help older drivers feel more comfortable,” Mr Daley said.

“Another option we’re keeping open to over-85 drivers is the modified licence, which enables people to drive in their local area where they are familiar with traffic conditions,” he said.