Changes have appeared in the new version of the procedure, which will affect some drivers due to the periodicity of the checks, thus creating more flexibility for health professionals when making a decision on the driver’s fitness to participate in traffic.
The inspection of drivers transporting passengers and goods will change
Until now, all drivers of Group 2 vehicles (categories C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D, DE and T respectively) had to undergo a health check every 2 years. From 2024 October 15 Group 2 vehicle drivers under the age of 55 are examined once every 5 years, and drivers aged 55 and older are examined once every 2 years.
The same periodicity of health check-up is established for drivers of tractors and self-propelled machines and drivers of category B vehicles using a driver’s license for professional purposes. Given the fact that there is uncertainty as to whether persons who are not drivers, but use official transport, are required to undergo a health check as those who drive a category B vehicle for professional purposes, it has been clarified that this provision applies only to persons who work as drivers.
The changes were implemented in accordance with the decision of the Court of Justice of the European Union, according to which the periodicity of health checks for drivers of group 2 vehicles must basically coincide with the renewal of the driver’s license and is determined taking into account the validity period of the driver’s license, which is 5 years.
According to the regulation of the European Union, exceptions are possible for all drivers who have reached the age of 50, as well as individual drivers of any age who need to have their health checked more often due to diagnosed diseases.
Also, until now, when checking the health of drivers of category 2 vehicles, tractors and self-propelled machines, and drivers of category B vehicles using a driver’s license for professional purposes, an otorhinolaryngologist and a neurologist had to be present in all cases. From now on, these specialists must participate only in cases where the health is checked by an internal medicine doctor or such a decision is made by a family doctor.
The validity of the medical certificate has been revised depending on the age of the driver
In the event of uncertainty regarding the period for which a driver’s medical certificate must be issued, when a person undergoes a medical examination before changing the age group, the validity period of the medical certificate has been clarified.
For drivers of group 1 (AM, A1, A, B1, B and BE categories) vehicles under the age of 65, the validity period of the certificate cannot be longer than when he turns 70. When the driver is in the age group of 65-80 years – the medical certificate is issued for a period not longer than the person turns 82 years old.
The doctor will decide on the possibility of driving with a disability
Until now, persons diagnosed with complete deafness, deafness, and persons diagnosed with the absence of an arm, leg, hand, foot or both hands, feet, significant deformities resulting in impaired locomotor function, or the absence of both hands or both hands, fingers contractures, ankylosis, immobility that hinders grasping and holding an object, ankylosis of both shoulders, elbows, wrist joints, contractures, by individual decision it was possible to obtain a permit to drive vehicles of group 1, but it was forbidden to drive all vehicles of group 2.
Taking into account the suggestions of the social partners and the Commission on the Rights of the Disabled of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, this ban was abolished and it was determined that the ability of the above-mentioned persons with health disorders to drive both group 1 and 2 vehicles can be decided individually. This means that the doctor performing the medical examination or a committee of doctors can make an individual decision allowing a person to drive Group 2 vehicles, taking into account the disease, compensation, quality of adaptation and, if necessary, determining additional measures to ensure safe driving (e.g. mandatory use of a prosthesis while driving).
The possibility of filling out certificates electronically is more clearly regulated
The new procedure also establishes that when sending a driver or other employed or working person for a health check, the employer can optionally fill out a “paper” (No. 047/a or No. 048/a) or electronic (No. E047 and No. E048) certificate form . After the employer fills out the electronic form in the Electronic Health Services and Cooperation Infrastructure information system, it can be viewed by any personal health care institution to which the employee applies, and the conclusion of the health examination will be submitted electronically. This will allow to optimize the process of filling out certificates and reduce the bureaucratic burden.
These changes to health checks will make it possible for persons with disabilities to obtain a permit to drive Group 2 vehicles, optimize health care processes and ensure that drivers meet the necessary health requirements, contributing to public welfare and safety on the road. The changes have been coordinated with various institutions and medical institutions performing health checks for drivers.
The new edition of the Procedure for Preventive Health Checkups in Health Care Institutions can be found HERE.
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Interview with Dr. Marija Novik, Health Regulation Specialist, on New Driver Health Check Procedures
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Novik. Could you start by explaining the key changes in the health check procedures for drivers that will take effect on October 15, 2024?
Dr. Novik: Thank you for having me. The new regulations introduce significant changes to the health checks for drivers of Group 2 vehicles. Previously, all drivers in this category were required to undergo a health check every two years. Now, those under 55 will only need to be examined every five years, while those 55 and older will continue to be examined every two years. This new periodicity not only provides more flexibility for health professionals but also aligns with the renewal cycle of driver’s licenses, which is set at five years.
Interviewer: That sounds like a substantial adjustment. What prompted these changes?
Dr. Novik: The updates were influenced by a ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union. They emphasized that the frequency of health checks for drivers must coincide with license renewals. This allows for a more efficient process, reducing unnecessary examinations for younger drivers who may have fewer health risks.
Interviewer: There seems to be a shift in how certain health conditions are treated. Can you explain the new provisions regarding drivers with disabilities?
Dr. Novik: Yes, indeed. Previously, individuals with certain disabilities—like complete deafness or amputations—were outright banned from driving Group 2 vehicles. The new regulations allow for a more individualized assessment. Now, a medical professional or a committee of doctors can evaluate each case and determine whether a person with these health disorders can safely operate Group 1 or Group 2 vehicles, considering factors like their condition and any compensatory measures, such as the use of prosthetics.
Interviewer: It’s encouraging to see such a move towards inclusivity. Additionally, could you comment on the integration of electronic certificates in the health check process?
Dr. Novik: Absolutely. The new procedure clarifies that employers now have the option to fill out health check certificates electronically, which streamlines the process. This shift helps reduce paperwork and makes it easier for both employers and employees to manage health checks efficiently, while ensuring compliance with the new regulations.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Novik, for shedding light on these important changes. It sounds like an exciting time for both drivers and healthcare professionals alike!
Dr. Novik: Thank you, it’s been a pleasure to discuss these updates that aim to enhance road safety while accommodating the health needs of drivers.
Ete deafness or the absence of limbs—were prohibited from driving Group 2 vehicles outright. However, under the new regulations, medical professionals can evaluate these individuals on a case-by-case basis. This means that if a driver with a disability demonstrates sufficient adaptation or uses necessary assistive devices such as prosthetics, they may now qualify to drive both Group 1 and Group 2 vehicles, thus promoting inclusivity and acknowledging individual capabilities.
Interviewer: That’s an encouraging development! Additionally, how have the procedures for issuing medical certificates evolved under these changes?
Dr. Novik: The new procedures streamline the process for issuing medical certificates. For example, the validity of certificates now corresponds more closely to the driver’s age. For those under 65, the certificate is valid until the driver turns 70, and similarly, for those aged 65-80, the certificate is valid until the person turns 82. Furthermore, we’re also seeing a shift towards electronic documentation. Employers can now opt for electronic certificates, which can be conveniently accessed across health institutions, thus minimizing bureaucracy and enhancing efficiency in the health-check process.
Interviewer: This certainly seems like a move towards modernization. What impact do you believe these changes will have on road safety?
Dr. Novik: One of the primary objectives of these changes is to ensure that drivers are both medically fit and can participate safely in traffic. By allowing for a more flexible health-check schedule and accommodating individual health needs, we can promote a safer driving environment. Ultimately, these regulations help to ensure that all drivers meet necessary health standards while also reducing unnecessary barriers for those who are capable and qualified to drive.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Novik, for shedding light on these important changes. It seems like they will positively impact both drivers and public safety.
Dr. Novik: Thank you for having me! It’s important that we continue to adapt our regulations to better serve all members of the community.
