The Bermuda government will no longer require a medical certificate for the majority of driver licence renewals, a change announced by Transport Minister Owen Darrell at a recent briefing. The move is part of a review aimed at streamlining the renewal process, with the minister stating that the removal of the medical check would reduce paperwork and administrative costs for both motorists and the Department of Motor Vehicles.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from the Opposition Business Analyst, Shadow Minister Craig Cannonier. Cannonier argued that the removal of the medical requirement after five years of implementation was a short‑sighted policy that imposed an unnecessary burden on the public. He further contended that the Minister’s public celebration of the change gave the impression of a public service improvement when, in his view, it merely eliminated a long‑standing safeguard.

The Department of Motor Vehicles will begin accepting renewals without a doctor’s certificate from the next renewal cycle. Motorists who require a medical assessment for medical reasons will still be able to submit a certificate if they choose. The government has indicated that the change will be monitored for any impact on road safety statistics.

The OBA remains committed to ensuring that any revisions to licensing procedures are thoroughly evaluated and that public safety remains the top priority.