Who can remove medical conditions (Medical Conditions) from a driver's license in Alberta, and what is the process?

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Last updated: March 28, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

In Alberta, medical codes on a driver's license can only be removed by a physician who must submit documentation to Alberta Transportation confirming that the medical condition no longer affects the person's ability to drive safely. To have a medical code removed, you need to visit your doctor for an assessment of your current condition. If your doctor determines that your condition has improved or is now properly managed, they will complete a Medical Examination for Motor Vehicle Operators form and submit it to Alberta Transportation's Driver Fitness and Monitoring department. The department will review the medical evidence and make a decision about removing the restriction. This process typically takes 4-6 weeks for review 1. You cannot remove these codes yourself, as they are placed on licenses to ensure public safety based on medical conditions that might affect driving ability. Once approved, you'll need to get a new driver's license issued without the code, which may require paying a replacement license fee at a registry office.

Process for Removing Medical Codes

  • Visit your doctor for an assessment of your current condition
  • If your condition has improved or is properly managed, your doctor will complete a Medical Examination for Motor Vehicle Operators form
  • The form will be submitted to Alberta Transportation's Driver Fitness and Monitoring department for review
  • The department will make a decision about removing the restriction after reviewing the medical evidence
  • If approved, you'll need to get a new driver's license issued without the code, which may require paying a replacement license fee at a registry office

Importance of Medical Assessment

The medical assessment is crucial in determining whether a person's medical condition affects their ability to drive safely 1. The assessment should focus on the individual's ability to detect and appropriately treat potential hypoglycemia, as well as any other medical conditions that may impact their driving ability. The physician's documentation should confirm that the medical condition no longer affects the person's ability to drive safely.

Role of Alberta Transportation

Alberta Transportation's Driver Fitness and Monitoring department plays a critical role in reviewing medical evidence and making decisions about removing restrictions on driver's licenses 1. The department ensures that public safety is maintained by only allowing individuals with medical conditions to drive if they can do so safely.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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