Starting August 25, new rules on medical checkups for drivers over 65 take effect in Kazakhstan. However, the Ministry of Internal Affairs says there is no reason to panic: the mandatory medical exam has been in place since 2014, and the innovation merely automates the consequences of skipping it, reports infohub.kz.
Shyngys Alekeshev, an official representative of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, explained the rules for mandatory medical checkups for drivers over 65 in a video address published on the Telegram channel "Novosti MVD RK". The explanation came in response to a large number of questions from citizens following recent publications and some rumors. The representative stressed that there is no reason for concern.
He reminded that the mandatory medical checkup for drivers in this age group has long been in effect — since 2014. From August 25, only one change takes effect: if a person fails to undergo the medical exam on time, their driver's license may be temporarily suspended automatically. "Only this procedure is new; the medical checkup itself is a long-standing requirement," Alekeshev explained.
The official MIA representative also answered a frequent question: do those who turned 65 this year need to undergo the medical exam? According to him, there is no rush. "The first mandatory medical checkup must be completed by age 67. After that, the certificate is valid for two years. The next checkup is at 69, then at 71, and so on. So those who are currently 65 do not need to create a fuss or stand in lines. You can calmly undergo the medical exam closer to age 67," he explained.
Shyngys Alekeshev also noted that the medical checkup can be done at any medical facility — a state polyclinic, a private clinic, at one's place of residence, or in another city. The key is that the facility must have the right (competence) to conduct such exams.
Responding to a question about the consequences of skipping the medical exam, the MIA representative emphasized that driver's licenses may be temporarily suspended, but this is not revocation. As soon as the exam is passed, the license becomes valid again automatically. Initially, patrol police officers will primarily explain the new rules and warn drivers. If a person did not know or forgot about the need for the medical checkup, they will be allowed to take it without issue.
In addition, the official representative denied rumors about fines for not undergoing the medical exam. "That is not true. We officially state that no separate fine for missing medical checkups is provided by law. The only consequence is the temporary suspension of the driver's license until the exam is completed," Alekeshev declared.
The MIA also explained what to do if the medical checkup has already been completed but the information in the database has not been updated. "There is no need to worry. If you have already undergone the exam, simply show the police officer the paper medical certificate. He will inform those who will include this information in the database," he said.
Shyngys Alekeshev urged all drivers not to give in to rumors and assured that if questions arise, the MIA will explain the new regulations "in plain language." It was previously reported that starting August 25 in Kazakhstan, drivers over 65 as well as drivers with disabilities will be required to undergo medical checkups every two years.