What is an Extraordinary Driver’s Licence in Western Australia?
An Extraordinary Driver’s Licence (EDL) in Western Australia is a special type of driver’s licence issued by the Western Australia Police that allows individuals who have lost their driver’s licence to continue to drive under certain conditions. EDLs are typically issued to people who have lost their driver’s licence due to medical conditions, such as a seizure disorder or diabetes, or due to certain criminal convictions.
To be eligible for an EDL, an applicant must have a medical condition or conviction that would normally disqualify them from holding a driver’s licence, and must be able to demonstrate that they are able to drive safely. The applicant must also meet the licencing requirements of the Western Australia Police and provide any necessary medical or other evidence.
An EDL will typically include conditions such as regular medical check-ups, restrictions on the type of vehicle that can be driven, and limitations on when and where the individual can drive. The EDL may also include additional testing requirements, such as an on-road driving test.
It is important to note that an EDL is a privilege and not a right, and that the Western Australia Police have the discretion to revoke an EDL at any time if the holder is found to be unable to drive safely.
How can an Extraordinary Driver’s Licence lawyer help?
An Extraordinary Driver’s Licence (EDL) lawyer in Western Australia can help individuals who have lost their driver’s licence due to medical conditions, or certain criminal convictions by providing legal advice and representation during the application process for an EDL. They can assist with the preparation and submission of the application and can represent their clients in any appeal or review proceedings.
Specifically, an EDL lawyer can help by:
- Assessing the eligibility of the applicant and the likelihood of success of an application,
- Advising on the medical or other evidence required to support an application,
- Preparing and submitting the application,
- Representing the client in any appeal or review proceedings, if necessary,
- Advising on the conditions that may be imposed on an EDL and the impact on the individual’s ability to drive.
Additionally, an EDL lawyer can also help clients understand the legal requirements for obtaining an EDL, the discretion that the Western Australia Police have in the process and the consequences of not complying with the conditions of an EDL.
It is important to note that EDLs are not automatic, and that the Western Australian Department of Transport has discretion in deciding whether to grant an EDL, and under what conditions. So it’s recommended to seek legal advice to understand the process and have a better chance of success in the application.
What are the steps involving an Extraordinary Driver’s Licence in Western Australia?
The steps involved in obtaining an Extraordinary Driver’s Licence (EDL) in Western Australia typically include:
- Assessing Eligibility: The first step is to determine whether the individual is eligible for an EDL, based on their medical condition or conviction.
- Obtaining Medical Reports: The individual will need to obtain medical reports or other evidence to support their application, including a report from a specialist relevant to their condition.
- Submitting the Application: The individual will need to submit their application, along with the medical reports and any other required evidence, to the Western Australia Police.
- Review of the Application: The Western Australia Police will review the application and make a decision on whether to grant an EDL and under what conditions.
- Notification of Decision: The individual will be notified of the decision, and if the EDL is granted, it will be issued with conditions.
- Compliance with conditions: The individual must comply with the conditions of the EDL, including regular medical check-ups, restrictions on the type of vehicle that can be driven, and limitations on when and where the individual can drive.
- Renewal: EDLs are typically issued for a limited period of time and will need to be renewed at the end of the period.
It is important to note that the process of obtaining an EDL can be complex and time-consuming, and that the Western Australian Department of Transport have discretion in deciding whether to grant an EDL, and under what conditions. It is always recommended to seek legal advice from a lawyer to understand the process and have a better chance of success in the application.
The highly experienced lawyers at Rebus Legal can provide advice and act for you in these matters. Call our 1800 732 875 number and take advantage of a free 15-minute consultation.