For many people, driving is an essential part of daily life, providing independence and the ability to work, travel, and socialise. However, certain medical conditions can significantly impact a person’s ability to drive safely.
In the UK, drivers are legally required to declare specific medical conditions to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Failing to do so can have serious legal and personal consequences.
What medical conditions need to be declared?
The DVLA provides a comprehensive list of medical conditions that must be reported, but in general, a condition should be declared if it affects a person’s ability to drive safely. Some of the most common conditions requiring disclosure include:
Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
Diabetes (particularly if it requires insulin treatment or causes hypoglycaemic episodes)
Heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation, arrhythmias, or recent heart surgery
Stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
Neurological conditions, including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and motor neurone disease
Visual impairments that do not meet the DVLA’s minimum eyesight standards
Mental health conditions such as severe depression, psychosis, or bipolar disorder (if they impact driving ability)
Sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnoea, that cause excessive daytime sleepiness
It is important to check the DVLA’s full guidance or consult a medical professional if there is any uncertainty about whether a condition needs to be declared.
Drivers with a LGV or PCV entitlement on their licence may be required to report additional medical conditions to the DVLA.
What happens when a medical condition is declared?
Declaring a medical condition to the DVLA does not automatically mean that a driver will lose their licence. The DVLA will assess the information provided and may request additional medical reports from a GP or specialist. Depending on the nature and severity of the condition, several outcomes are possible:
The driver may be allowed to continue driving with no restrictions.
The driver may be allowed to continue driving, but with requirements.
The licence may be issued for a limited period (e.g., one to three years), requiring periodic reassessment.
The driver may be required to adapt their vehicle or comply with specific conditions.
In cases where it is deemed unsafe for the individual to continue driving, the licence may be revoked.
If a licence is revoked, the individual has the right to appeal the decision. However, they must provide medical evidence to support their case.
What are the consequences of failing to declare a medical condition?
Failing to inform the DVLA of a relevant medical condition can have severe repercussions, both legally and personally. Potential consequences include:
Prosecution – Failing to notify the DVLA of a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely can result in fine of up to £1,000.00. Should you be involved in an incident or collision, this could result in prosecution for a criminal offence carrying a punishment of a fine, penalty points, a disqualification from driving or in the most serious circumstances, imprisonment.
Insurance invalidation – Most insurance policies require full disclosure of medical conditions. If an undeclared condition contributes to an incident or collision, the insurer may refuse to cover damages, leaving the driver personally liable for costs.
Increased risk of accidents – Medical conditions that impair driving ability pose a serious risk to both the driver and others on the road. Failing to disclose a condition could result in preventable harm or fatalities.
Difficulty regaining a licence – If the DVLA discovers an undisclosed medical condition, it may take longer for the individual to regain their licence, and the process may be more complex.
If you have notified the DVLA of a medical condition affecting your ability to drive safely and thereafter fail to drive in accordance with any requirements imposed by the DVLA, for example, by not wearing corrective vision glasses, you may be prosecuted for driving otherwise that in accordance with a licence.
Seek legal advice if you are affected
Navigating medical declarations and their impact on driving can be complex. If you have concerns about whether you need to declare a condition, are facing licence revocation, or are dealing with legal or insurance consequences, it is crucial to seek professional advice.
At LMP Legal, we have extensive experience in assisting individuals with medical declaration issues, licence appeals, and related legal matters. Our expert team can guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
If you need legal support, contact LMP Legal today for tailored advice and representation.
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