Organisation: Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)
Date uploaded: 31st July 2014
Date published/launched: July 2014
The DVLA has published guidance for drivers who have experienced an epileptic seizure.
The Medical Standards relating to driving with epilepsy are very detailed. The new DVLA guidance covers the main facts and directs people to where they can find more information to help them understand how the standards apply to them.
The guidance explains that car drivers and motorcycle riders will usually be granted a three-year licence as long as they have not had an epileptic attack in the last 12 months, and they comply with the advice of their doctor or consultant concerning treatment and check-ups.
Once a driver/rider has been seizure free for five years, they will usually be issued a licence valid until aged 70 years.
For a first unprovoked epileptic seizure, drivers/riders must take six months off driving, unless there is high risk of further seizures in which case this is extended to 12 months.
Lorry and bus drivers will be issued with a driving licence if they remain seizure free for 10 years without taking any anti epilepsy medication. The duration of the licence will depend on the individual medical details of the driver.
After a first unprovoked epileptic seizure, lorry and bus drivers must take five years off driving and undergo an assessment by a neurologist. The driver should have taken no anti-epilepsy medication throughout the five-year period.
In all cases, DVLA must be informed of any seizure.
For more information contact: