DVLA

Question 1

Epilepsy/seizures
first unprovoked/isolated seizure

Answer 1

must not drive and must inform the DVLA

first unprovoked/isolated seizure: 6 months off if there are no relevant structural abnormalities on brain imaging and no definite epileptiform activity on EEG. If these conditions are not met then this is increased to 12 months

Question 2

established epilepsy or those with multiple unprovoked seizures

Answer 2

may qualify for a driving licence if they have been free from any seizure for 12 months
if there have been no seizures for 5 years (with medication if necessary) a ‘til 70 licence is usually restored

Question 3

withdrawal of epilepsy medication

Answer 3

should not drive whilst anti-epilepsy medication is being withdrawn and for 6 months after the last dose

Question 4

simple faint:

Answer 4

no restriction

Question 5

single episode syncope, explained and treated

Answer 5

4 weeks off

Question 6

single episode syncope, unexplained

Answer 6

: 6 months off

Question 7

two or more episodes

Answer 7

12 months off

Question 8

stroke or TIA

Answer 8

1 month off driving, may not need to inform DVLA if no residual neurological deficit

Question 9

multiple TIAs over short period of times

Answer 9

3 months off driving and inform DVLA

Question 10

craniotomy e.g. For meningioma:

Answer 10

1 year off driving*

*if the tumour is a benign meningioma and there is no seizure history, licence can be reconsidered 6 months after surgery if remains seizure free

Question 11

pituitary tumour: craniotomy

Answer 11

: 6 months; trans-sphenoidal surgery ‘can drive when there is no debarring residual impairment likely to affect safe driving’

Question 12

narcolepsy/cataplexy:

Answer 12

cease driving on diagnosis, can restart once ‘satisfactory control of symptoms’

Question 13

chronic neurological disorders e.g. multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease

Answer 13

DVLA should be informed, complete PK1 form (application for driving licence holders state of health)