DVLA: neurological disorders

Question 1

with Epilepsy/seizures

Answer 1

all patient must not drive and must inform the DVLA

Question 2

with first unprovoked/isolated seizure

Answer 2

6 months off the road

Question 3

first unprovoked/isolated seizure with relevant structural abnormalities on brain imaging and definite epileptiform activity on EEG

Answer 3

12 months off the road

Question 4

patients with established epilepsy or those with multiple unprovoked seizures:
may qualify for a driving licence if

Answer 4

free from any seizure for 12 months

if there have been no seizures for 5 years (with medication if necessary)

Question 5

Patients with withdrawawl of epilepsy medication

Answer 5

should not drive whilst anti-epilepsy medication is being withdrawn and for 6 months after the last dose

Question 6

single syncope episode, explained and treated

Answer 6

4 weeks off

Question 7

simple faint

Answer 7

no restriction

Question 8

single syncope episode, unexplained

Answer 8

6 months off

Question 9

two or more syncope episodes

Answer 9

12 months off

Question 10

stroke or TIA:

Answer 10

1 month off driving
no need to inform DVLA - if no residual neurological deficit

Question 11

multiple TIAs over short period of times

Answer 11

3 months off driving and inform DVLA

Question 12

craniotomy e.g. For meningioma

Answer 12

1 year off driving

Question 13

pituitary tumour: craniotomy

Answer 13

6 months

Question 14

trans-sphenoidal surgery for pituitary tumor ?

Answer 14

can drive when there is no debarring residual impairment

Question 15

narcolepsy/cataplexy:

Answer 15

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

Question 16

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

Answer 16

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