Medical Advice Portal
Have you ever wondered or worried about how your condition could affect your medical exam? Do you need advice on how to stay healthy while driving? Our Advice Portal details common conditions that can impact you as a driver
Condition
Blood pressure (BP)
Can I hold a Group 2 licence if I have high blood pressure?
Yes, you can hold a Group 2 licence if your blood pressure is well-controlled and does not cause symptoms such as dizziness or fainting. Your blood pressure must meet the DVLA’s medical standards.
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I have high blood pressure?
No, you do not need to inform the DVLA if your high blood pressure is well-controlled with or without medication. However, if it causes complications or symptoms that affect your ability to drive, you must notify the DVLA.
What is the DVLA’s blood pressure requirement for Group 2 drivers?
Your blood pressure must be consistently below 180/100 mmHg during your medical assessment. If your blood pressure exceeds this threshold, you will not meet the fitness-to-drive standards until it is controlled.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle if my blood pressure is not well-controlled?
No, if your blood pressure is consistently above 180/100 mmHg or causes symptoms such as dizziness, you will not meet the DVLA’s standards and must stop driving until your condition is under control.
How will my blood pressure be assessed during my Group 2 medical evaluation?
Your blood pressure will be measured during the medical assessment. If it is above the DVLA’s acceptable threshold, you may be asked to undergo further evaluation or treatment before your application can proceed.
Do medications for high blood pressure affect my ability to drive?
Most blood pressure medications are safe for driving. However, some may cause side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness, which should be discussed with your doctor. You must not drive if these side effects impair your ability to drive safely.
What happens if my blood pressure is too high during the medical assessment?
If your blood pressure is found to be above 180/100 mmHg during the assessment, you will not pass the medical. You will need to work with your healthcare provider to control your blood pressure before reapplying.
Will I need regular medical reviews for high blood pressure?
If you hold a Group 2 licence and have a history of high blood pressure, you may need periodic medical assessments to ensure your condition remains stable and within the DVLA’s acceptable limits.
Can lifestyle changes help me meet the DVLA’s blood pressure standards?
Yes, lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, reducing salt intake, and managing stress can help lower blood pressure. Combined with medication, if needed, these changes can help you meet the required standards.
Please refer to this very useful link for lifestyle changes: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-pressure/
Diabetes
Diabetes can have serious consequences beyond your driving if not managed properly
Can I hold a Group 2 licence if I have diabetes?
Yes, you can hold a Group 2 licence if your diabetes is well-managed and you meet the DVLA’s medical standards. Specific requirements depend on whether your diabetes is treated with insulin, tablets, or diet alone.
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I have diabetes?
You must inform the DVLA if your diabetes is treated with insulin or certain medications that can cause hypoglycaemia. If your diabetes is controlled by diet alone, you do not need to notify the DVLA.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle if I use insulin to manage my diabetes?
Yes, you can drive a Group 2 vehicle if you use insulin, but you must meet strict criteria. This includes demonstrating stable blood sugar control, no episodes of severe hypoglycaemia in the last 12 months, and regular blood glucose monitoring.
What is the DVLA’s blood glucose monitoring requirement for Group 2 drivers?
Group 2 drivers on insulin or medications that cause hypoglycaemia must check their blood glucose levels with a blood glucose meter (not a continuous glucose monitor) no more than 2 hours before driving and every 2 hours during the journey. Records must be kept for medical assessments.
What happens if I have a severe hypoglycaemic episode?
If you experience a severe hypoglycaemic episode (requiring assistance from another person), you must stop driving and inform the DVLA. Driving can only resume after a medical assessment confirms your fitness to drive. If it’s so severe so as to require assistance from a third-party, your licence may be revoked. You must then not have a further episode for a minimum of 12 months before consideration for your licence to be reinstated.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle if I manage my diabetes with tablets or injections that don’t cause hypoglycaemia?
Yes, you can drive if your diabetes is managed with medications that do not cause hypoglycaemia, provided your condition is stable and does not affect your ability to drive.
How will my diabetes be assessed during a Group 2 medical evaluation?
The assessment will include a review of your diabetes management, blood glucose monitoring records, and any complications, such as visual or nerve issues. You may also need a specialist report from your diabetes team.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle if I have diabetes complications?
It depends on the severity of the complications. For example, severe neuropathy or retinopathy may disqualify you. The medical examiner will assess the impact of any complications on your ability to drive safely.
Do I need to keep a record of my blood glucose levels for the medical assessment?
Yes, if you are on insulin or medications that cause hypoglycaemia, you must provide at least three months of blood glucose monitoring records during your medical assessment. These must be from a blood glucose meter that stores readings (These must not be via a CGM device such as Libre).
Will I need regular medical reviews for my diabetes?
Yes, the DVLA requires regular medical reviews for drivers with diabetes treated with insulin or certain medications. The frequency of reviews depends on your individual circumstances and how well your diabetes is controlled.
What is the 3-month rule with insulin-dependent diabetics and eligibility for a Group 2 licence?
If you’ve been started on insulin to control your diabetes, you must have been on it for at least 3 months before applying for or renewing your Group 2 licence.
Cardiovascular
A healthy heart is key for your fitness to drive
Can I hold a Group 2 licence if I have a cardiovascular condition?
Yes, you may hold a Group 2 licence if your cardiovascular condition is well-managed and does not impair your ability to drive safely. A medical assessment will be required to ensure you meet the DVLA’s fitness-to-drive standards.
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I have a cardiovascular condition?
Yes, you must notify the DVLA if you have a cardiovascular condition that affects your ability to drive safely. Conditions like heart attack, angina, arrhythmias, or heart surgery must be reported.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle after a heart attack?
You must stop driving a Group 2 vehicle for at least 6 weeks following a heart attack. You can only resume driving after a medical assessment confirms your recovery and fitness to drive.
What happens if I have angina?
You can drive a Group 2 vehicle if your angina is well-controlled and does not occur during rest or while driving. If your symptoms worsen, you must stop driving and inform the DVLA.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle if I have a pacemaker or ICD?
You can drive if you have a pacemaker and it has been functioning well for at least 6 weeks. If you have an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD), Group 2 driving is generally not permitted due to the risk of sudden incapacitation.
What if I have an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)?
You may drive a Group 2 vehicle if your arrhythmia is well-controlled and you have no symptoms that could affect your ability to drive, such as dizziness or blackouts. The DVLA will require a cardiology assessment.
How will my cardiovascular condition be assessed during my Group 2 medical evaluation?
The assessment will include a review of your medical history, any medications you take, and recent investigations such as ECGs, stress tests, or echocardiograms. You may also need a specialist report from your cardiologist.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle after heart surgery?
It depends on the type of surgery. For example:
- CABG (Coronary Artery Bypass Graft):You must stop driving for at least 3 months.
- Valve Replacement:You must stop driving for at least 3 months.
You can only resume driving after a medical assessment confirms your recovery and fitness to drive.
Can I drive with high blood pressure (hypertension)?
You can drive if your blood pressure is well-controlled and does not cause symptoms such as dizziness or fainting. The DVLA requires that blood pressure is below 180/100 mmHg during the medical assessment.
What if I have heart failure?
You can drive a Group 2 vehicle if your heart failure is stable, your ejection fraction meets DVLA requirements, and you have no symptoms like severe breathlessness or fatigue that could impair driving.
Could taking medication to manage a heart condition disqualify me from driving?
As long as your condition is well-managed and stable, they wouldn’t necessarily do so. Because of their side-effect profile, some medications may require additional review.
Will I need to take an exercise tolerance test (ETT) during my assessment?
If you have a history of heart issues, you may in certain situations be required to do one to ensure your heart has good function under physical stress.
I’ve had a previous heart problem, what do I need to bring to the assessment?
You should bring with you any cardiology specialist letters, results of any scans or specialist tests such as exercise tolerance test and echocardiography.
Will I need regular reviews if I have a cardiovascular condition?
Yes, the DVLA may require periodic medical assessments to ensure your condition remains stable. The frequency of reviews will depend on your specific condition and its management.
Vision
It is essential that drivers have good vision
What are the vision requirements for a Group 2 licence?
To hold a Group 2 licence, you must meet the following DVLA vision standards:
- Visual acuity of at least6/7.5 (0.8)in your better eye and 6/60 (0.1) in the other eye, with corrective lenses if required.
- A horizontal visual field of at least 160 degrees, with no significant defects within the central 70 degrees.
- No diplopia (double vision) while driving.
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I have a vision problem?
Yes, you must inform the DVLA if you have any condition that affects your vision and your ability to meet the Group 2 driving standards, such as cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal disorders.
Can I wear glasses or contact lenses to meet the vision requirements?
Yes, you can use corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, to meet the required vision standards. If corrective lenses are needed, your licence will indicate this, and you must wear them while driving.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle if I have cataracts?
You can drive if your cataracts do not significantly impair your vision and you meet the DVLA’s visual acuity and field standards. If the cataracts affect your ability to see clearly, you must stop driving until they are treated.
What happens if I have a visual field defect?
If you have a visual field defect, such as from glaucoma or a stroke, you may need a specialist assessment, including a visual field test. If the defect significantly reduces your peripheral vision, you may not meet the DVLA’s standards for Group 2 driving.
Can I drive with one eye (monocular vision)?
Group 2 drivers must have binocular vision to meet the DVLA’s horizontal visual field requirements. Monocular vision typically disqualifies you from holding a Group 2 licence unless you are granted a specific exception after detailed testing.
How often will my vision be assessed for a Group 2 licence?
Drivers with conditions affecting their vision may require periodic assessments to ensure they continue to meet the DVLA’s standards. The frequency of these assessments depends on the condition and its stability.
Can I drive with colour blindness?
Yes, colour blindness does not affect your ability to hold a Group 2 licence as long as your visual acuity and field meet the DVLA’s requirements.
What is the visual field requirement for a Group 2 licence?
You must have a visual field of at least 160 degrees horizontally, with no significant defects in the central 70 degrees. If you are concerned about your visual field, a specialist visual field test can be performed to confirm whether you meet this requirement.
What should I do if I notice a sudden change in my vision?
If you experience a sudden loss of vision, double vision, or any significant visual change, you must stop driving immediately and consult an eye specialist. You may need to notify the DVLA depending on the nature and severity of the condition.
Mental Health
A stable mental health is paramount for a driver.
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I am diagnosed with a mental health condition?
Yes, you must inform the DVLA if your mental health condition affects your ability to drive safely. Failing to report a relevant condition may result in fines or the invalidation of your licence.
What mental health conditions need to be reported to the DVLA?
Conditions such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis or any condition causing significant cognitive impairment or excessive drowsiness must be reported. The DVLA also requires notification of any condition that requires hospitalisation or significant treatment changes.
Can I hold a Group 2 licence if I have a mental health condition?
Yes, you can hold a Group 2 licence if your mental health condition is well managed and does not impair your ability to drive safely. The DVLA requires a medical assessment to determine your fitness to drive
How will my mental health condition be assessed during my Group 2 medical evaluation?
Your medical evaluation will include a review of your mental health history, current symptoms, and treatment plan. The medical examiner may also assess any medications you are taking to ensure they do not impair your ability to drive.
What if I’m on medication?
It depends. Medications that impair your cognition or make you sleepy may affect your driving ability.
If I have experienced a mental health episode, will this affect my licence?
If the episode is psychotic or severe depression, that will typically impair your ability to drive, then your licence may be suspended until deemed fit.
For DVLA guidance on driving with mental health condition, please refer to this link ( https://www.gov.uk/guidance/psychiatric-disorders-assessing-fitness-to-drive)
Sleep Disorder
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I am diagnosed with sleep apnoea?
Yes, it is a legal requirement to inform the DVLA if you are diagnosed with sleep apnoea, particularly if it causes excessive daytime sleepiness. Failure to report the condition can result in fines or invalidation of your licence.
How will sleep apnoea affect my Group 2 assessment?
Drivers with sleep apnoea must provide evidence of effective treatment, typically involving the use of CPAP machine. You must be able to demonstrate regular use of the machine during the assessment.
What if I have undiagnosed sleep apnoea but suspect I may have symptoms?
If you suspect sleep apnoea symptoms, such as excessive daytime sleepiness or loud snoring, you should consult your GP as soon as possible. Group 2 drivers must not drive until their condition is assessed and managed appropriately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you meet DVLA fitness-to-drive requirements.
Can I still hold a Group 2 licence if I am diagnosed with sleep apnoea?
Yes, you can hold a Group 2 licence if your sleep apnoea is effectively treated and managed. You will need to demonstrate compliance with treatment, such as regular use of a CPAP machine, and show no excessive daytime sleepiness that could affect your driving.
How do I provide evidence of compliance with CPAP machine?
Your CPAP machine records usage data, which can be reviewed and printed by your sleep clinic or healthcare provider. The DVLA requires this data to confirm you are using the machine consistently and effectively.
How long do I need to use my CPAP machine before I can drive again?
You must use your CPAP machine regularly, typically for at least 4 hours per night on 70% of nights, over a period of several weeks. Your compliance will be assessed during your medical evaluation, and driving may only resume once your condition is under control and the DVLA approves.
What if I fail to meet CPAP compliance requirements?
If you are unable to meet CPAP compliance requirements or continue to experience excessive daytime sleepiness, you may not be deemed fit to drive a Group 2 vehicle. It is crucial to work closely with your specialist to address any issues with treatment.
How often will I need to have medical assessments for sleep apnoea?
If you are managing sleep apnoea effectively, the DVLA may require periodic medical assessments to ensure your condition remains under control. The frequency will depend on individual circumstances and compliance with treatment.
Can I switch from CPAP to another treatment method?
Alternative treatments, such as mandibular advancement devices or surgery, may be considered in some cases. However, any treatment must effectively control your symptoms, and your fitness to drive must be reassessed before resuming driving.
Neurological disorders
Can I hold a Group 2 licence if I have a neurological condition?
Yes, you may hold a Group 2 licence if your neurological condition is well-controlled and does not impair your ability to drive safely. A medical assessment will be required to determine your fitness to drive.
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I am diagnosed with a neurological condition?
Yes, you must inform the DVLA if you are diagnosed with a neurological condition that could affect your ability to drive safely. Failing to report such a condition may result in fines or the invalidation of your licence.
What neurological conditions need to be reported to the DVLA?
You must report conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, brain tumours, stroke, or any condition causing blackouts, seizures, or significant cognitive impairment.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle if I have epilepsy?
Group 2 drivers with epilepsy can only hold a licence if they meet strict criteria, such as being seizure-free for at least 10 years without medication. Each case is assessed individually by the DVLA.
What happens if I have a seizure or blackout while holding a Group 2 licence?
If you experience a seizure or blackout, you must stop driving immediately and inform the DVLA. Driving can only resume after a medical assessment and approval from the DVLA, which may require a seizure-free period.
How will my neurological condition be assessed during a Group 2 medical evaluation?
The medical evaluation will review your neurological history, symptoms, and treatment plan. It may also include details of your medication and any recent investigations, such as brain scans or specialist reports.
Can medication for neurological conditions affect my ability to drive?
Yes, some medications, such as those for epilepsy or neuropathic pain, can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed reaction times. These effects will be reviewed during your medical assessment to determine if they impact your ability to drive safely.
Can I drive a Group 2 vehicle after a stroke or TIA?
Group 2 drivers must stop driving after a stroke or TIA and inform the DVLA. You may resume driving if there are no significant residual impairments, such as weakness or visual loss, and the DVLA confirms your fitness to drive.
Will I need periodic medical assessments for my neurological condition?
Yes, the DVLA may require regular medical assessments to ensure your condition remains stable and does not impair your ability to drive. The frequency of these assessments depends on your specific condition.
What if I have a progressive neurological condition, such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis?
If you have a progressive condition, your fitness to drive will be assessed based on your current symptoms and how well they are managed. You must report any worsening symptoms to the DVLA, and you may need periodic reassessments.