These pages are about driving laws in the UK. If you are looking for information about driving laws in another country, please contact your local epilepsy organisation.
Applying for your driving licence for the first time
Before you can start driving you will need a provisional driving licence. In England, Wales and Scotland you can apply online at www.direct.gov.uk or complete an application form available from Post Offices. In Northern Ireland you can get an application form from Post Offices, Local Vehicle Licensing Offices or MOT centres. To be allowed a provisional driving licence you will have to meet the epilepsy driving standards.
Reapplying for your driving licence
You should check with your doctor that you can meet the medical standards of fitness to drive before you re-apply for your driving licence. These standards are set out in the 'At a glance guide to the current standards of fitness to drive'. All medical practitioners have access to this publication.
To reapply for your licence you will need to complete two forms. In England, Scotland and Wales it is the D1 form, whilst in Northern Ireland it is the DL1 form. Everyone has to also complete a medical questionnaire. In Northern Ireland these forms can only be sent in two weeks before the date the person can legally drive again. In England, Scotland and Wales, these forms can be sent up to two months before that date. The forms are available from the form ordering service at the DVA/DVLA, or from Post Office® branches. The medical questionnaire for epilepsy can be found using the DVLA medical A to Z webpages.
What if the driving agency refuses my reapplication for a licence?
You can write to the driving agency asking them to reconsider your case. You will need to explain why you believe their decision is wrong, and send with your letter, a letter of support from your GP or epilepsy specialist. If your request isn’t successful, and you believe the driving agency is acting unlawfully, you can make a formal appeal. See Appeals
This information has been produced under the terms of The Information Standard.
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Updated May 2011To be reviewed May 2013
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Comments
The information given on re-applying for my driving license is very useful.
At least now I have a date to be working towards for this.
I have heard various dates from which I can re-apply, from every man and his dog.
I've got to admit i was hopeful that this time would be limited to six months.
However i'm three months in now, and can at least look forward to re-applying in August!