Applying and reapplying for your driving licence

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.

• See Epilepsy driving standards

Reapplying for your driving licence

In England, Wales and Scotland, two months before the date you are due to get your licence back – but no sooner – you can write to the driving agency. You should state that you wish to reapply for your licence. In Northern Ireland you will need to submit a DL1 form (Application for a Driving Licence) to DVA. You can only do this two weeks before the date you are due to get your licence back. You should give the date when you should be allowed to start driving again. Include your old driving licence number if you have it.

The driving agency will send you a form to complete, asking about your last seizure. They will ask your consent for a medical enquiry. They will also ask for the name of a doctor who can provide a medical report.

When you can start driving again depends on whether you sent back your last licence voluntarily, or whether it was formally withdrawn (revoked) by the driving agency.

There is no cost for reapplying for your licence, if you surrendered it because of your epilepsy.

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