Informing the DVLA

• Who is the DVLA?
• Who should tell the DVLA about my seizure(s)?
• How should I inform the DVLA?
• Why should I inform the DVLA?
• What happens?

Who is the DVLA?

The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) is the driving licence agency for England, Scotland and Wales.

Who should tell the DVLA about my seizure(s)?

The responsibility for informing the DVLA lies very firmly with you, the driver. However, a person’s doctor has a legal duty to protect the general public. This comes before the doctor’s duty to protect their patient’s confidentiality. If you continue to drive when your doctor has told you that you are unfit, then your doctor may be obliged to inform the DVLA.

How should I inform the DVLA?

You can do this by writing to the DVLA telling them the date of your last seizure. You may also choose to voluntarily send your driving licence back with the letter. If you do this, you may wish to keep a photocopy of your licence and ask at the Post Office for proof of posting.

For more information about why you might choose voluntarily to return your driving licence, see How do I apply or reapply for my driving licence?

Why should I inform the DVLA?

However disappointed you may feel about the loss of your licence, it is important to admit that you have had a seizure. Even a minor seizure can affect your ability to drive and put your own safety, and that of others, at risk.

If you continue to drive after a diagnosis of epilepsy has been made you will need to consider the following facts.

• You are putting yourself and other people at risk.
• You are breaking the law and could be prosecuted.
• Your licence is not valid.
• Claims on your motor insurance may not be met.

What happens after I have informed the DVLA?

If you sent your licence back voluntarily, the DVLA does not need to contact your doctor for any more information.

If you did not send your licence back, the DVLA will send you a questionnaire asking for the name of your doctor, who will need to provide a medical report.

The DVLA will then write and tell you if you are disqualified from driving. If you are, they will now ask you to send your licence back.

10 July 2007