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Informing the DVLNI

Last checked 18/06/2008

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Who is the DVLNI?

The DVLNI (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Northern Ireland) is the driving licence agency for Northern Ireland.

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

The responsibility for informing the DVLNI 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 DVLNI.

How should I inform the DVLNI?

You can do this by writing to the DVLNI, 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.

Why should I inform the DVLNI?

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 DVLNI?

The DVLNI will send you a form to complete and ask your permission to contact your doctor for a medical report. In some cases they may ask for you to be examined by one of the agency’s nominated medical advisers.

The DVLNI 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, if you have not already done so.

10 July 2007

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