Dementia, Driving and the Law
Being given a diagnosis of dementia does not automatically exclude you from driving; however there is a legal obligation to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) of the diagnosis. The car insurance company must also be informed immediately.
If you do not want to carry on driving you should return your driving licence to the DVLA.
If you have a diagnosis of dementia, and do want to continue driving, the DVLA will undertake a medical investigation. The DVLA will ask for your consent for its medical advisors to get reports from your doctor and specialists.
You may also need to take a special driving assessment. An assessment will be made of your driving abilities. You will be offered advice recommendations, information and support. The DVLA then has two possible courses of action:
- It may issue a new driving licence that will be valid for a limited period of one year.
- If the DVLA considers that you are not fit to continue driving, it will revoke your licence and ask for its return.
For more detailed information please refer to:
- DVLA Drivers Information - Medical Rules
- Alzheimer's Society - Driving and dementia
You may also find the downloadable booklet At the Crossroads helpful.
