Driving and epilepsy
If you drive, one immediate effect of having a seizure is that you have to stop driving. This is true for all types of seizure, and whether you have a diagnosis of epilepsy or not. For many people, this can have a big impact on their life and can also be difficult and upsetting.
What the driving regulations mean for you
This information is for people who have epilepsy and covers Group 1 (cars and motorbikes) and Group 2 (buses, coaches and lorries) licences.
Driving regulations
When you can drive depends on the type of seizures you have now, the type of seizures you have had previously, and what type of licence you have.
Car insurance
If you stop driving due to a seizure, you need to tell your insurance company as part of your insurance terms and conditions. If you don't tell them, this could invalidate your insurance and may affect your insurance in the future.
Interactive guide to the driving regulations
Use our interactive guide to the driving regulations for people with epilepsy in the UK to find out how the driving regulations apply to you.
Driving agencies including the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
If you've had a seizure you must tell the driving agency - the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Great Britain, or the Driver Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland. You will also have to tell your insurance company.
Help with travel costs
Details of travel support schemes for people with epilepsy across the UK.
Information produced: May 2023
Want to know more?
Download our Driving leaflet