DVLA "at a glance" fitness to drive - Heart Rhythm UK

-The applicant or licence holder must notify DVLA unless stated otherwise in the text
Appendix 1
DISABLED DRIVERS
CARS (Group 1)
Driving is possible in both static and progressive or relapsing disorders but vehicle modification may be needed.
1) Permanent Limb Disabilities/ e.g. Amputation, Hemiplegia/Cerebral Palsy, Ankylosing Spondylitis,
Spinal Disabilities
Severe Arthritis, especially with pain
2) Chronic Neurological Disorders: e.g. Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease,
Motor Neurone Disease, peripheral neuropathy
Sophisticated vehicle adaptation is now possible and varies from automatic transmission to joy sticks and infra red
controls for people with severe disabilities.
The DVLA will need to know which, if any, of the controls require to be modified and will ask the patient to complete a
simple questionnaire. The driving licence will then be coded to reflect the modifications. A list of assessment centres is
available at appendix 2 on page 42, which will be able to give advice should the licence holder require it.
NB: A person in receipt of the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance may hold a
driving licence from 16 years of age.
LGV/PCV (Group 2)
Some disabilities may be compatible with the driving of large vehicles if mild and non-progressive. Individual
assessment will be required.
ELECTRICALLY PROPELLED INVALID CARRIAGES (CLASS 2 & 3)
Class 2 vehicles are limited to 4 miles per hour and Class 3 vehicles to 8 miles per hour whilst on the road.
Users of these vehicles are not required to hold a driving licence and so are not required to meet the medical standards
required of drivers of motor vehicles. However, individuals whose medical condition may affect their ability to drive
an invalid carriage safely are advised to consult their GP before using these vehicles. We also recommend that the
user is able to read a car number plate from a distance of 12.3 metres (40 ft). For further details please refer to the
publication “Code of Practice for Class 3 Vehicle Users” available from the Mobility & Inclusion Unit, Department
for Transport, Great Minster House, 76 Marsham Street, London SW1P 4DR; Tel: 0207 944 4461; Fax: 0207 944
6102; Email: miu@dft.gsi.gov.uk
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