The DVLA has removed over 140,000 driving licences in the last two years after being notified about medical conditions that could affect road safety. Licences were revoked, new applications refused, or drivers voluntarily surrendered their entitlements following these notifications.
What happens when a medical condition is reported
Motorists are legally obliged to inform the DVLA about any condition that could impact their ability to drive safely. When a notification is received, the DVLA may revoke a licence if the driver is considered to be a safety risk. The latest figures include cases where licences were cancelled due to eyesight-related conditions and other medical issues.
The data was released following a freedom of information request submitted by Marshall Motor Group. According to the figures, there are likely many more drivers with conditions that the DVLA has not yet been notified about.
Government plans for older drivers
The figures come as the Government prepares to tighten safety laws around older motorists. Under proposals published in a new road safety strategy, drivers aged over 70 would have to take mandatory eyesight tests to prove they are safe to be behind the wheel. They may also undergo "cognitive" tests to check focus and reaction times.
The Government wants to tighten safety rules following a number of tragedies in recent years, which has sparked growing calls for tougher checks to ensure people are safe to continue driving.
Current rules and expert advice
Under existing laws, it is down to motorists to flag up medical conditions themselves, which comes with obvious dangers. Ben Welham, motoring expert at Marshall Motor Group, said: "Many people with medical conditions are still able to drive safely, but it's important for drivers to understand when they need to tell the DVLA.
"A notifiable condition is one that could affect your ability to drive safely. This could include issues with eyesight, consciousness, mobility, memory, reaction times or a condition that could cause sudden symptoms behind the wheel.
"Drivers shouldn't try to guess whether a condition matters, especially if they've recently been diagnosed or their symptoms have changed. The safest approach is to check the official DVLA guidance for that condition and speak to a doctor if they are unsure.
"Ignoring a diagnosis, medical advice or DVLA correspondence can have serious consequences. Drivers could face a fine if they fail to tell the DVLA about a condition that might affect their ability to drive safely, and the safety risks can be even more serious."
