The DVLA has faced sharp criticism from MPs for leaving thousands of drivers unable to drive, despite them following official guidance to declare medical conditions. The system, described as too slow and outdated, is punishing those who comply with the rules.
MPs Speak Out
Vikki Slade, Liberal Democrats MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, expressed frustration over constituents who have followed DVLA guidance by declaring medical conditions or reapplying after a temporary suspension. She noted that applicants often wait months without meaningful updates, causing anxiety and distress.
Slade highlighted that although the DVLA's strategic priority is to increase digital engagement, the medical licensing system remains stubbornly analogue. The department does not routinely use email, proactively chase missing documents, or provide status updates. It still relies on posting medical questionnaires to GPs and consultants.
She stated: "Unless someone chases their MP, who then chases the DVLA and pushes the constituent to chase their clinician, cases simply stall. Applicants are left idling, with no sense of when or if the system will move them forward. This is not a functioning public service."
Example Case
Slade shared the case of Ellie, who submitted a medical questionnaire in March 2025 relating to possible epilepsy. Her symptoms stopped following B12 injections, and her consultant confirmed in writing that she was fit to drive. Six months later, she received a call from the DVLA and confirmed no further episodes. A month after that, her licence was revoked without notification. She discovered this only in January 2026 when she checked her driving licence online.
When Ellie contacted the DVLA, she was told her medical questionnaire was missing—one that had never been sent to her. After resubmitting forms in February 2026, she was informed that the original paperwork from the previous year could not be located. A full year after first engaging with the DVLA, her case is now classed as high priority after daily contact from her, sometimes 12 times a day. Slade commented: "No one should have to fight that hard to prove that they are safe to drive."
Underlying Issue
The underlying issue is simple: the DVLA is stuck in manual mode while the rest of society operates on automatic. Medical applications are processed strictly in date order, correspondence with clinicians happens by post, and returned documents then sit in another queue. This system is designed around administrative convenience, not the human impact.
