Motorists living with diabetes and various other health conditions are facing the threat of substantial fines. Failing to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about a specific medical condition that might impair driving ability could result in penalties reaching £1,000.

The DVLA has published guidance making it clear that a wide range of conditions have the potential to affect safe driving. These fall under the category of ‘notifiable’ medical conditions or disabilities, meaning certain health concerns are required to be disclosed as they may jeopardise driving safety.

Additionally, some health problems or disabilities not specifically listed in official guidance may still require reporting if they have deteriorated since the driving licence was originally issued. The DVLA’s guidance cautions: “You could be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a condition that might affect your ability to drive safely.

“You could also be prosecuted if you have an accident.”

Health conditions that must be reported to the DVLA

If you possess a driving licence and are affected by any of the following seven conditions, they may compromise your driving capabilities and must be disclosed to the DVLA:

• Diabetes or taking insulin
• Syncope (fainting)
• Sleep apnoea
• Strokes
• Glaucoma
• Heart conditions (including atrial fibrillation and pacemakers)
• Epilepsy