Drivers who have high blood pressure warned of £1,000 fine under DVLA rules

Sonia Sharma

16 September 2024 at 8:06 am·2-min read

Drivers are being reminded of DVLA rules — -Credit: (Image: PA)

A warning has been issued to drivers who have high blood pressure.

Motoring experts say those with the health condition risk a fine or even court prosecution if they flout DVLA rules. Those whose driving could be affected due to malignant hypertension may be required to report their condition to the DVLA.

Failing to report it can have serious consequences, including a fine of up to £1,000. And experts from Big Wants Your Car have also warned that drivers could face court if their condition leads to an accident.

A spokesperson said: "Failing to inform the DVLA about a medical condition like high blood pressure can lead to a fine of up to £1,000. This condition is important to report because it can suddenly impair your ability to drive safely, putting both you and others at risk. The DVLA's regulations are in place to ensure that all drivers on the road are fit to operate their vehicles.

"Drivers who do not report high blood pressure to the DVLA are not just risking a fine — they could also face prosecution if their condition leads to an accident. It's crucial to follow the DVLA's guidelines, which require you to stop driving until a doctor confirms your blood pressure is under control and consistently below 180/110mmHg."

The DVLA has the following guidance on its website.

Car or motorcycle licence

You do not need to tell DVLA if you have high blood pressure. You must stop driving if a doctor says you have malignant hypertension. You can drive again when both the following apply:

a doctor confirms that your condition is well controlled
your blood pressure is consistently below 180/110mmHg

Bus, coach or lorry licence

You must tell DVLA if you have high blood pressure.

You have hypertension

Fill in form BP1V and send it to DVLA. The address is on the form. You do not need to stop driving unless a doctor says you have malignant hypertension.

You have malignant hypertension

Fill in form VOCH1 and send it to DVLA. The address is on the form.

You must stop driving. You can drive again when both the following apply:

a doctor confirms that your condition is well controlled
your blood pressure is consistently below 180/100mmHg

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Car or motorcycle licence

Bus, coach or lorry licence

You have hypertension

You have malignant hypertension

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