Yahoo News DVLA could 'revoke' driving licences for drivers on three common medications
The DVLA could revoke driving licences for motorists and road users on three popular medications. Greg Wilson, CEO of the insurance price comparison service Quotezone, has issued a warning over painkillers, certain antidepressants, and tranquillisers.
Mr Wilson advised: "If you are on strong medications, it is likely that you will be recommended to avoid driving. Opioid painkillers, tranquillisers, and certain antidepressants are examples of medicines that can affect driving ability – as well as those that cause drowsiness or say ‘do not operate heavy machinery'."
The NHS warns some antidepressants can cause dizziness, drowsiness and blurred vision, particularly when you first start taking them. If you do experience these problems, you should not drive or use tools and machinery. On its website, the DVLA says: "You only need to tell DVLA if your depression affects your ability to drive safely.
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"You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving. You may be prosecuted if you’re involved in an accident as a result. Ask your doctor if you’re not sure if your depression will affect your driving.
"You must tell DVLA if your condition will affect your driving. Fill in the M1 questionnaire and send it to DVLA. The address is on the form." After you tell DVLA, then you’ll get a decision by letter. Your application may need further information from a healthcare professional, depending on your condition.
DVLA might contact your doctor or consultant or arrange for you to be examined or ask you to take a driving assessment, or an eyesight or driving test. Your application may take longer than usual if it needs to be referred to a doctor (unless you’re applying for a bus or lorry licence).
You can usually keep driving while DVLA are considering your application. If you’ve told DVLA about a condition when applying to renew your licence, follow the guidance about driving that’s in the form.
