The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), in coordination with data shared across government bodies including the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and State Pension services, has implemented measures affecting thousands of drivers across the UK. This action follows internal assessments related to medical fitness to drive, where certain health conditions have been flagged as potential road safety risks.
DVLA licensing policies are based on medical evidence and legal obligations, and enforcement may result in license removal when deemed necessary. In the 12 months to 2023 alone, over 16,000 licenses were revoked due to just two of the identified conditions.
Over 8,000 Licenses Revoked Each for Dementia and Alcoholism
According to DVLA records, more than 8,000 driving licenses were revoked due to dementia, and a similar number were revoked due to alcoholism. Both conditions are associated with serious impairments to judgment, memory, and motor coordination. These figures reflect just part of a broader list of eight medical issues that most commonly result in license revocation.
The full list includes:
- Dementia
- Alcoholism
- Double vision
- Epilepsy
- Vascular disease
- Cataracts
- Seizures
- Sleep apnoea
All of these conditions either affect a driver’s vision, their ability to remain conscious, or their capacity to respond quickly and rationally in traffic. The DVLA stresses that while many of these illnesses develop gradually, their impact behind the wheel can be sudden and devastating. Particularly in cases like seizures or severe sleep apnoea, drivers may lose control without warning.
The data was first published by Birmingham Mail, which also highlighted how many of these issues — especially dementia and vascular disease — are becoming more common with the UK’s aging population.
Elderly Drivers Under New Scrutiny Amid Safety Concerns
The UK government is currently exploring mandatory eyesight testing for drivers over 70, citing growing safety concerns around pensioners behind the wheel. While most elderly drivers continue to operate safely, there are fears that some are not fully aware of gradual declines in eyesight, reaction time, or cognitive function.
This proposed measure aims to close a growing safety gap, particularly for those suffering from untreated cataracts or progressive vision loss. Double vision and cataracts in particular are known to reduce depth perception, night vision, and the ability to react to sudden obstacles — all of which can increase crash risks significantly.
Aging is also linked to a higher incidence of conditions like dementia and vascular disease, which are already among the most common causes of license cancellations. As a result, road safety advocates are urging for more comprehensive testing and regular medical checks for drivers above retirement age.
Failing to Report Health Issues Could Lead to Fines After Accidents
DVLA policy currently relies heavily on self-reporting, meaning drivers must inform the agency if they develop a health condition that could impact their ability to drive. While general practitioners may also notify the agency in serious cases, the responsibility ultimately lies with the individual.
Drivers who fail to disclose a medical condition and are later involved in a road accident could face significant fines, legal liability, and even criminal charges. The DVLA warns that ignoring health warnings not only puts the driver at risk but endangers all other road users as well.
Even conditions like sleep apnoea, which can cause daytime fatigue and drowsiness, are being scrutinized more seriously. Microsleeps while driving have been linked to fatal accidents, especially on motorways or long rural routes. When paired with other age-related issues like declining vision or memory loss, the risk profile becomes even more concerning.
