DVLA guidance driving with depression
Depression is a mental health condition that can affect various aspects of a person’s life, including their ability to drive safely. It’s important to prioritize your safety and the safety of others when considering whether or not to drive while experiencing depression. Here are a few points to consider:
- Medical Advice: Consult with your healthcare provider or mental health professional regarding your specific situation. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on your symptoms, severity of depression, and overall mental well-being.
- Medications: If you are taking medications to manage your depression, be aware of any potential side effects that may impact your driving ability. Some medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or other impairments that could affect your concentration and reaction times.
- Self-Awareness: Assess your own emotional and mental state before getting behind the wheel. If you are feeling particularly low, lacking concentration, or experiencing other symptoms that may impair your driving, it may be best to avoid driving until you are in a better condition.
- DVLA Reporting: In some cases, you may be required to inform the DVLA about your depression. The DVLA has specific guidelines and criteria for various medical conditions that may affect driving, including mental health conditions. They will assess each case individually and provide guidance on whether any restrictions or further action is necessary.
Mild Depression Or Anxiety
Mild depression or anxiety is where there are No significant memory or concentration problems. Where your behaviour is not disturbed and you do not have suicidal thoughts. In this situation:
- Cars – You can Drive and Not Notify the DVLA
- HGV or Taxi- You can drive and Not Notify the DVLA
Severe Depression or Anxiety
This is where there are significant memory or concentration problems. Your behaviour will be very disturbed and you my have suicidal thoughts. In this situation:
- Cars – You Cant Drive for at least 3 months and Must Notify the DVLA
- HGV or Taxi- You cant drive for atleast 6 months and must Notify the DVLA.
- Relicensing depends on you being stable, adhering to treatment and having no side effects from treatment.
DriverDoctors
Here at DriverDoctors all our Doctors are experienced in Driver Medicals including HGV Medicals, D4 medicals and Taxi Medicals. Book in Confidence and ensure your driving safely.
Book Your Medical HERE.
If the above has affected you personall remember to get help, one way is to call the Samaritans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get a D4 Medical form from?
Please download from the DVLA Website. Furthermore also from our website during your application.
Where can I get a Taxi Medical form?
Please download Your Taxi Form from the Internet and also you can also Directly ask your council.
Do I need my medical history from my GP?
For a HGV/D4 form your form can be completed without a medical summary.
Then For different councils, different rules apply. Some councils require no medical history, some require a summary and some require full medical records.
Please consult with your council before booking your medical.
Will The Doctor Need to see my ID?
Yes, your doctor will need to see photographic ID moreover to prove who you are. Furthermore Taxi councils specify which I.D they accept.
How long is my D4 Medical form valid for after my medical?
The form must reach the DVLA within 4 months of the assessment.
Yes you can fail and also you will be told if you have and the steps you need to take so you can rectify the situation.
Can I wear glasses/contact lenses?
You can wear glasses or contact lenses to pass your medical. Furthermore If you wear contacts you may be asked to remove them, so bring a spare pair. You must also bring your prescription with you if you wear glasses.
How can I obtain my medical records?
You can request your GP records from your own practice by asking the reception staff. They may charge you for this. Also You must check with your council before booking if you require any records, a summary or full records.
Furthermore This must be done or you medical may not be able to be completed.
Please call or email us if you require a medical to be cancelled, also please note we this must be done within 72 hours of your appointment otherwise we will not be able to issue a refund.
All forms are completed by doctors therefore you can be assured by our service.
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