Disclaimer 

This webpage offers general guidance on driving post-stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). For personalised advice regarding your stroke and any health concerns affecting driving, always consult your doctor. If a healthcare provider has advised against driving, please refrain from doing so, irrespective of the information presented here.

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Can you drive after a stroke?

After being diagnosed with a stroke or TIA specific guidelines must be followed:

  • Car and motorbike drivers must refrain from driving for at least one calendar month. If issues persist after this period, driving should not resume, and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) should be informed. A medical fitness to drive assessment is then recommended
  • In the case of a TIA, driving is prohibited for one month without the need to inform the DVLA. If multiple TIAs occur, a one-month driving break is required after each episode
  • Bus and lorry drivers are required to stop driving for at least one year after a stroke or single/multiple TIA diagnosis and must notify the DVLA. After this period, the decision to resume driving depends on the individual's circumstances. Re-licensing may be considered subject to a satisfactory medical report, including medical test results. 

The most common difficulties which affect driving ability are: 

  • Upper and lower limb weakness
  • Coordination difficulties
  • Sensory changes
  • Visual loss (any visual field defect must be notified to the DVLA)
  • Memory and thinking (planning and risk awareness)
  • Fatigue.

Some people will be able to drive after the minimum period, but others will have to stop for longer. Some people will have to stop driving for good.

Driving After a Stroke or TIA - Legal Responsibilities and Required Notifications

Healthcare professionals involved in your treatment, such as Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, and your GP, can help you to determine when it is appropriate for you to resume driving, considering any challenges you may face, the type of stroke you had, and other medical factors.

The resources listed in the 'Support in Your Area' section below can provide guidance on driving assessments and suggest adaptations that could be beneficial based on the impact of your stroke. It is recommended to schedule an updated eye test after a stroke, as this will be required for a driving assessment referral. For more details on eye tests, visit our vision page.

Who will tell me if I should stop driving for longer?

This depends on several things including:

  • The type of stroke
  • The effects of your stroke
  • Other medical conditions you may have.

If you suspect that your driving abilities may have been impacted by a stroke, seeking assistance from a driving assessment centre can provide personalised guidance. They can assess your situation, advise you on whether you should notify the DVLA help arrange a driving assessment, and offer support for your return to driving. Locate your nearest centre by visiting Driving Mobility.

Always keep in mind that it is your responsibility to ensure you are safe to drive.

You must tell your motor insurance company if you have had a stroke or TIA. Information on who else needs to be informed can be found in the earlier section titled "Can you drive after a stroke or TIA." If required, you can inform the DVLA online. 

Failure to inform the DVLA about a medical condition impacting your driving could lead to a fine of up to £1,000. In the event of an accident, you may face prosecution and receive a criminal conviction. Neglecting to disclose a stroke to your motor insurance provider could render your insurance void. Driving without insurance can result in fines and / or loss of your licence.

  • The DVLA - The DVLA oversees driver licensing in England, Scotland, and Wales and has authority over licensing decisions. While GPs and other medical professionals can provide guidance on how a stroke may impact driving, they do not have the authority to grant permission to drive. For further details on how strokes can influence driving, visit the Stroke Association website.
  • The Stroke Association offer other helpful advice, including driving after a stroke and starting to drive again after a stroke. You can also read about alternative options alternative options if you can’t drive after a stroke. This includes information on public transport and coping with everyday life without being able to drive.
  • Government Services - You might be eligible for The Blue Badge Scheme. If you qualify the badge would allow you to park in more convenient spaces in car parks and on the street. You can also use your blue badge when you're a passenger, meaning you don't need to be the one driving.
  • Different Strokes have a driving after stroke blog post providing insight from people who have experience of what it is like returning to drive after stroke.
  • Citizens Advice can help you find out if you're eligible for help with the cost of transport if you're disabled, for example free bus passes and railcards, and how to apply. For more information on financial support, see Benefits and Money page.

Occasionally, some people may choose to drive after experiencing a stroke, despite it being illegal. This behaviour can arise from various factors, such as changes in their mindset or denial regarding the impact of the stroke on their driving abilities. As a result, they may find themselves operating a vehicle in unsafe and unlawful conditions.

If you have already tried to speak to them about it and they keep driving, then you can:

  • Speak to their GP or stroke team
  • Report the person’s driving to the DVLA.

It may be challenging to report someone close to you but doing so could potentially save their life and safeguard other road users.

If you're currently receiving care from your local community stroke team, feel free to inquire about this subject at your next appointment.

  • The Motability Scheme enables people with disabilities to hire cars, powered wheelchairs, or scooters.
     
  • The William Merritt Centre provides unbiased advice and evaluations for individuals of all ages who are living with a disability or long-term condition. Their goal is to support greater independence and fulfilment, offering services such as driver assessments, driving lessons, vehicle adaptations, and car access evaluations for both passengers and drivers. They cover the whole of Yorkshire and are accredited members of Driving Mobility.

    Referrals for services can be submitted by filling out an online referral form. You have the option to refer yourself, or your healthcare professional can complete it on your behalf. Please be aware: Driver and Car Access Assessments are complimentary if referred by a GP or NHS professional. If referred by someone else, there will be a fee for the assessment and any driving lessons.
     
  • Transport for Older People offers a concessionary fares scheme that may enable you to obtain a disabled persons pass, enabling free off-peak bus travel and half-price off-peak train travel across West Yorkshire. Find out if you are eligible for the concessionary fares scheme.
     
  • Access Bus offers door-to-door transportation services for individuals who are unable to use regular bus services. Find out more about the Access Bus.
     
  • Hubs Mobility Advice Service provides free, unbiased guidance on accessible travel alternatives. Find more information and contact details for your area.