Blackouts, fainting (syncope), loss of consciousness and driving

Patient Information

Due to the nature of your blackout, collapse or syncope, you have been advised today by the doctor in clinic not to drive. This is based on DVLA guidelines.

You must tell the DVLA of your blackout/syncope and you cannot drive until you are given permission to do so by the DVLA.

Informing the DVLA

To inform the DVLA of your medical condition, you will need to complete and return Form FEP1if you drive a coach, bus or lorry. Forms are available at Post Offices or can be downloaded online at https://www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla.

After you have informed the DVLA, they will then usually contact your doctor or consultant for more information.

The DVLA will consider whether your condition could cause a sudden blackout/syncope at the wheel. You may have to give up your licence for a specific length of time but very few people have to give up driving altogether. Your doctor will discuss this more with you in clinic but the decision with regards to returning to driving will be made by the DVLA.

Please note

You have a legal responsibility to tell the DVLA about a medical condition that could affect your driving. You should also inform your vehicle insurance company as failure to do so may make you insurance invalid.

DVLA contact details:

Tel: 0300 790 6806 - Monday to Friday 8am to 5.30pm, Saturday 8am to 1pm

Email: Via the website https://www.gov.uk/contact-the-dvla

Post: Drivers' Medical Enquiries, DVLA, Swansea SA99 1TU

"Information given on this site is not meant to take the place of a talk with your doctor or health worker."