I have been diagnosed with dementia

A diagnosis of dementia is not in itself a reason to stop driving. One in three people with dementia still drives. The most important thing is whether you can still drive safely. Dementia may affect your ability to do this.

Driving may feel easy and natural for people who drive often or have been driving for many years. However, it is a complex task that involves quick thinking as well as sensory (vision, hearing) and manual skills.

UK law on driving and dementia is clear. A driver who is diagnosed with dementia must tell the DVLA straightaway to avoid being fined up to £1,000.

You can also get in touch by post, or on the phone.

Drivers’ medical enquiries
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1TU

0300 790 6806 (8am–5.30pm Monday–Friday, 8am–1pm Saturday)

Once you have contacted the DVLA they will then send you a questionnaire and a request to get medical reports from your doctor.

After you return it, the DVLA will speak to your doctor and medical advisers at the DVLA will decide if you can keep driving. You may be asked to take an on road driving assessment before a decision is made.

If DVLA decides that a person with dementia can keep driving, they will send you a new driving licence, usually valid for one year.

Drivers with dementia must also tell their car insurance provider straightaway. If they don’t, their policy may not be valid.

You can find out more about this in the Alzheimer’s Society booklet, Living with dementia

In Bucks, you can contact the Dementia Support Service at Alzheimer’s Society (0333 150 3456) and a Dementia Adviser will support you regarding the steps you need to take.