Epilepsy and lorry driving

[muffinthemule]

Can anyone help on this – is it possible to sit the lorry test and drive a 7.5tonne lorry if you have epilepsy? The DVLA guidelines aren’t very clear (or maybe I'm just simple!). Are there any additional rules/regulations? Any experiences would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

 

[MontyandZoom]

I haven't taken my HGV license but I do drive a car and have epilepsy. I'm not sure if the rules are different, but presumably you should be fine to drive the lorry provided that you have not had any fits for over 12 months and that your doctor has certified that your condition is stable.

I have epilepsy but I no longer take drugs. I have a shorter license than normal but I just have to send a letter from my doctor to say that my condition has not changed to renew my license. It is a pain in the arse since the DVLA are very disorganised!

 

[Slinkyunicorn]

Do you see an Epilepsy Nurse or still go for regular checks? I would check with them or the Epilepsy Charity - I can't remember its name of the top of my head - but I would imagine it is the same as for cars. No seizures in the last 12 months and you may need and extra check from your doctor.

 

[hmk101]

For driving a HGV, you need need to have been free from fits and seizures for ten years or more to be classed as fit to drive. You also need to have not taken any anti-epileptic drugs in the last ten years, and have passed a full DVLA medical.


If you satisfy these guidelines, you can apply for a HGV driving licence, provided that you already have a full UK or EU car driving licence. It is a criminal offence to not declare a medical condition that can make you unfit to drive, and the DVLA often look unfavourably on drivers who fail to declare medical conditions. They can also impose a fine of up to £1000. For epilepsy, the relevant form is the EP1 form, which can be downloaded from the directgov website.