Drivers Could Save 10 Days By Reporting Medical Conditions To DVLA Online

Drivers who need to tell the DVLA about a medical condition could now receive a decision up to 10 days sooner by using the agency's online service rather than applying by post.

The DVLA has expanded its digital medical service to cover a wider range of conditions, allowing car and motorcycle licence holders to check whether they need to report a condition and complete the notification process online.

More than 60,000 drivers have already used the service, which provides an alternative to completing and sending paper forms. Drivers can check how around 1,600 medical conditions could affect their ability to drive through GOV.UK and notify the DVLA if necessary. The online service is available around the clock and guides drivers through the application process, allowing them to monitor the progress of their application, providing greater visibility while they wait for a decision.

The DVLA says some applications can be processed up to 10 days faster online than through the post. In some cases, the agency can also take the first step on an application, such as referring a driver to a healthcare professional, within 24 hours.

The changes mean more drivers can now manage medical-related licence requirements digitally. Drivers with multiple medical conditions can renew their driving licence online, while those with medical licences can also renew their photograph during the same transaction.

Further changes are expected later this year, with online medical notifications due to become available as part of additional DVLA services. These will include licence renewals for drivers aged 70, first-time provisional licence applications and cases where a previous licence has been surrendered or revoked.

Roads Minister Justin Madders said, “Drivers need to be able to report medical conditions quickly and easily. I understand their frustration and that’s why I’ve been working closely with the DVLA to push forward improvements to the services drivers receive.

This quick, easy-to-use online service is making it easier for drivers to report their medical conditions, making our roads safer for everyone that uses them. This new initiative will save people time and money so they can keep their licences up to date, and it’s already working for thousands of customers using the service.”

Tim Moss CBE, DVLA Chief Executive, added, “More than 60,000 drivers have already switched to our online medical service, saving time, avoiding paperwork and benefiting from a faster application process.

Customers can save up to 10 days by applying online rather than by post. As well as making applications quicker and easier, drivers using the service have collectively avoided tens of thousands of pounds in postage costs.

With 24/7 access and the ability to track progress online, we’re making it simpler than ever for people to manage their driving licence in a way that works for them.”

Drivers can use the service to report multiple medical conditions, avoid paper forms and postage costs, track applications and, where applicable, renew both their medical driving licence and licence photograph online.