MENTAL AND

PHYSICAL
EFFECTS ON
DRIVING
DRIVER EDUCATION PROGRAM
 Driving and mental illness
You must tell the Drivers and Vehicle Licensing
Agency (DVLA) if you have certain mental
illnesses. Or if your medication affects your
driving.
-Having a mental illness does not always mean you cannot drive safely.
But some drivers need to take extra care or may become too unwell to drive.
-If you have certain illnesses you must tell the DVLA.
-The DVLA will use the information you give them to decide if you should keep your licence.
-Sometimes they can give you a licence that is valid for 1 to 5 years.
-Sometimes they will take your licence away (‘revoke’ it). You can appeal.
-If your doctor says you are not fit to drive, you can give up your licence. This is also known as
‘surrendering’ your licence. You can reapply for it when your condition has improved.
 Medical Restrictions 

Medical Affairs, which reviews license applications listing physical or

mental conditions that may affect a driver's abilities, may issue driving
restrictions related to your current medical condition. For example, if
you pass the driver's license vision test by wearing glasses or contact
lenses, your driver's license will be issued with a "Corrective Lenses"
restriction (code letter B) and you must wear your corrective lenses
when you drive. If you need a mechanical aid or prosthetic device
(adaptive equipment) to operate a motor vehicle, Medical Affairs will
issue your license with restriction(s). It considers license applications
on a case-by-case basis, and you may be required to provide a
physician's letter for medical clearances or special driving-related
equipment. 
 Effects of Driving While Stressed,
Angry or Tired
Whether you’re calm, nervous or hot-tempered, your personality
affects the way you drive. Don’t let your emotions dictate the
way you drive.
Mental/Physical: Try to avoid driving when upset or excited. It dramatically
decreases your alertness and judgment. When driving, always try to remain calm
and relaxed. Do not however, use drugs or alcohol to relax. Also, try to avoid
stressful situations. If you cannot, pull over where safe and calm down. Also, avoid
driving when sick because you may not be able to react as quickly.
 • Take deep breaths
Tips to • Adjust position
Reduce • Listen to music

Stress Leave extra space

•
• Allow extra time
Driving • Pull over
Related videos:

It Starts with You: Zero Tolerance for Distracted Driving:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hxt9SUHQnQA&amp=&list=PL7NMu_pYAFykB
ffbzovyTy8_tNrXm-mNV&amp=&index=7&amp=&t=11s