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DementiaNet

Time to read:

2 minutes

Posted on:

September 25th, 2024

Last reviewed:

January 3rd, 2025

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Contacting the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency about your diagnosis

If you’ve been diagnosed with dementia, it’s important to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Dementia can affect your ability to drive safely, and the law requires that you notify the DVLA about any medical condition that could impact your driving.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Tell your doctor first: your doctor will discuss whether it’s safe for you to continue driving. They may advise you to stop driving or suggest that you report your condition to the DVLA for further assessment.

  2. Contact the DVLA: you can inform the DVLA about your dementia diagnosis by visiting the DVLA website and completing the “CG1” form. You can return it by email or in the post, the contact details are at the end of the form. You can find more information and the form here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cg1-online-confidential-medical-information

If you need an accessible version of the form, you can email the DVLA, specifying the format you need and the assistive technology you use. Email: alternative.format@dvla.gov.uk

  1. DVLA assessment: once the DVLA knows about your diagnosis, they may:

    • Request further information from your doctor.

    • Ask you to take a driving assessment to check if it’s safe for you to continue driving.

    • Issue a shorter driving licence (often 1 year), so they can review your condition regularly.

  2. What happens next?

    • If the DVLA decides you’re safe to drive, you may need regular check-ups to monitor your condition.

    • If they decide it’s not safe for you to drive, they will ask you to surrender your licence. This can be difficult, but it’s important for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

  3. Help with alternatives: if you need to stop driving, there are many transport options available to help you stay independent, like public transport or community transport services.

Remember, informing the DVLA is not only a legal requirement but also a step towards ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Sources: GOV.UK, DVLA

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