Letting the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency know about a dementia diagnosis

If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s really important to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Dementia can affect someone’s ability to drive safely, and the law says you must let the DVLA know about any medical condition that might impact driving.

Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Talk to the doctor

The first step is to speak with your loved one’s doctor. They will discuss whether it’s safe for them to keep driving. The doctor might suggest they stop driving or recommend reporting the condition to the DVLA for further checks.

Step 2: Contact the DVLA

To let the DVLA know about the dementia diagnosis, visit the DVLA website and fill out the "CG1" form. This can be sent back to the DVLA by email or post. The contact details are on the form.
You can find the form here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cg1-online-confidential-medical-information

If you need the form in a different format, you can email the DVLA to request this. Just let them know what format you need and any assistive technology you use. Email: alternative.format@dvla.gov.uk

Step 3: What happens next?

Once the DVLA knows about the diagnosis, they may:

• Ask the doctor for more information.

• Request a driving assessment to see if it’s safe for your loved one to continue driving.

• Issue a short-term driving licence (usually for 1 year) so they can regularly check on the condition.

If they can still drive

If the DVLA decides your loved one is safe to drive, they might need regular check-ups to make sure it stays that way.

If they can’t drive

If it’s decided they can no longer drive, the DVLA will ask them to surrender their licence. This can be tough, but it’s important for their safety and for others on the road.

Alternatives to driving

If your loved one needs to stop driving, there are plenty of ways to help them stay independent. Public transport, community transport services, and even arranging lifts with family and friends can help them stay mobile.

Why Is This Important? 

Telling the DVLA isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s also about keeping your loved one and others safe on the road. If you’re unsure about the process, don’t hesitate to ask for advice.

Source: DVLA