Motorists must tell DVLA if they’re on medication that affects their driving abilityJames D Roger, Tom Kershaw Content Editor, Sam Dimmer East Midlands Head of Brand and James Rodger
06:15, 16 Mar 2026
Drivers on certain medications could find themselves unable to drive(Image: Malorny via Getty Images)
The DVLA may stop drivers from operating vehicles if they are under the influence of certain common medications.
DVLA officials could advise motorists to “avoid driving” if they are taking these medications.
Greg Wilson, a motoring expert at Quotezone.co.uk, issued a warning: “If you are on strong medications, it is likely that you will be recommended to avoid driving.”
He pinpointed three types of medication as particularly risky: opioid painkillers, tranquillisers, and specific antidepressants.
He noted that these “are examples of medicines that can affect driving ability – as well as those that cause drowsiness or say ‘do not operate heavy machinery.”
Under DVLA regulations, you only need to inform the DVLA if your depression impacts your ability to drive safely.
Failure to disclose a medical condition that affects your driving could result in a fine of up to £1,000, according to the DVLA.
Furthermore, you could face prosecution if you’re involved in an accident as a consequence. If you’re uncertain whether your depression might affect your driving, it’s advisable to consult your doctor, reports Yorkshire Live.
The Labour Party government website stated: “It’s illegal in England, Scotland and Wales to drive with legal drugs in your body if it impairs your driving.”
According to DVLA regulations, licence holders must inform the DVLA if they develop a ‘notifiable’ medical condition or disability, or if an existing condition or disability has deteriorated since obtaining their licence.
Drivers are obliged to surrender their licence to the DVLA if their GP recommends they stop driving for three months or longer, their medical condition affects their ability to drive safely and continues for three months or more, or they no longer meet the required driving standards due to their medical condition.
The government website added: “Talk to your doctor about whether you should drive if you’ve been prescribed any of the following drugs.”
Furthermore, the RAC explained: “Failing to inform the DVLA of a medical condition and a prescription that can affect your driving can see you fined as much as £1,000.”