Following stroke the DVLA state that you should not drive for one month.
Following this you may resume driving if a doctor feels that your clinical recovery is satisfactory.
You must inform your insurance of your stroke or TIA before you get back to driving. This applies even if you are fully “back to normal”.
There is no need to notify the DVLA unless there is residual neurological deficit one month after the episode. In particular these neurological deficits include visual field and cognitive deficits and impaired limb function. The DVLA will require notification if you have not fully recovered after one month but want to resume driving and if there is a restriction to certain types of vehicle where adapted controls are required.
A driver who experiences multiple TIAs over a short space of time may require three month period freedom of further attacks before resuming driving and should notify the DVLA.
Even if the doctor, the DLVA and the insurance have passed you as fit for driving it is your individual responsibility to ensure that you are fit to drive. If you feel tired, unwell, if your can’t concentrate or get confused, or if your eyesight is not adequate you should not drive. Sometimes your health and fitness can change from day to day, and it is your responsibility to decide if you are fit to drive every time you get into the car.
DLVA Guidance on Driving after stroke or TIA
Exceptional circumstances for driving with a fully compensated static visual field defect (pdf download).
Derby Regional Driving Assessment Centre Any NHS health professional can refer directly to our service using our simple 2 page referral form. Email us at dhft.driving@nhs.net if you don’t have a form at hand. Clients can self-refer for a fee of £60.
Cannock, Wolverhampton, and Shrewsbury Regional Driving Assessment Centres help disabled people of all ages and the elderly maintain their independent mobility safely. The centres have a fleet of adapted vehicles permanently available which can cater for a wide range of mobility needs. Services include driving ability assessment, advice on adaptations and passenger/Carer Assessment (Referral form).