Losing Your License Due to Health Problems: What You Need to Know

Getting the bad news that your driver’s license is being suspended or revoked because of health problems can be a real shocker. Believe me, I get it. Your ability to drive is so tied up with your independence and mobility. But try not to panic. Let’s walk through what’s happening here, and what your options are.

First up: Why is this happening? Well, driving laws vary a bit state to state, but in general the DMV needs to make sure all drivers meet “minimum medical standards” to operate a vehicle safely. So if they get evidence you might have a health condition that could impair your driving, they can require you to be examined by a medical specialist or suspend your license until you get evaluated.

This usually happens if info comes from your doctor, like if you have seizures, dementia, sleep disorders, vision or hearing loss, or other conditions that could make driving risky. The DMV might also require an exam if they get reports from police or citizens that your driving seems impaired.

I know, it feels super invasive to have your health status under this kind of scrutiny. For real, it’s your private medical info! But the argument is it’s about public safety on the roads. And honestly, if you do have a serious condition impacting your reflexes or awareness, it could be dangerous to you and others if you drive unchecked. Still, it feels like an invasion of privacy. I get it.

Okay, so what kinds of health conditions can lead to losing your license? Most common are:

• Neurological issues like epilepsy, seizures, dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc. Basically anything that could cause blackouts, confusion, or slow reaction times.
• Vision problems like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, etc. The DMV wants to check you still have adequate vision for driving.
• Sleep disorders like sleep apnea, narcolepsy, etc. Excessive daytime sleepiness or falling asleep at the wheel is a big red flag.
• Diabetes, if it’s leading to complications like eye issues or hypoglycemic episodes. Gotta make sure your blood sugar is stable enough for driving.
• Cardiovascular disease, if it causes symptoms like fainting or makes you tire easily. Don’t want heart problems causing accidents.
• Mental health issues like schizophrenia, bipolar, PTSD, or anything that could cause hallucinations, delusions, dissociation, etc while driving.
• Substance abuse problems with alcohol or drugs. Addiction impairs judgement and reflexes.
• Severe injuries, especially head trauma that impacts cognition and awareness.
• Medications that cause drowsiness as a side effect. Can’t have you dozing off on the road.

And sometimes it’s not about a specific diagnosis, but the DMV gets reports that your driving seems impaired, like weaving between lanes, delayed responses, or getting lost and confused. Then they’ll want a medical exam to check what’s up.

If your license does get suspended for medical reasons, here’s what you need to know:

• You’ll get a letter explaining why your license was suspended and the requirements to reinstate it. Read this carefully!
• The letter will tell you what type of medical exam you need to get recertified to drive. This could be an eye exam, sleep study, neuropsychological testing, drug screening, etc.
• You’ll need to schedule the exam, get the results proving you meet medical standards, and submit them to the DMV. The doctor might also need to fill out DMV forms.
• If you pass the exam and get medical clearance, then your license suspension will end. But if not, it could be extended until your condition improves.
• Request a hearing if you disagree with the suspension. You can present evidence and testimony that you’re fit to drive.
• Consider a restricted license if your doctor will certify you’re able to drive under certain conditions, like only daytime, short distances, no freeway driving, etc. It’s better than nothing.
• Be aware your car insurance rates will likely go up significantly, as you’re now seen as a higher risk driver. Shop around for the best deal.
• If your license is suspended indefinitely, look into alternative transportation options in your area, like paratransit, ride share services, public transit, community shuttle buses, etc. Ask friends or relatives for help getting around also.
• Address the underlying issue. Seek treatment for any medical condition impacting your fitness to drive. This will help get your license back.
• Stay positive! With the right treatment and adaptation, this doesn’t have to mean the end of your independence. There are still ways to get around and enjoy life.

Having your license taken away is a major bummer, no doubt. But it’s not necessarily permanent. Take the right steps to get medically recertified, consider transportation alternatives, and focus on managing your health. This bump in the road doesn’t need to derail your whole life. You’ve got this! Wishing you all the best.