Dementia is a progressive condition that primarily affects memory but can also impact other cognitive skills essential for safe driving, including attention, concentration, judgement, decision-making, problem-solving, multitasking, and reaction times. Driving relies on the ability to carry out these skills quickly, safely, and consistently.
In the early or mild stages of dementia, many clients may still be able to drive safely, as driving is a well-learnt skill. However, as the condition progressively affects cognitive abilities over time, it becomes important to recognise when it may be necessary to stop driving for safety reasons.
Clients can help maintain their driving skills by driving regularly, varying familiar routes, and actively engaging in decision-making while on the road. Observing road signs, maintaining appropriate space for other road users, and not overly relying on passengers for directions can all contribute to safe driving.
As dementia progresses, changes in driving styles may become apparent to family members, friends, or neighbours. These changes may include driving more slowly or faster than usual, altering road position, hesitancy at junctions, forgetting routes, or an increase in vehicle damage. Given that these changes can be challenging for the individual to recognise, it is often necessary to seek professional support to evaluate driving capabilities and provide guidance on subsequent steps.
Your legal requirements
If you are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or any other form of dementia, you are legally required to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in England, Scotland, and Wales, or the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland.
This does not automatically mean you must stop driving. The DVLA/DVA will consider your medical information and may:
- Contact your doctor for further details
- Arrange a health check
- Ask you to take a driving assessment
You will subsequently receive a letter detailing the outcome, which may include:
- Renewal of your driving licence
- Issue of a shorter licence (valid for one, two, three, or five years)
- A requirement to adapt your vehicle (more common with physical disabilities)
- A decision that you must stop driving and surrender your licence
If you continue driving after being advised to stop, you could face a fine or prosecution.
It is also a legal requirement to inform your insurance company of a dementia diagnosis. Failure to do so will make your insurance invalid.
How to contact the DVLA (England, Scotland, Wales)
- Phone: 0300 790 6806
- Online: DVLA medical conditions service
- Post: Drivers’ Medical Enquiries, DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1TU
How to contact the DVA (Northern Ireland)
- Phone: 0300 200 7861
- Email: dva@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk
- Post: Drivers Medical Section, DVA, Castlerock Road, Waterside, Coleraine, BT51 3TB (include both parts of your licence and a covering letter)
If the DVLA or DVA is not notified, a GP may disclose relevant medical information directly. This is permitted in law but is best avoided by ensuring you notify the authority yourself.
If the licensing agency is uncertain about your ability to drive safely, you may be asked to take a driving assessment through our network of independent mobility centres.
If the DVLA or DVA has suggested that your vehicle be fitted with appropriate adaptations, we highly recommend undertaking a driving assessment. Our expert clinicians and approved driving instructors will be able to make independent recommendations and give you the chance to try adaptations in a safe environment.
A driving assessment is different from a driving test. It is designed to review your driving, and you will be given an honest opinion of your skills and ability. Find out more about our driving assessments.
Retiring from Driving Safely
For some clients, dementia or other age-related conditions may mean it becomes necessary to retire from driving. Planning for driving retirement is an important step to ensure ongoing safety and independence. Driving Mobility’s network of independent mobility centres offers tailored support for clients through this process, including:
- Confirming safe driving ability
- Offering refresher training or skill updates
- Providing guidance on retiring from driving when appropriate
- Advising on practical alternatives to maintain access to the local community
Every client’s situation is different, and the point at which driving should stop varies individually. Families and healthcare professionals can play a valuable role in supporting clients to make informed decisions.
How to Access Support
Clients can self-refer to a local centre, or referrals can be made through healthcare professionals, the DVLA, or Motability. Assessments are carried out by clinicians and Approved Driving Instructors, encompassing both on-road and off-road evaluations. Additionally, cognitive assessments may be included where applicable.
For further information or to make a referral, please visit our Find a Centre page.
Our centres are here to provide guidance, reassurance, and practical support to help clients continue to live safely and independently while making informed decisions about driving.