Driver's Licenses & Seizure Disorders

The driver's license of an individual with a seizure disorder may be restricted or revoked due to concerns about safety---not just the individual's, but also those around him. Most countries have measures in place to allow people with epilepsy to drive when their seizures are well-controlled. What that means differs from country to country.

U.S. Regulations

• In the U.S., regulations vary from state to state. Many states require that individuals be seizure-free for one year prior to issuing a driver's license. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as in the case of a breakthrough seizure that is the result of a medication change.

In Canada

• In Canada, drivers whose seizures are controlled (either with medication or without) for a period of time (which varies from province to province) are eligible to drive. The seizure-free period varies from province to province, so you must contact your provincial Ministry of Transportation.

In the United Kingdom

• In the U.K., you can apply (or reapply) for most categories of driver's licenses if you have been seizure-free for one year, have had only sleep seizures for the past three years, and the driving agency believes you will not be a risk. Categories for driving buses or trucks require longer seizure-free periods, and also require that you have not taken anti-epileptic drugs during that period.

Seizure-Free Periods in Other Countries

• Several countries require a seizure-free period of between 12 and 24 months before someone is allowed to drive. Denmark, France, Australia and Norway are among the countries that require 24 months, and Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Switzerland require 12.

Licensing Prohibitions

• There are several countries that prohibit people from driving if they have ever had a seizure as an adult. These include China, India, Korea, Pakistan, Portugal, Singapore and Taiwan.