More than 60,000 drivers have already availed of the new service
The DVLA needs to be made aware if you have certain medical conditions.(Image: Getty Images)
Drivers across the UK can now report a wider array of health conditions online under major updates rolled out by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
The expanded digital service allows car and motorcycle drivers to check how a certain medical condition may affect their driving ability and, where necessary, notify the agency if they fall under that category.
The DVLA says the shift away from paper applications can speed up decisions by up to 10 days, helping motorists resolve licensing queries significantly faster.
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For many applicants, the agency can now initiate necessary next steps – such as referring a case to a healthcare professional – within 24 hours.
Drivers managing multiple health conditions can also now renew their licence online for the first time, as well as update their licence photo. By opting for digital applications, motorists collectively save tens of thousands of pounds in postal fees while benefiting from 24/7 access and real-time application tracking.
The agency reported exceptionally high demand for medical applications, with over 60,000 drivers having already used the enhanced online portal.
Roads Minister Justin Madders welcomed the service expansion. “Drivers need to be able to report medical conditions quickly and easily,” he said. “I understand their frustration and that’s why I’ve been working closely with the DVLA to push forward improvements to the services drivers receive.
“This quick, easy-to-use online service is making it easier for drivers to report their medical conditions, making our roads safer for everyone that uses them,” the Labour MP for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough added. “This new initiative will save people time and money so they can keep their licences up to date, and it’s already working for thousands of customers using the service.”
Heart conditions, strokes and glaucoma are among the conditions that must be reported to the DVLA.(Image: Yui Mok/PA Wire)
DVLA Chief Executive Tim Moss CBE also praised the advancement, highlighting that digital uptake for the service has grown by nearly 50% over the last year.
“As well as making applications quicker and easier, drivers using the service have collectively avoided tens of thousands of pounds in postage costs,” he said.
Further updates planned for later this year will extend the digital medical notification system to drivers over 70 renewing their licences, first-time provisional applicants, and those reapplying after a surrender or revocation.
Motorists are reminded that failing to notify the DVLA of a medical condition that affects driving safety can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and prosecution in the event of an accident.
Drivers can check whether a condition needs to be reported by visiting the GOV.UK website.