Motorists with medical conditions across the UK can now benefit from new DVLA measures to deal with their driving licences.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has confirmed that motorists can now visit GOV.UK to check how 1,600 medical conditions could impact their ability behind the wheel.
Drivers will now be able to check how medical conditions could affect them and, where required, notify the DVLA online that they have a condition.
So far, more than 60,000 drivers have made use of the DVLA’s enhanced online medical service as an alternative to paper applications.
The DVLA reported that it had seen “exceptionally high” demand for applications from drivers with medical conditions recently.
When using online services, drivers can have their applications processed up to 10 days faster, compared with paper applications.
The agency noted that it can take the first action on an application within 24 hours, which can include referring the case to a healthcare professional.
Motorists are able to use the GOV.UK online service 24 hours a day, seven days a week, giving greater visibility and convenience.
The DVLA has provided an update to the medical licence online options
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GETTY/DVLA
Roads Minister Justin Madders acknowledged the need for motorists to be able to report their medical conditions quickly and easily.
He added: “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.
“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.”
Drivers must report notable medical conditions to the DVLA | PA
Millions more drivers can now benefit from the DVLA’s digital services, with a 50 per cent rise in digital uptake seen over the last year.
Motorists with multiple medical conditions are now able to renew their driving licence online for the first time.
Medical licence holders can also renew their driving licence photo at the same time, allowing them to keep paperwork to a minimum and removing the need for separate transactions.
The DVLA plans to make further changes to its digital services in the near future for online medical notifications.
The DVLA plans to make further changes to its online services in the near future
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GOV.UK
This is expected to include drivers renewing their licence at 70, first-time provisional licence applications, and licences that were previously surrendered or revoked.
Tim Moss CBE, chief executive of the DVLA, highlighted how tens of thousands of motorists had already used the online service.
He continued, saying: “Customers can save up to 10 days by applying online rather than by post. As well as making applications quicker and easier, drivers using the service have collectively avoided tens of thousands of pounds in postage costs.
“With 24/7 access and the ability to track progress online, we’re making it simpler than ever for people to manage their driving licence in a way that works for them.”