Narcolepsy

I have just been asked whether a Driving Instructor can continue to teach after being diagnosed with Narcolepsy.

The answer is that there are no extra medical requirements for driving instructors over those for ordinary drivers. With exception of a slightly increased distance on the number plate reading test.

So if DVLA are satisfied a driving instructor is medically fit to drive then they are ok to instruct. (providing they meet the eyesight test) A person can be fined up to £1,000 if they don’t tell DVLA about a medical condition.

A form SL1 should be used for reporting medical conditions such as narcolepsy, cataplexy, sleepiness and driving, sleep apnoea and obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome.

You can find further information from the DVLA here.

This information is taken from the Narcolepsy UK website

Many people with narcolepsy are able to drive. However, narcolepsy is a condition that may affect the ability to drive safely, and sufferers are permitted to drive only if DVLA is satisfied that the condition is controlled well enough that allowing a person to drive will not cause an unacceptable risk to them or to other people.

Consequently, if you drive and are diagnosed with narcolepsy, or if you are applying for your first driving licence, it is essential that you inform the DVLA of your condition, so that they can make the necessary investigations and can reach an informed decision on whether to permit you to drive.