Sleep apnoea is a condition that affects breathing during sleep, leading to interrupted sleep. Around 17.8% of people in the UK in the age group of 40-64 have obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), but many of them remain undiagnosed. For drivers, this condition raises significant concerns about safety and legal driving requirements. In the UK, specific guidelines set by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) help to address these concerns. This blog will explain sleep apnoea, how it impacts driving, and the regulations for those diagnosed with this condition.
What is sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops while a person is sleeping. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively during sleep which blocks the airways. This can lead to symptoms including disrupted sleep, daytime tiredness, irritability, and impaired concentration. People with OSA may also experience loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and frequent awakenings throughout the night. If left untreated, sleep apnoea can contribute to more serious health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
Driving while suffering from sleep apnoea can be dangerous. People with this condition often experience daytime sleepiness, which can significantly impair reaction times, concentration, and the ability to stay alert behind the wheel. Untreated sleep apnoea increases the risk of road traffic accidents. The risk is similar to that of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
DVLA guidelines about sleep apnoea
The DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) has clear guidelines regarding sleep apnoea and driving in the UK. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnoea, it is crucial to understand your legal obligations as well as the impact of your condition on your ability to drive safely.
Self-reporting to the DVLA
Excessive sleepiness refers to having trouble staying awake or focused, which can lead to unintentional sleepiness during activities like work, watching TV, or driving. It’s important to notify the DVLA if you have:
- Diagnosed moderate or severe obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) accompanied by excessive sleepiness
- Narcolepsy, cataplexy, or both
- Any sleep disorder that causes prolonged excessive sleepiness for at least 3 months, including confirmed or suspected mild OSAS
You must avoid driving until your sleepiness is under control or you receive appropriate treatment addressing your symptoms. Failure to report it could result in a fine of up to £1,000. You may also face legal consequences if you’re involved in an accident due to your condition. If you’re unsure whether your sleepiness could impact your driving, it’s best to consult your doctor for guidance.
When can you start driving again?
If your sleep apnoea is well-managed, the DVLA may allow you to continue driving. However, it is important to ensure that your treatment is effective and you are not experiencing significant sleepiness or fatigue. In some cases, you may be required to provide medical evidence or undergo a medical examination to confirm that you are fit to drive.
If your driving licence is revoked or your application is denied, the DVLA will send you a letter outlining the decision. This letter will also specify the waiting period before you can reapply. You are allowed to submit a new application 8 weeks before the end of this waiting period.
NHS advice for drivers with sleep apnoea
The NHS emphasises the importance of treating sleep apnoea and managing symptoms to ensure that drivers remain fit to drive. Effective treatment, such as CPAP therapy, can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce daytime sleepiness, making driving safer. However, the NHS advises that you should not drive until symptoms like extreme tiredness are under control.
How does the DVLA assess your fitness to drive?
When the DVLA is notified of a medical condition, such as sleep apnoea, it follows a two-stage process to assess whether an individual is fit to drive. Initially, they will seek information about the condition directly from the driver or licence applicant, often through a paper questionnaire or online form. In some cases, the DVLA will also request medical records or additional details from healthcare professionals to understand the severity and management of the condition.
For sleep apnoea, the DVLA may ask for specific medical documentation or details about the treatment the driver is undergoing. This ensures that the condition is properly managed and that the driver is not at risk of excessive daytime sleepiness, which could impair their ability to drive safely. In some situations, the DVLA may require an independent review by one of their appointed doctors or even a driving assessment, depending on the circumstances.
Driving while undergoing medical review
While medical enquiries are ongoing, drivers may be allowed to continue driving under certain conditions, as per Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act 1988. However, this is only applicable if the licence holder’s last licence was not revoked due to a medical issue or if they are not considered a high-risk case. It’s important to note that during this time, the driver is responsible for ensuring that they are fit to drive. If a driver ignores medical advice and continues driving, it could affect their insurance coverage.
Once the DVLA has all the relevant medical information, it will make a decision on whether the driver meets the national medical standards. If the driver is found fit to drive, the licence will be issued or restored. However, if the medical information suggests that the driver is not safe to drive, their licence may be revoked or denied.
How to manage sleep apnoea for safer driving
To ensure that you are fit to drive with sleep apnoea, it is essential to:
- Seek medical advice: If you suspect you have sleep apnoea, consult your GP or a specialist for proper diagnosis and management.
- Adhere to treatment: If prescribed CPAP or other therapies, use them consistently and as directed.
- Monitor symptoms: Track any changes in your symptoms, particularly daytime sleepiness, and report any concerns to your doctor.
- Notify the DVLA: Always inform the DVLA about your condition, especially if you are undergoing treatment or experiencing symptoms that could affect your driving.
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnoea, regular follow-up appointments with your doctor are essential. These visits allow your doctor to monitor your treatment plan’s effectiveness and make adjustments if necessary. Regular check-ups also help ensure that your sleep apnoea is under control and that you are fit to drive. Keep a log of your symptoms and any changes you notice so that you can share this information with your healthcare provider.
If you have sleep apnoea, your ability to drive safely depends on how well the condition is managed. The DVLA guidelines are designed to ensure that individuals with sleep apnoea do not put themselves or others at risk. If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnoea, it is vital to seek treatment and adhere to the necessary medical advice. By doing so, you can protect both your health and your driving privileges.
If you’re experiencing sleep or breathing issues, it’s essential to consult with the appropriate medical professional. As a specialist in sleep and respiratory disorders, I offer consultations for diagnosis and treatment of various conditions, including sleep apnoea. If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to contact us for guidance and support.
