Driving and Epilepsy
Can you drive an automobile if you have epilepsy? Yes, if your seizures are controlled with treatment, your physician approves you to drive and you meet the licensing requirements in your state.
When you apply for a license, some states may require that your doctor send a letter to the Department of Motor Vehicles stating that you are free of seizures and, in his or her opinion, can therefore drive safely if you meet your state’s other driving requirements.
Your child’s health is important. Get expert care.
To schedule an appointment with a UH Rainbow pediatric epileptologist, call 216-286-6644.
Driving is a privilege that carries a serious responsibility. You can help protect yourself and others as follows:
- If your doctor changes your medicine, don’t drive until you know how the change is going to affect you.
- If you have a seizure, don’t drive yourself to the doctor’s office afterward. If you need medical attention, call a friend or take other transportation.
- Don’t drive for six months after a seizure.
- Don’t drive if your seizure control isn’t good enough to get a license, or if you start having events again after getting a license. Insurance may not cover you in an accident if you are driving illegally when it happens.
Alternatives to driving oneself include: public transportation, car pools, taxis, and special programs offering transportation to people whose disabilities make it impossible to drive.
| State | Ohio |
|---|---|
| Seizure-Free Period | No set seizure-free period |
| Periodic Medical Updates Required After Licensing | Every six months or one year until seizure-free for five years |
| Doctors Required to Report Epilepsy | No |
| DMV Appeal of License Denial | Within 30 days |
Sources: Epilepsy Foundation of America, Epilepsy.com, Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance, National Safety Council, Journal of School Nursing, MedLine Plus and Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports.