cardiac disease and vocational driving

Last edited 06/2019

Group 2 entitlement:

  • angina
    • Must notify the DVLA.
    • Must not drive when symptoms occur.
    • A licence will be refused or revoked if symptoms continue (treated or untreated).
    • May be relicensed/licensed (provided there is no other disqualifying condition) if:
      • no angina for at least 6 weeks
      • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met

  • acute coronary syndrome
    • defined as:
      • 1. Unstable angina (symptoms at rest with ECG changes)
      • 2. Non STEMI (non ST elevation myocardial infarction) with at least two of the following criteria
        • symptoms at rest
        • raised serum Troponin
        • ECG changes
      • 3. STEMI (ST elevation myocardial infarction) symptoms with ST elevation on ECG
    • Must not drive and must notify the DVLA - for all ACS.
    • Licence will be refused or revoked.
    • May be relicensed/licensed after at least 6 weeks if:
      • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met
      • LV ejection fraction is at least 40%
      • there is no other disqualifying condition

  • elective percutaneous coronary intervention (angioplasty +/- stent)
    • Must not drive and must notify the DVLA
    • Licence will be refused or revoked.
    • May be relicensed/licensed after at least 6 weeks if:
      • LV ejection fraction is at least 40%
      • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met
      • there is no other disqualifying condition

  • CABG
    • Must not drive and must notify the DVLA
    • Licence will be refused or revoked
    • May be relicensed/licensed after 3 months if:
      • LV ejection fraction is at least 40%
      • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met, at least 3 months postoperatively
      • there is no other disqualifying condition

Please consult the Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Agency for most up-to-date advice.

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