Epilepsy and Driving

Driving is a privilege that provides independence and convenience in our daily lives. But epilepsy can complicate a person’s ability to drive. Driving restrictions are often put in place for those with epilepsy.^1,2

These restrictions can be frustrating for a number of reasons. They can make it hard to find and keep a job, take children to and from school and activities, accomplish everyday tasks, and so much more.^1-3

It is possible to be able to drive if you are someone living with epilepsy. But it does require extra planning and responsibility. People with epilepsy must:^1,3

• Meet certain medical fitness guidelines
• Follow state regulations
• Consider the risks of being behind the wheel

What is the risk of driving with epilepsy?

The overall risk of a traffic accident by someone with epilepsy is relatively low compared to the general population. A 2023 study found that epilepsy accounts for just 0.1 to 1 percent of traffic accidents each year. That is lower than accidents related to alcohol misuse, which account for 7 percent.³

But still, epilepsy can impair your awareness, vision, and motor control. And if a seizure occurs while driving, it can lead to serious accidents.^1,3

Meeting medical fitness guidelines

Before driving, people with epilepsy must prove that their seizures are under control. This often means being seizure-free for a period of time, which can vary. A doctor’s approval is typically required to confirm that it is safe for a person to drive. This may include information like:^1,3

• The date of your last seizure
• The type of seizures you have
• Frequency of seizures
• How you are treating your epilepsy (antiseizure drugs, devices, etc.)
• How well you are responding to treatment

This information is then reviewed by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and a decision is made on whether to issue you a license. Some states have certain restrictions in place that may apply to you. Restrictions like driving:^1,3

• Only during daytime
• Only to and from work
• Only during an emergency

State regulations for epilepsy and driving

In the United States, each state has its own laws about epilepsy and driving. Some states require a person to be seizure-free for 3 months. Others may require 6 months or longer. Certain states allow exceptions if seizures occur only during sleep or do not involve a loss of consciousness.^1-3

Some states require doctors to report epilepsy diagnoses to the DMV. These states are:^1,3

• California
• Delaware
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania

Other states rely on you to report your condition. If you have epilepsy, you should know your state’s driving rules and follow them closely to ensure your safety and the safety of others.^1,3

Tips for reducing risks and staying safe

To reduce risks, people with epilepsy should do the following:^1,3

• Avoid known seizure triggers, such as stress or lack of sleep.
• Take medicines as prescribed by your doctor.
• Use public transportation or ride-sharing services if seizures are not controlled.
• Carry a medical ID that states you have epilepsy. This can help first responders provide the right care in an emergency.
• Get regular medical check-ups as part of maintaining a driving license.
• If you have any increase or changes to seizures, do not drive. Talk with your doctor. They will need to reevaluate you.

If you or someone you know has epilepsy and wants to drive, check with your doctor. They can guide you through the process and help you stay safe while behind the wheel.^1,3