What has changed
DVLA announced on 17 August 2026 that more drivers can report medical conditions online instead of filling in paper forms. The service guides you through each step and lets you track progress. Drivers with more than one condition can now also renew their licence online, and can update their licence photo at the same time.
Do you need to tell DVLA?
By law you must tell DVLA about a medical condition that could affect your driving. GOV.UK lists around 1,600 conditions with guidance on each one, including diabetes treated with insulin, epilepsy, some heart conditions, sleep apnoea and some eye conditions. If you do not, you can be fined up to £1,000, and you may be prosecuted if you are in a crash.
Check your condition on GOV.UK before applying. Some only need reporting if they affect how you drive.
What comes next
DVLA plans to extend online medical applications this year to licence renewals at age 70, first-time provisional licence applications, and drivers whose licence was previously surrendered or revoked.
Keep your licence in order
While you are dealing with DVLA, it is worth checking your own record. Our guide explains how to see your licence details and penalty points and how to get a share code for an employer or hire company.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Drivers can save up to 10 days by notifying DVLA of a medical condition online
- GOV.UK: Health conditions and driving
Facts checked against the sources above on 20 October 2026. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
