Living with Liver Disease (Driving)
Alcohol, Liver Disease and driving
If you have a liver condition that affects your ability to drive safely, you must report it to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). Failing to do so can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and prosecution if you are involved in an accident.
When You Must Report to the DVLA
You are required to notify the DVLA if:
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Your doctor tells you to stop driving for 3 months or more.
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Your medical condition affects your driving and lasts for 3 months or more.
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You do not meet the required medical standards for driving.
While liver cirrhosis alone may not always be notifiable, complications like Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE)—which can cause confusion, poor coordination, and impaired concentration—must be reported.
How to Report Your Condition
The process depends on your licence type:
- Car or Motorcycle Licence Holders: You can check if your condition is listed and report it through the official GOV.UK service.
- Bus, Coach, or Lorry Licence Holders: You cannot report online. You must check the A to Z list of conditions and download the specific medical form or questionnaire required for your condition.
Voluntary Surrender
If your doctor advises that you are currently unsafe to drive, you can voluntarily surrender your licence to the DVLA. This often makes it easier to get your licence back later once your doctor confirms you are fit to drive again.
DVLA Medical Enquiries Contact Details
If you are unsure whether your specific liver condition needs reporting, you can contact the DVLA's medical division:
- Phone: 0300 790 6806 (Monday to Friday, 8am–7pm; Saturday, 8am–2pm)
- Address: Drivers' Medical Enquiries, DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1TU
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