The DVLA is experiencing an increase in both the volume and complexity of driving licence applications from people with medical conditions, according to Simon Lightwood, Under-Secretary of State for Transport. In 2024/25, the DVLA made more than 830,000 medical licensing decisions, and forecasts show that more than 925,000 medical applications and notifications will be received in 2025/26. To address the delays, the DVLA is updating its online service, launching a new casework system, and recruiting additional staff to handle medical applications and telephone calls.
A new digital medical services platform was launched at the end of March, Lightwood said. Medical driving licences need to be renewed every one, two, three or five years, and common notifiable conditions include diabetes, syncope, heart conditions, sleep apnoea, epilepsy, strokes, and glaucoma. Lightwood apologized to those unable to drive due to delayed decisions, acknowledging that services have fallen below expectations.