Autism and driving

Some autistic people may find the skill of driving extremely difficult, while others will be highly competent. If being autistic, or any medication you are on, affects your ability to drive safely, you must tell the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA).

Learning to drive

When learning to drive, you may want to advise your driving instructor that you are autistic and discuss any issues, such as sensory differences that may impact your ability to learn.

Useful tips for you and your driving instructor are available at:

Driving – a guide for autistic adults in Northern Ireland

Why you must tell the DVA about a medical condition

It is an offence if you do not tell the DVA about a medical condition that may impact your ability to drive and is punishable, on conviction, of a fine of up to £1,000.

It is also an offence to drive after making a false declaration about your health to the DVA and is punishable, on conviction, of a fine of up to £2,500.

If you are applying for your provisional driving licence

You do not need to tell DVA about your condition unless you think that it may affect your ability to drive safely.

Ask your doctor if you are not sure if your condition will affect your driving.

If you are applying for a first provisional driving licence online, and tell us that you have Autism, you may be asked some additional questions about your condition.

Car or motorcycle licence

If you already have a car or motorcycle licence you need to tell DVA if:

there is a change to your condition that may make you an unsafe driver
you are prescribed medication that causes side effects that will affect your driving

Fill in form A1 ODL and send it to DVA. The address is on the form.

Lorry or bus licence

If you already have a lorry or bus you need to tell DVA if:

there is a change to your condition that may make you an unsafe driver
you are prescribed medication that causes side effects that will affect your driving

Fill in form A1 VOC and send it to DVA. The address is on the form.

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