Drivers with high blood pressure could face a £1,000 fine if they fail to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about their condition. The common health issue affects approximately 16 million adults in the UK, yet many may not realise the serious financial and legal consequences of withholding this information.
DVLA Rules on High Blood Pressure
For most drivers, having high blood pressure does not affect their ability to drive safely. However, the DVLA has strict regulations regarding certain health conditions that could impair driving. If a driver is involved in an accident and it is discovered that they concealed a disqualifying medical condition, they could face criminal prosecution in addition to a fine.
The DVLA website states: "You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving. You may be prosecuted if you’re involved in an accident as a result."
When Must You Inform the DVLA?
Car and motorcycle drivers generally do not need to notify the DVLA about high blood pressure unless a doctor diagnoses malignant hypertension—a sudden and severe rise in blood pressure. The threshold for malignant hypertension is a reading of 180/120 mmHg or higher, compared to a healthy reading of 120/80 mmHg.
If diagnosed with malignant hypertension, drivers must stop driving immediately. They can resume driving only when a doctor confirms that their condition is well controlled.
For bus, coach, or lorry drivers, the same rules apply. They must cease driving if diagnosed with malignant hypertension and can return to driving only after medical approval.
Low Blood Pressure and Other Conditions
Drivers with low blood pressure (consistent readings of 90/60 or lower) do not need to inform the DVLA. However, any health condition that causes dizziness or fainting must be reported. The DVLA provides a full A-Z list of medical conditions that may require notification.
