Drivers with high blood pressure could face a £1,000 fine if they fail to notify the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about their condition, the agency has warned. High blood pressure affects around 16 million adults in the UK, roughly one in three people, but most drivers with the condition do not need to inform the DVLA.
The DVLA states that car and motorcycle drivers generally do not need to report high blood pressure. However, they must stop driving if a doctor diagnoses malignant hypertension—a sudden rise in blood pressure to 180/120 or higher. Driving can resume only when a doctor confirms the condition is well controlled.
Failure to notify the DVLA of a relevant medical condition can result in a fine of up to £1,000. If a driver is involved in an accident and it is discovered they concealed a disqualifying condition, they may also face criminal prosecution. The same rules apply to bus, coach, and lorry drivers.
Low blood pressure (90/60 or lower) does not need to be reported unless it causes symptoms like dizziness or fainting. The DVLA maintains a full A-Z list of medical conditions that must be disclosed, and drivers are advised to check if their condition affects driving safety.
