The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) holds nearly 53 million driver records and more than 47 million vehicle records. It has issued guidance for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
According to GOV.UK, drivers "must tell DVLA" if their ADHD or ADHD medication affects their ability to drive safely. Not everyone needs to inform: "If your driving is not affected by your ADHD or ADHD medication, you do not need to tell DVLA. Ask your doctor if you're unsure."
NHS England data as of February 2026 estimates that 2,498,000 people in England have the condition, including those not yet diagnosed.
Fine and prosecution risk
Motorists who fail to notify the DVLA when required could face a hefty fine. The organisation warns: "You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about ADHD that affects your ability to drive safely. You may be prosecuted if you're involved in an accident as a result."
Learning to drive with ADHD
For learner drivers, DVLA guidance states: "You do not usually need to tell DVLA about your condition if you're learning to drive. Your driving test will assess your ability to drive safely." However, you should tell DVLA if your doctor has told you that your ADHD or medication affects your ability to drive safely.
Full licence holders
If you already hold a full car or motorcycle licence, you must tell DVLA if there is a change to your condition that may make you an unsafe driver. This also applies to those with a full bus, coach, or lorry licence.
Reporting other medical conditions
You must tell DVLA about any medical condition that may affect your ability to drive safely. Failure to report can result in a fine of up to £1,000. You can voluntarily surrender your licence if, for example, your doctor tells you to stop driving for three months or more, your condition affects safe driving for three months or more, or you do not meet the required standards. If you do not surrender voluntarily, you must inform DVLA, which will decide whether you can keep your licence. Car and motorcycle licence holders can check online if they need to report their condition.
