Driving for Work: Mythbusters
52 common misconceptions – and the facts employers and drivers need to know
Myth 33: If a driver has a licence, they’re automatically fit to drive for work
Fitness to drive encompasses far more than licence entitlement. A driver must also be medically fit, adequately rested, free from the influence of alcohol or drugs and emotionally stable.
Drivers are legally responsible for informing DVLA if they have a driving licence and develop a ‘notifiable’ medical condition or disability, or have a condition or disability that has got worse since they got their licence.
A driver can be fined up to £1,000 for not telling DVLA about a condition that might affect their ability to drive safely. They could also be prosecuted if they have a collision.
A driver who passed a medical years ago may have developed a condition affecting fitness. A driver who is significantly fatigued or under the influence of medication may hold a full, clean licence. Employers must have systems that assess ongoing fitness to drive, not simply verify that a licence exists.
Driver takeaway:
A licence is the starting point for fitness to drive – not the whole picture.
If you are unwell, fatigued, on impairing medication, or emotionally distressed, you may not be fit to drive regardless of your licence status. Declare it.
Manager takeaway:
Implement ongoing fitness-to-drive processes that go beyond licence checks.
Regular self-declarations, occupational health referrals where appropriate, and a culture of openness about health and wellbeing are all part of managing fitness to drive effectively.
