Medical conditions and diseases that affect the driving licence

Before renewing your driving licence, many drivers wonder if any health condition may affect the outcome of the medical examination. The answer depends on the type and severity of each condition, and is regulated by the General Drivers’ Regulation (RD 818/2009) and its updates.

What does the DGT medical examination assess?

The medical examination for the driving licence evaluates fitness in the following areas:

• Vision: visual acuity, visual field, colour vision, contrast sensitivity
• Hearing: minimum required hearing ability
• Locomotor system: functional capacity of limbs
• Cardiovascular system: diseases that may cause sudden loss of consciousness
• Neurological system: epilepsy, syncope, other disorders
• Mental health: disorders that may affect road safety
• Diabetes and metabolism
• Consumption of alcohol, drugs or medications

Conditions that may limit driving

Vision problems

The DGT sets minimum visual acuity requirements:

• Group 1 licence (B, A): vision in both eyes or in the dominant eye with permitted correction
• Group 2 licence (C, D): stricter requirements than group 1

Wearing glasses or contact lenses does not prevent obtaining the licence, as long as the minimum requirements are met with them.

Epilepsy

A person with epilepsy can obtain or renew their licence if they have been crisis-free for a specified period under medical supervision. The required crisis-free period varies depending on the type of licence and the type of epilepsy. The medical professional at the assessment centre will evaluate the situation.

Diabetes

Diabetes does not prevent driving by itself. The assessment depends on the type of treatment (diet, oral antidiabetics or insulin) and glycaemic control. For group 2 licences (professional), the requirements are stricter.

Cardiovascular diseases

Certain heart conditions, arrhythmias, or a history of cardiovascular events may require an additional cardiological report or limit the type of licence. In general, the criterion is the stability of the condition and the absence of risk of sudden loss of consciousness.

Sleep disorders (apnoea)

Untreated severe sleep apnoea may be a cause for denial, as it increases the risk of drowsiness while driving. With CPAP treatment and documented control, it is usually possible to obtain the licence with time limitations.

Medication consumption

Some medications may affect driving ability. The medical professional at the assessment can evaluate the impact based on the type of drug and the dosage.

What happens if I have one of these conditions?

The doctor will evaluate your case individually. In many situations:

• The licence is granted with restrictions (mandatory use of glasses, more frequent check-ups, limitation of night-time driving, etc.)
• Additional documentation from your specialist doctor is requested
• A reduced validity licence is issued with mandatory periodic review

The outcome is not automatically negative in most cases.

Recommendations before the examination

• Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you usually wear them
• If you have an active medical condition, consult your doctor before attending
• Do not interrupt any treatment for the examination
• Bring your valid ID or NIE and your current licence if it is a renewal

Do you have questions about whether your condition affects the examination? You can consult us via WhatsApp before coming to the centre.