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Driving while waiting for DVLA medical decisions (Section 88)

Posted
Updated
Written BySari Khaled

You may be allowed to continue driving while the DVLA is processing your licence renewal or medical review under Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act, but only if you meet all of the required conditions.

Section 88 permission applies to eligibility, not convenience. You cannot drive simply because you have applied; you must still be medically fit to do so.

You can normally continue driving under Section 88 if:

All of the following apply:

  • you have submitted a valid licence application or renewal
  • your previous licence was valid at the time you applied
  • you meet the DVLA medical standards for your licence group
  • your doctor has not advised you to stop driving
  • you are not disqualified or suspended
  • your licence has not been revoked or refused

If these conditions are met, most Group 2 drivers can drive while waiting for a decision.

You must NOT drive if:

Any of the following applies:

  • you have been told by your GP or consultant to stop driving
  • you no longer meet Group 2 medical standards
  • your licence has been refused or revoked
  • the DVLA has formally instructed you not to drive
  • you are awaiting investigation for a condition that may affect consciousness, awareness, or sudden incapacity

Driving against medical or DVLA advice can result in:

  • licence revocation
  • insurance invalidation
  • potential legal consequences

Practical examples

Routine renewal under review

Application submitted before expiry.
Driver meets medical standards. No doctor restrictions.

Outcome:
✔ Can normally drive under Section 88 while waiting.

Sleep apnoea under treatment review

DVLA requests CPAP compliance report.
Symptoms controlled and treatment established.

Outcome:
✔ Can usually continue driving unless advised otherwise.

Recent blackout under investigation

Neurology review pending. Cause not yet confirmed.

Outcome:
✘ Must not drive until medically cleared.

Licence formally revoked

DVLA issues refusal or revocation notice.

Outcome:
✘ Section 88 does not apply — driving is not permitted.

Common misunderstandings

Many drivers assume:

  • “If I’ve applied for renewal, I can automatically keep driving.”
  • “Section 88 means I’m covered until DVLA replies.”
  • “If I feel fine, I don’t need medical clearance.”

In reality:

Section 88 applies only when all eligibility conditions are satisfied.

If in doubt, drivers should confirm their position with:

  • their GP or consultant, and/or
  • the DVLA medical licensing team

Key takeaway

Section 88 allows some drivers to continue driving while the DVLA processes a medical decision, but only if:

  • you applied before your licence expired
  • you still meet medical standards
  • your doctor has not advised you to stop
  • your licence has not been refused or revoked

When risk is uncertain, safety advice usually prevails.