Dear NP

Dear NP,

My teenager has a history of seizures and takes medication to control them. How will this affect his ability to drive?

Dear Reader,

There are many different types of seizures, and they affect people in various ways. Some seizures cause people to lose control of their bodies entirely. If this were to happen while driving, it could cause a loss of vehicle control and be very dangerous. Fortunately, not all seizures cause this degree of symptoms, and medical therapy can control or eliminate seizures.

Because there are so many different types of seizures and symptoms, each case is evaluated to determine its impact on the ability to drive safely. Sometimes seizures may have a warning or aura before they happen, which gives a driver enough time to get off the road before the seizure occurs. Other seizures only happen during sleep or are mild enough that driving is not impaired. Your healthcare provider can tell you what kind of seizures you have and if they will likely impact your ability to drive.

The rules regarding driving when you have a history of seizures are made by the Wyoming Department of Transportation, and they vary from state to state. You can check with Wyoming Department of Transportation website to find out if a medical evaluation is necessary. If you have ever had a seizure, driving will likely be restricted until you have a medical evaluation that indicates you can safely operate a motor vehicle. Once you’ve gone without having any seizures for the length of time specified, you may be allowed to drive again.

The length of time you’ll have to wait could be from a few months up to a year. The reason for waiting is to make sure that the seizures are controlled by medications or have resolved, and you’ll be safe to drive again. You may be required to have a letter from your healthcare provider that states your seizures are controlled. Other factors that will be considered when determining if driving is safe include what causes the seizures, the type of seizures, and how long you have been free of seizures that affect your awareness.

Getting your driver’s license as a teenager is an essential rite of passage. Hopefully, discussing your teen’s specific diagnoses and medications with your healthcare provider will clarify any risk that might be presented by driving. If your teenager has seizures that would make driving dangerous right now, that could change in the future. The longer he goes without having a seizure and the better control the medication gives, he may be able to drive safely. Help your teen understand that any restrictions are not only for his safety but also to keep everyone else on the road safe.

Dr. Wesley Davis is an Emergency Nurse Practitioner at Crook County Medical Services District and Coordinator of the Family and Emergency Nurse Practitioner program at the University of South Alabama. He encourages readers to send their questions to [email protected]