DRIVING AND STRONG PAINKILLERS
Can I continue to drive whilst I am taking these medications?
It is an offence to drive with certain drugs above specified blood levels in the body. These drugs
include strong painkillers. The majority of patients that are fit to drive and are taking medicines as
directed are unlikely to be above the specified limits and therefore would not be committing an
offence.
Even if you are above the specified limits but your driving is not impaired and you are taking your
medicine in accordance with the advice of a healthcare professional you will also be within the law.
It remains an offence to drive while your ability is impaired by medicines or illness and, if in
doubt, you should not drive.
Here is a checklist:
 You should not drive for several days after starting or increasing the dose of your painkiller.
Sometimes longer is needed.

Make your first trip:
o Short
o On roads that you are familiar with.
o At a time when the traffic is not too busy.

You may find it helpful to have an experienced driver accompanying you to begin with in
case you find that you are unable to complete your journey.

You must not drive on days when you have needed to take extra doses of painkiller.

You must not drive if you feel sleepy, dizzy, unable to concentrate or make decisions, or if
you have blurred or double vision.
For more information go to www.gov.uk/drug-driving-law
Should I inform the Drivers Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that I have been prescribed
strong painkillers?
You do not need to inform the DVLA. However there may be other information about your illness
that the DVLA needs to know. Your doctor/nurse or the DVLA can advise you about this.
How to contact the DVLA Website:
Postal Address:
www.dvla.gov.uk
Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
Longview Road
Telephone number: 0870 600 0301.
Swansea
(You will need to give your driving licence number). SA99 8QD
Car Insurance
You may need to inform your motor insurance company about your current state of health and what
medication you are taking. Each insurance company is different. It is best to discuss your
circumstances with your insurance company to be sure that you are covered.
Further Advice
Your doctor or nurse will be happy to help you decide when it is safe to drive.
Date of Issue May 2016