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EpilepsyNew Zealand

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Traffic rules
New Zealand

207. Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can cause recurrent seizures, which may involve changes in awareness, movement, sensation or consciousness. Because a seizure can temporarily prevent a person from controlling a vehicle safely, epilepsy can affect driving fitness and driving-licence requirements. The rules vary between countries and usually depend on factors such as the type of seizure, how long the person has been seizure-free, treatment and medical assessment. Anyone who experiences a seizure should follow the applicable driving rules and seek medical advice before driving again.

Epilepsy
Anatomical diagram showing the principal fissures and lobes of the cerebrum.
Wikimedia.org • Henry Vandyke Carter • CC0
Can epilepsy affect your ability to drive?

Yes. A seizure can cause loss of awareness, consciousness or vehicle control, so epilepsy can affect whether a person is medically fit to drive.

Can a person with epilepsy have a driving licence?

In many countries, yes, provided specific medical and seizure-free requirements are met. The exact conditions depend on the country, licence category and individual medical situation.

What should you do after having a seizure?

Do not assume it is safe to continue driving. Seek medical advice and check the applicable driving-licence rules, because a temporary period without driving may be required.

Why is a seizure-free period required for driving?

A seizure-free period helps assess the risk of another seizure occurring while driving. The required period varies depending on the type and cause of the seizure and local regulations.

Can epilepsy medication affect driving?

Yes. Anti-seizure medicines can sometimes cause effects such as drowsiness, dizziness or reduced concentration. Changes in treatment can also affect seizure control, so medical advice should be followed.

Are driving rules stricter for professional drivers with epilepsy?

Usually, yes. Drivers of trucks, buses and vehicles used for certain professional transport generally face stricter medical fitness requirements because of the greater potential consequences of a seizure while driving.

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