Driving

Can I drive?
That's the big question and it's a big deal to most teenagers.

The hard truth is, if you're still having seizures, no, you can't drive a car. Each state has its own rules affecting people with epilepsy. It's important to contact the motor vehicle department in your state for more information about state regulations.

However, if you're taking medications and you haven't been having seizures, chances are you can get a driver's license. Again, contact your state's motor vehicle department for rules on how long you have to be seizure free before you can drive. These vary between three months to a year.

I've had epilepsy since I was little and now I'm 19 and want to get my driver's license but my doctor says I have to wait until I'm seizure free, but I have seizures every once in a while and they seem to just come at night when I first go to sleep. What should i do?
You can search for the most current information on your state's seizure-free period requirements and drivers licensing laws. If your seizure activity occurs only while you're going to sleep and/or while you are asleep, your state may be one of the ones that will make allowances for seizures that are proven to be nocturnal only.

I've had a couple of seizures recently but don't want to tell my doctor because I'm afraid I'll lose my driver's license.
Part of being old enough to drive is being responsible enough to drive. The risks of driving while your seizures aren't controlled are obvious. Think about it – if you have a seizure at the wheel you could end up having a car accident and hurting or killing yourself or even hurting or killing someone else.

So, talk to your doctor and work on getting your seizures under control so that in a few months to a year, you can get your license back. Yes, it's inconvenient to lose your driver's license. You'll have to rely on family and friends to give you rides or you'll have to use public transportation (if available in your area) for a while. But, it's well worth the hassle.

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