1. Community
  2. Symptoms
  3. Sleep Problems

Just got a CPAP machine - when can I drive again?

Posted , 2 users are following.

JoanneP
JoanneP

I've had my CPAP for two nights now and getting on famously with it. When can I apply for my driving licence back? Now, or do I have to wait until I see the consultant in 6-8 weeks time?

1 like, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Kath_Hope
    Kath_Hope

    Posted

    I actually joined this forum tonight to answer your question for you, as I know what it's like to be off the road when diagnosed with sleep apnoea. I've been a sufferer for many years, and in actual fact was unable to drive for about 9 months, but that's because the whole system from diagnosis to treatment took a lot longer then.

    You will be able to drive once your sleep clinicians verify you are on successful CPAP therapy and no longer feeling daytime tiredness, and it sounds like this is the case for you, so I would suggest you ring the sleep clinic after about a week of good therapy to ask if they can help with this, rather than having to wait 6-8 weeks. Meanwhile if you go to this link https://www.gov.uk/obstructive-sleep-apnoea-and-driving you can download the SL1 form and read the information on that page too.

    Good luck!

  • JoanneP
    JoanneP

    Posted

    Thanks - that's very helpful. I have telephoned the DVLA Medical Unit and they are sending out forms for me to complete and post to the hospital so hopefully I won't need to wait for my follow-up appointment after all!
  • Kath_Hope
    Kath_Hope

    Posted

    You're very welcome Joanne and glad I spotted your post. Good old google eh, as I was on another search at the time? :D
Back to top

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.