If I'm an ex Epilepsy sufferer will I have to declare it on my driver's license in So

corona7w

I had seizures as a kid (a few severe tonic clinics at about one). I'm in year 12 and hoping to go for my learner's soon but a teacher asked me (out of interesting) if I'd have to declare it on my license despite being seizure free (at least tonic clinic ones, not sure about things like absences). Would I or do I have to get re-tested so I can say for sure I don't still have it?

Sandi · 11-11-2008, 12:15 AM

Ask your GP for clearance .
Better still, any epilepsy specialist that you have.
Get a medical opinion first before getting behind the wheel.
It may be better to have it on your license in case you have an accident.
The Ambros can check it and know the possible cause straight away.
Just remember it is not only your life and that of your passengers, but also strangers with families of their own that are affected if you crash.
Saying that, good luck! But please get medical advice first

Jan K · 11-13-2008, 12:15 AM

Don't know about S.A., but here in Tas. one of the questions you will be asked is have you ever suffered from epilepsy? - then it will go on to ask if you have had a seizure within the last ( ) years - the time frame varies - Naturally your answer will be 'yes' and the answer to the relevant part b varies according to the time frame given. Transport then weighs the answer and decides whether or not they require a Doctors certificate and future review for your license - the best you can do is be honest and answer the application as honestly as possible, ask the Officer if you are unsure. If they discover you have been dishonest in the original instance then you have a whole other set of problems to deal with - you have signed a false declaration.

Carol H · 11-17-2008, 12:15 AM

Yes you'll have to declare it. They will probably require a GP to say you are safe to drive. My husband had one tiny seizure when he was 6 years old Nada they kept making him have it checked every year until he was about 30 or so.

Axel M · 11-22-2008, 12:15 AM

This is the wording from the South Australian Government's Driver's Handbook:

"Diabetes, epilepsy, psychiatric illness, severe coronary or
cardiovascular disease, it may be necessary to have a Medical
Certificate completed by a Medical Practitioner, or in some
circumstances, a specialist report may be required."

So you will have to declare that it was once a problem and get clearance from a GP.