Regardless of what causes a lapse of consciousness (LOC) disorder, it can affect one’s ability to operate a vehicle or vessel. If you lose consciousness for a short period of time, you can also lose control of your vehicle, which can result in serious accidents or death.
Some medical conditions can cause LOC disorders. These disorders cause you to lose consciousness or awareness for a period of time. Epilepsy is the most common LOC disorder, and it can occur at any age. Seizures can occur outside of epilepsy, caused by anything that impairs normal brain function, such as trauma, tumors, infections, genetics, stroke, injury, metabolic imbalances (such as diabetic comas), and more. Sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, can also cause a loss of awareness or consciousness.
Can I get a driver license (DL) if I have an LOC disorder?
It depends. When DMV receives a report of a driver with an LOC disorder, DMV must evaluate the driver. After the evaluation, DMV will decide how to act.
DMV guidelines describe different situations in which the following actions should be taken after evaluating a driver with an LOC disorder:
- No action
- Medical Probation
- Suspension
- Revocation
Depending on the facts, circumstances, severity, and type of condition, the hearing officer may impose conditions of probation, rather than a suspension or revocation of the driving privilege.
Probation may include:
- Completing a Driver Medical Evaluation (DS 326) (PDF) or other form and submit it to DMV.
- Appear for a Reexamination with a Hearing Officer.
- Reporting changes in health.
- Limiting driving by time or location.
DMV has the authority under California Vehicle Code (CVC) §14251 to terminate or modify the conditions of probation whenever good cause exists. If it appears that a driver’s lapse of consciousness disorder has become unstable or it is suspected that the information reported is fraudulent, the driver will be requested to have their physician complete a Driver Medical Evaluation (DS 326) (PDF). If necessary, a reexamination will be scheduled or an immediate suspension of the driving privilege imposed.
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American Epilepsy Society (AES)
AES offers a community of professionals dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of epilepsy.
Epilepsy Foundation
The Epilepsy Foundation is with you on your journey with epilepsy and seizures.
American Academy of Neurology (AAN)
From education, research, policies, and non-profit recommendations, the AAN has a wealth of resources on consciousness disorders.