Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and vocational driving

Group 2 entitlement:

• angina
  • Must notify the DVLA.
  • Must not drive when symptoms occur.
  • A licence will be refused or revoked if symptoms continue (treated or untreated).
  • May be relicensed/licensed (provided there is no other disqualifying condition) if:
    • no angina for at least 6 weeks
    • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met
      
      
• acute coronary syndrome
  • defined as:
    • 1. Unstable angina (symptoms at rest with ECG changes)
    • 2. Non STEMI (non ST elevation myocardial infarction) with at least two of the following criteria
      • symptoms at rest
      • raised serum Troponin
      • ECG changes
    • 3. STEMI (ST elevation myocardial infarction) symptoms with ST elevation on ECG
  • Must not drive and must notify the DVLA - for all ACS.
  • Licence will be refused or revoked.
  • May be relicensed/licensed after at least 6 weeks if:
    • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met
    • LV ejection fraction is at least 40%
    • there is no other disqualifying condition
      
      
• elective percutaneous coronary intervention (angioplasty +/- stent)
  • Must not drive and must notify the DVLA
  • Licence will be refused or revoked.
  • May be relicensed/licensed after at least 6 weeks if:
    • LV ejection fraction is at least 40%
    • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met
    • there is no other disqualifying condition
      
      
• CABG
  • Must not drive and must notify the DVLA
  • Licence will be refused or revoked
  • May be relicensed/licensed after 3 months if:
    • LV ejection fraction is at least 40%
    • the requirements for exercise or other functional tests can be met, at least 3 months postoperatively
    • there is no other disqualifying condition

Please consult the Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Agency for most up-to-date advice.

Reference:

1. Gov.UK. Assessing fitness to drive: a guide for medical professionals. Published March 2016, last updated November 2025. (online)