The medical information supplied by you or your doctor is used only by authorized personnel to determine driving privileges.
If you receive a request for a medical statement, you should mail the completed form to Driver and Vehicle Services, Driver Evaluation Unit, Suite 170, 445 Minnesota Street, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-5170.
Examples of Medical Conditions:
Diabetes
A driver who is insulin dependent is required to submit a doctor’s statement regarding his or her ability to drive safely. If your diabetes is controlled by oral medication this is not required.
Report the condition:
- Within 30 days after diagnosis
- Within 30 days of a driving-related episode where you experienced loss of consciousness or voluntary control while operating a motor vehicle
Loss of Consciousness or Voluntary Control
This is the loss of the ability to assume and retain an upright posture without support or the inability to respond rationally to external stimuli.
- You must report an episode in writing within 30 days of experiencing loss of consciousness or voluntary control
Vision
You are required to complete a vision screening at the time you apply for or renew an instruction permit or driver’s license. Your normal or corrected vision must be at least 20/40 and your peripheral vision must be at least 105 degrees.
If you do not meet the minimum standards, you will be asked to see an eye doctor and return a Vision Report (PS30338).
Other Factors
Other health problems that would affect driving ability are:
- Inability to tightly grip a steering wheel, reduced physical strength, inability to easily move foot from gas to brake pedal, inability to look over shoulder
- Reduced ability to react quickly and decisively to traffic conditions and confusion
- Lessened ability to focus on objects and shift focus quickly, lessened ability to focus on fine details, reduced peripheral vision, poor night vision, sensitivity to glare, weakened depth perception
- Medication side effects/drug interaction (including over the counter) that cause drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, muscle relaxation
If you are concerned about someone you feel may have a medical condition and should have their driving privileges removed, refer to the Report an At-Risk Driver Page.