How do doctors decide if I am fit to drive?
Doctors use the following guidelines from the DVLA to help them assess whether someone is medically fit to drive.
DVLA Guidelines for assessing fitness to drive for medical professionals
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I go through security systems such as those found in airports?
Given the short duration of security screening, it is unlikely that your heart device will be affected by metal detectors (walk-through archways and hand-held wands) or full-body imaging scanners (also called millimetre wave scanners and 3D imaging scanners) such as those found in airports, large venues and courthouses.
The metal case of your heart device could set off a metal detector. To minimize the risk of temporary interference with your heart device while going through the security screening process, avoid touching metal surfaces around any screening equipment. Do not stop or linger in a walk-through archway; simply walk through the archway at a normal pace.
If a hand-held wand is used, ask the security operator not to hold it over your heart device and not to wave it back and forth over your heart device. You may also request a hand search as an alternative. If you have concerns about these security screening methods, show your device ID card, request an alternative screening, and then follow the instructions of the security personnel.
Category: Implantable DevicesWill I be able to resume sexual activity?
Intimacy is a normal part of life. We understand patients resume sexual activity when they feel comfortable. However, if you have a question, it may be helpful to have a conversation with your doctor.
If in doubt about an activity, always discuss it with your doctor or nurse.
What activities can I resume after getting an ICD?
Generally, your device will not keep you from most activities and hobbies (e.g., bowling, golfing, playing tennis, gardening, fishing, etc.).
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I go bicycling?
Yes, you can ride a bike with an ICD. However, if using a stationary exercise bike, keep the wheel magnet at least 6 inches away from your heart device. Also, be sure to check with your doctor in case there are any medical concerns.
Category: SportsIf I am in a swimming pool when I receive a shock, will others get shocked?
They may feel something if you are touching them when you receive a shock, just as they might if you were touching out of the water. They will not be affected differently because you are in a pool.
Category: SportsCan I continue to bench-press?
Remember to discuss exercise with your doctor and follow any recommendations based on your health needs.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I walk through the security screening equipment?
Always carry your heart device ID card. This card is helpful if your heart device sets off a metal detector or a security system.
Category: Implantable DevicesWhat can I do about my car seatbelt rubbing on my ICD?
Some people wrap a towel around the seat belt. You also may want to check out seat belt pads.
Check out our ICD Protection page for information on commercial products to protect your ICD
Category: Implantable DevicesDoes an abdominal implant prohibit contact sports, such as football?
Some physical activities may be restricted depending on your medical condition or concerns about physical stress on your ICD. Consult with your doctor about activities to avoid, if any.
Category: Implantable DevicesAre there any restrictions on travel to a foreign country?
Wherever you travel, your heart device monitors your heart and provides therapy whenever it is needed. You can travel knowing that support for your heart device is available around the world. Your doctor may also be able to check your heart device remotely, so it may be a good idea to let your doctor know when and where you will be traveling.
Category: Implantable DevicesWhat happens to my ICD if airbags go off in a car?
If your air bags go off while you are in a car, whether you have an ICD or not, seek immediate medical attention.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan my ICD be “dented” if it’s accidentally hit with an object?
While ICD components are protected in titanium cases, you should still avoid activities that may involve hard physical contact.
Category: Implantable DevicesWhile scuba diving, how many feet down can I go with my ICD?
Pressure ratings can vary among ICD models. Typical diving depths can range from 50 to 100 feet. Always check with your doctor about scuba diving restrictions.
Category: Implantable DevicesAre body scanners at the airport safe?
Full body imaging scanners (also called millimeter wave scanners and 3D imaging scanners) are used in airports, courthouses, prisons and other public facilities. Your ICD is not likely to be affected because the scanning takes only a short time.
Category: Implantable DevicesWill an aviation transponder receiver (ADS-B) affect my ICD?
Aviation transponder receivers are used to track the location of an aircraft. They are designed to receive signals only from aircraft transponders and pose no threat to your ICD.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I jump start a vehicle?
When jump starting an engine, maintain at least 24 inches between the jumper cables and your ICD.
Category: Implantable DevicesIs it safe to be around my electric vehicle when it’s charging?
For some electric vehicles, there may be safety precautions when charging the battery. For example, you may not be able to sit in the vehicle while it is charging. Check with the car’s manufacturer for guidelines.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I drive a Tesla or other electric car?
Yes, it is safe to drive an electric car if you have an ICD or other heart device.
Category: Implantable DevicesWill cosmic rays affect my ICD? I fly a lot!
Cosmic rays consist of high-energy radiation that strikes the earth from space. Most of these flares and rays are absorbed in the atmosphere and are unlikely to affect an ICD once they reach the ground.
Category: Implantable DevicesIs it ok to work on my car?
Yes. You can work on your car as long as there is no medical reason to avoid working around engines. You should, however, keep at least 12 inches between your ICD and parts of the car’s ignition system.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I work over a running car engine?
You should keep at least 12 inches between your ICD and parts of the car’s ignition system.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I use a heated car seat?
There are no risks from using a heated car seat because there is at least 6 inches between the seat’s electrical components and your ICD. So continue to enjoy this small luxury during the winter months.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I use a vibrator?
Using a vibrator poses no risks. Just make sure the vibrator is in good working condition and has no electrical problems.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I tour the Hoover Dam?
Hoover Dam policy recommends that people with implanted ICDs do not tour the dam because of its 60Hz magnetic field. The magnetic environment within other hydroelectric plants, however, may differ so check with them to see what their policies are for people with ICDs. Being around such strong magnetic fields may result in your ICD delivering an inappropriate shock. Tour a non-hydroelectric dam if you want to see how great quantities of water are held back through the marvels of human engineering.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I ride a motorcycle?
Riding a motorcycle is considered a low-risk activity and so it is usually permitted. However, this may vary depending on any medical conditions you have and your applicable driving laws, so do consult your doctor first.
Category: DrivingCan I drive a hybrid (or electric) car?
No inappropriate interactions between ICDs and hybrid vehicles have been reported, so it’s a low risk.
Category: DrivingI should still buckle up, right?
Yes, keep wearing your seatbelt. If it hurts or creates pressure near your device, just put some padding between you and the belt.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I go on a cruise ship?
Can I go skiing?
Skiing will not interfere with your device, but do speak with your doctor before you start schussing. While many patients go back to their favorite activities-after a full recovery, of course-there are activities that cause concern.
Category: SportsCan I ride a tram to the top of a mountain?
Yes. Riding on a train or tram poses a very low risk of interference with an ICD. However, we recommend talking to your cardiologist before your journey up the mountain, as there are lower oxygen levels at high altitudes.
Category: TravellingDo extreme temperatures affect my ICD?
No. Not only is your ICD built to withstand stress, but your body temperature stays fairly constant as well.
Category: Implantable DevicesHow deep can I scuba dive?
Exposure to pressures greater than 4 ATA is not recommended. That means diving no deeper than about 100 feet or 30 meters in seawater. Talk to your doctor about that and about any other concerns with scuba diving and your heart condition.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I box?
Boxing shouldn’t interfere with your ICD, although a blow to the device area could possibly dislodge one of the leads. (Just don’t fight anyone good.)
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I use an induction range top?
Induction cooktops are very haute in the world of cuisine, but they do pose a concern to ICDs. Instead of heating up themselves, they use magnetic energy to heat the pan, made of steel, aluminum or copper. Therein lies the rub. Because of the magnetic fields, make sure your device is at least 2 feet away from the cooktop.
Are electric dog fences dangerous?
Pet shock collars for electric pet fences, including remote controls and bases with antennas, should be kept six inches away from your heart device. Buried wires should be at least 12 inches from your ICD.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I go to the gym?
Yes. Remember to discuss exercise with your doctor, and follow their guidelines based on your own health needs. It’s always best to ease back into a fitness routine. Walk before you jog, jog before you run, etc…
Category: SportsCan I exercise?
Yes. Exercise is the best kind of work out. An ICD isn’t implanted to limit you – it’s to save your life.
Category: SportsCan I skydive?
Can I go swimming?
Definitely. An ICD isn’t an anchor, literally or metaphorically. Just remember that you may feel restricted when extending your arm for a few weeks after surgery. It is still a good idea to swim with a partner, if needed.
Category: SportsCan I go through airport security?
Always carry your heart device ID card. This card is helpful if your heart device sets off a metal detector or a security system.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I drive after getting an ICD?
The decision to drive after getting an ICD depends on your medical condition and the laws in your area. Your doctor will look at your electrophysiology (EP) tests, how you’re responding to the ICD and its therapies, and any other medications you take. The one exception that definitely requires a conversation with your doctor is being a commercial driver like a bus driver or truck driver.
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I play football?
Hut-hut-hike yourself to your heart’s content. Football probably won’t interfere with your ICD, and most people resume physical activities after recovering from surgery. The potential for tough contact is a concern to talk with your doctor about but can likely be avoided with your sweet moves!
Category: SportsIf I have an ICD can I have sex?
Intimacy is a normal part of life. We understand patients resume sexual activity when they feel comfortable. However, if you have a question, it may be helpful to have a conversation with your doctor.
If in doubt about an activity, always discuss it with your doctor or nurse.
Can I travel?
Wherever you travel, your heart device monitors your heart and provides therapy whenever it is needed. You can travel knowing that support for your heart device is available around the world. Your doctor may also be able to check your heart device remotely, so it may be a good idea to let your doctor know when and where you will be traveling.
Category: TravellingIs it safe to swim in a pool?
There are no restrictions for swimming in pools with your device and they are safe as long as there is no electrical current leakage into the water.
Category: SportsCan I play golf?
Can I ride roller coasters?
Do I have to stop driving if I have a cardiac arrest?
The simple answer is yes, but usually only temporarily.
The length of the period that you cannot drive for is mainly dependent on the cause of your cardiac arrest and the remedial action taken.
For example, if you had a heart attack as the cause and you had stents and medications to prevent future episodes then the period to stop driving would typically be 1 month.
If you had to have an ICD fitted then the period that you had to stop driving would typically be 6 months from the date of the implant – not the date of the cardiac arrest
Category: Implantable DevicesCan I drive without my physical licence?
It may be possible, it depends on whether you satisfy the criteria for Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act.
See “What is Section 88” for more information.
Category: DrivingHow can I view my licence information and status?
You can find information and the status of your driving licence by using the government licence check facility.
You will need your driving licence number, national insurance number and postcode.
You can see details about who the licence is for when it is valid from/to, the current status, what vehicles you can drive, any penalties or disqualifications.
You can also get a code so that you can share your licence details with another party such as an employer or car hire company.
Category: DrivingDo I have to inform my insurance company?
The official advice is that you should inform your insurance company of your heart condition and implant (ICD/pacemaker) if you have one.
However, from our members experience most insurance companies do not seem to be interested in the fact that you have had a cardiac arrest. If you have a valid licence to drive then they are generally happy to take your money and insure you.
Of course, if you are on a prolonged suspension and your car isn’t going to be used you may wish to speak to them to alter your level of cover and potentially save a few pounds.
Category: DrivingCan I drive if I get a shock from my ICD?
If at any time you receive an appropriate shock from your ICD i.e. one that is correcting a potentially fatal arrhythmia, you must surrender your licence and stop driving for 6 months.
If you were incapacitated i.e. went unconscious whilst you received the shock the suspension is 2 years. This may be reduced to 6 months if your cardiologist takes steps to prevent any further events requiring a shock eg starting or adjusting medications.
If you receive an inappropriate shock i.e. the shock was unnecessary, then you will receive a 1 month suspension.
If you are driving whilst you receive a shock you should stop as soon as is safe to do so, and should not continue until the cause of the shock has been investigated.
For more information about shocks see our ICD shocks page.
Category: Implantable DevicesWhat is Section 88?
Section 88 refers to a part of the Road Traffic Act that may allow you to continue driving even if you do not physically have your driving licence.
There is a provision in the law, under section 88 that MAY allow you to drive while the DVLA process your application.
You must meet the following criteria:
- You must be confident that your application will not be refused due to any medical condition you declared.
- You must have held a valid driving licence and only drive vehicles you are qualified to drive.
- You must meet any conditions specified on your previous licence
- You must have sent your fully completed application (re-application) to DVLA in the last 12 months
- Your licence has not been refused or revoked
- You are not disqualified from holding a licence by a court
If you fulfil these points you can drive again even though your licence has not been returned to you.
DVLA cannot tell you if this section of the law applies to you.
For more information read the government leaflet on Section 88
Category: Section 88How do I get my licence back?
Once your advised period of voluntary surrender has elapsed you will be able to re-apply again and have your licence returned to you.
You can find information on this process on the government website and a link to download the relevant form.
Once you have mailed this you will receive a letter from DVLA stating that they have written to your consultant with an expected 6-week turnaround. You do not need to do anything further other than call them back on several occasions as this part of the process takes a long time!
The DVLA will send your cardiologist forms to get more information about your cardiac status. Your cardiologist will need to sign these forms to say they should issue you with a licence. This all takes time, and it’s a good idea to chase your cardiologist to make sure you’re not forgotten.
It’s also worth starting the process a good 8 weeks before the date your period of driving restriction ends.
If your licence was revoked, as opposed to voluntarily surrendered, you may find that the process to get your licence back longer and more arduous.
Category: DrivingHow can I tell if my licence was revoked or not?
Why was my licence revoked?
In the SCA UK Facebook Group we are seeing an increasing number of members who get their licence revoked when they voluntarily surrender it.
At this time it is not clear why this happens as we have seen members with apparently similar circumstances have different outcomes.
The DVLA can revoke your licence on medical grounds and it may be the differences in the details that they make their decision but for now, it is a bit of a mystery.
Our only advice would be to not use the online form but as soon as possible fill in the paper forms and send in your licence stating that you are voluntarily surrendering your licence. This is because anecdotal evidence from the group indicates that if you use the online form it appears you’re more likely to get your licence revoked.
Remember if your license is revoked you cannot use Section 88 rules to drive until your license is reinstated.
Category: DrivingDo I need to inform the DVLA I had a cardiac arrest?
It is YOUR responsibility to tell the DVLA about a health or medical condition that could affect your driving.
You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving.
You can do this via the “Report a medical condition” page.
You’ll need to enter details about your current driving licence and your condition. You might also need to give your GP’s name and address.
How this will affect your ability to drive will depend on what the cause of your cardiac arrest was, any remedial treatment you have had and any subsequent or other conditions you have.
You will have to enter or select from a list of conditions that you have and may affect your ability to drive.
The list is quite long and covers many conditions but you will NOT find cardiac arrest amongst them as it is an event, rather than a condition.
Conditions that are on the list and may apply to cardiac arrest survivors:
- Heart attacks (Angioplasty, stents)
- Having an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
- Brugada syndrome
- Catheter Ablation
- Cognitive problems
- Congenital heart disease
- Arrhythmias
- Heart Failure
- Hypoxic Brain Injury
- Long QT Syndrome
- Severe memory problems
- Pacemakers
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Fainting/Syncope
- Tachycardia
- Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
When does my period of suspension start from?
The date of your suspension will usually start from the date that you have any remedial work or get a formal diagnosis of a condition, not necessarily the date of your cardiac arrest.
For example, if you have a cardiac arrest and 2 weeks later get an ICD implant, then the suspension will start from the date of the implant, not the arrest.
If you have a heart attack as the cause of your cardiac arrest, the problem is often looked at and dealt within a short time frame (same day) so the suspension will start from that day.
Category: Implantable DevicesHow long will I have to stop driving for?
It will largely depend on your individual circumstances and medical conditions but common suspension periods are as follows:
If you had a heart attack as the cause of your cardiac arrest and it was remedied with medications and/or stents then the suspension period is 1 month.
If you had to have an ICD fitted then the suspension period will be 6 months from the date of the implant. If you have any shocks further suspensions will apply and the length will vary depending on a number of factors. See “Can I drive if I get a shock from my ICD” for more information.
You may also have to temporarily stop driving if your anti-arrhythmic medications are changed, typically for 1 month.
If your driving licence was revoked you’ll have to wait until all medical enquiries are complete. You will also need to have your driving licence back before you can start driving again.
You can check the DVLA information for medical professionals regarding assessing fitness to drive here, and this shows the rules regarding whether you can drive or not and if not, for how long.
Category: Implantable DevicesHow do I contact the DVLA?
Full contact details of the DVLA Medical Group are on this page on the government website
Category: DVLAWhat form do I use to tell the DVLA I have an ICD?
Can I drive an HGV or commercial vehicle after a cardiac arrest?
This is one for your doctor.
You should be assessed by your doctor using these guidelines which determine the rules for assessing drivers with cardiac conditions.
Many of the conditions listed will mean that there will be some period of suspension, but you may be allowed to drive again if you can meet certain conditions including assessment by a specialist cardiologist.
However, if you have an ICD implanted you will not be able to drive an HGV or commercial vehicle.
Category: Implantable DevicesDo all cardiac arrest survivors get the same suspension period?
No.
The length of your suspension can vary depending on a number of factors including but not limited to cause of your cardiac, remedial actions taken, subsequent or other conditions.
It may seem tempting to compare one person’s case with another but it is often difficult to do so because of not having the full facts about a person’s situation.
Category: DrivingBut I need my car for work!
If you are unable to drive because of your cardiac arrest and you are in a position to return to work, you may apply for the “Access to Work” scheme which may help with other transport costs, such as public transport or even private taxi’s.
For example, a member of SCA UK who was a teacher when she had her SCA was unable to return to work because she had an ICD fitted and this meant a driving suspension period of 6 months. She lived in the country and there was no suitable public transport to get her to her school. The “Access to Work” scheme gave her a grant to allow her to get a taxi to and from her place of work.
If you can get to work by public transport you might be able to get reduced price travel such as a Disabled Person’s Railcard. If your licence has been revoked for medical reasons, you are entitled to a free bus pass in most areas. In Northern Ireland, you can get a SmartPass giving you half price travel. In London, you can get a Freedom Pass. Apply through your local council.
Category: DrivingI’m worried about someone’s ability to drive
If you are worried about the safety of someone’s driving, it can be a tricky subject to talk about. But it’s vital to make them aware of your concerns, not just for their safety, but for the safety of others on the road.
If a person has been driving for many years it can be hard to suddenly stop, and it can change the way they see themselves. So they may need support and guidance from family, friends and professionals.
Sometimes survivors find it difficult to recognise the effects of the event. It can also affect your judgement and, in rare cases, someone can be unaware they have a disability. This is called anosognosia.
Family members and professionals may need to remind them that they can no longer drive because of the potential risk to themselves and others. You could read this together and talk about the other ways of getting around, and plan some of the journeys they might want to make using alternative types of transport.
If you feel that the person is not safe to drive and they refuse to stop driving, you can write to the DLVA in confidence online.
Category: DrivingDriving again after a cardiac arrest
If you are able to return to driving, the choice of when and how to do it is a personal one.
If you have an occupational therapist, talk to them about it. They can tailor your therapy to help prepare you to return to driving. An automatic car can be easier to drive than a manual.
Before you start driving again, you may find it helpful to have a few refresher lessons with a qualified driving instructor. You can find driving instructors in your area by looking in your local phonebook or on the internet. Check that they are registered with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). Mobility centres can also provide advice about returning to driving.
Insurance
Before you start driving again you must tell your insurance company about your cardiac arrest and any medical conditions you have. If you don’t do this, it might invalidate your insurance. Insurance companies have their own processes, so talk to yours to find out more. Check your policy carefully. They might want confirmation that you are safe to drive.
Having a medical condition can make insurance more expensive. Try shopping around for a competitive quote, or look for a specialist insurance provider when you need to renew.
Category: Driving