A Group 1 driving licence is the standard UK car and motorcycle licence held by most drivers. Following cardiac arrest or ICD implantation, Group 1 licence holders face a period of mandatory driving restriction, but the rules are less stringent than those that apply to Group 2 licence holders (lorry and bus drivers).
After cardiac arrest
Following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest or a sustained ventricular arrhythmia causing incapacity, the DVLA requires a minimum period off driving. Current guidance from the DVLA (which is updated periodically and should always be checked at gov.uk) typically requires:
- A minimum 4-week driving ban after cardiac arrest where an ICD has been implanted and the cause has been identified and treated
- Longer periods if the cause has not been fully identified or treated, or if there are ongoing arrhythmia concerns
- Return to driving is subject to satisfactory assessment of the underlying condition, cardiac function, and device programming
After ICD implantation
For those who receive an ICD following cardiac arrest or for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death, the standard DVLA guidance typically allows return to Group 1 driving after a period of observation (usually one month for primary prevention implants, longer following a clinical event). The device clinic and cardiologist will advise on the specific timeline.
After an ICD shock
Receiving an appropriate ICD shock (indicating a dangerous arrhythmia occurred) typically triggers a further driving ban, as the DVLA considers the risk of incapacitation. Further guidance is available from the DVLA driving restrictions for ICD entry.
Notifying the DVLA and insurer
All relevant cardiac events and device implantations must be notified to the DVLA. Failing to do so and driving when restricted is a criminal offence and will invalidate motor insurance. The cardiology or device team should advise on the notification process.
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