DVLA can revoke licences from drivers if they have | Tech News

Hundreds of motorists have had their driving licences revoked by the DVLA for struggling from one common situation, in response to consultants. DVLA knowledge confirmed that 1000’s have had their licences taken off them for sleep-related situations over the previous 5 years.

Driver fatigue is one of the most important contributing components to highway collisions, with motorists more likely to lose focus and take their eyes off the highway. Sleep consultants at MattressNextDay despatched Freedom of Information (FOI) requests to the DVLA to uncover how many drivers have been affected. However, the info revealed that tons of of drivers had been shedding their freedom to drive yearly for the straightforward situation. 

Martin Seeley, senior sleep knowledgeable at MattressNextDay stated: “Driving while tired can impact reaction times, decision-making abilities and vigilance on the roads, putting you and others on the road at risk. 

“In fact, studies have shown that a low level of fatigue can impair your reaction time as much as, if not more than, being under the influence of alcohol.”

According to knowledge, 1,816 drivers within the UK have had their licenses revoked since 2020 for sleep-related situations. However, the difficulty seems to be on the rise with 376 licences revoked in 2205 as of July. 

This is already increased than the 371 licences revoked over the entire of 2023, the very best this decade. Over 170,000 drivers within the UK have reported sleep-related medical situations to the DVLA, a 15.7% increase since 2018. 

Last 12 months, 603 licence functions had been rejected as a consequence of sleep situations up on the 592 functions denied in 2023. Up till July, 484 functions have been rejected to date in 2025, suggesting it’s nonetheless an situation plaguing the DVLA.

Motorists should report any medical situations to the DVLA, with  sleep apnoea and narcolepsy amongst these listed. Failure to replace the DVLA about any severe health situations may see highway customers fined up to £1,000. 

Mr Seeley careworn that extreme yawning, sluggish reactions, heavy eyelids and problem focusing are all early indicators of tiredness. However, he urged highway customers to all the time pull over and stop for a relaxation if they are struggling to make sure they keep secure. 

He added: “If you notice these signs, we recommend: taking a short 15-20 minute nap, drinking caffeine, getting some fresh air and stretching your body, staying hydrated, considering alternative transport, and only driving again if you know you can safely.”