Medical Considerations

Determining Your Ability to Drive Safely

In Iowa, a person's ability to safely operate a motor vehicle is determined on a case-by-case basis. Minor impairments may result in a driving restriction, while more serious conditions may require the driver to surrender his or her license.

Vision Impairments

Before you will be allowed to renew your driver's license, you'll need to complete a vision screening that insures you have at least 20/40 vision in one eye. Corrective lenses are allowed when completing the vision screening, but your license will have a restriction that requires the use of the lenses whenever you are driving.

If your vision is between 20/40 and 20/50, you are not allowed to drive when headlights are required. If your vision is between 20/50 and 20/70, you are not allowed to drive when headlights are required or at speeds of more than 35 mph. If your vision is less than 20/70, you are not eligible to receive a driver's license.

Hearing Impairments

In most cases, partial or complete deafness is not a significant driving impairment. In fact, it is not much different than driving with your air conditioner on high or having your radio on. With effective use of mirrors and a commitment to constant alertness, the hearing impaired can still be very safe drivers. However, if you have reason to believe your hearing may affect your driving ability, you should contact your local DOT office for additional assistance.

Seizures

Seizures are considered a serious impairment to driving ability, because a seizure can affect a person's awareness, consciousness, or muscle control. If you suffer from epilepsy or another seizure disorder, you must provide a note from your physician saying your seizures are adequately controlled by medication and you have been seizure free for at least six months.

Even if you are found to be a safe driver, however, caution is still in order. Since many of the drugs used to treat seizures can cause drowsiness, it is important to remember that you should not drive until you know how your medication will affect your body.

Testing Accommodations for Drivers with Disabilities

If you have a disability that you believe will affect your ability to take the knowledge test required to obtain your driver's license, contact the nearest DOT office to request special accommodations.

If you would like an audio CD copy of the Iowa Driver's Manual, call (800) 532-1121.

Reporting an Incompetent Driver

According to Iowa law, a physician or optometrist who has reason to believe a driver is not qualified to safely operate a motor vehicle due to a medical impairment can request that the Iowa DOT evaluate the person's driving record. When making a report under this section, the physician or optometrist is automatically immune from any civil or criminal liability which might be incurred.

Additional information regarding policies for reporting incompetent drivers can be found on the Iowa Legislature Web site.

Older Drivers

While teen drivers must compensate for their lack of experience on the road, older drivers face difficulties as well. For example, many older drivers find it more difficult to see at night as they age. Judging speed and distance is also challenging for older drivers.

Older drivers with serious medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or Parkinson's may be required to submit a physician's approval before they are allowed to renew their driver's licenses.

If you are worried about passing the knowledge test to renew your license, you may find it helpful to download a copy of the Senior Driver's Workbook on the Iowa DOT Web site. This helpful guide contains a review of the basic concepts you will be expected to know in order to retain your driving privileges.

Adjusting to Life without a Driver's License

If you are accustomed to driving on a regular basis, losing your license can feel somewhat overwhelming. However, many Iowans manage to maintain their independence without the use of a motor vehicle. Download the Driving Retirement brochure from the Iowa DOT Web site to learn more about public transportation and mobility assistance for senior citizens throughout the state.