Regardless of what causes a lapse of consciousness (LOC) disorder, it can affect one’s ability to operate a vehicle or vessel. If you lose consciousness for a short period of time, you can also lose control of your vehicle, which can result in serious accidents or death.
Some medical conditions can cause LOC disorders. These disorders cause you to lose consciousness or awareness for a period of time. Epilepsy is the most common LOC disorder, and it can occur at any age. Seizures can occur outside of epilepsy, caused by anything that impairs normal brain function, such as trauma, tumors, infections, genetics, stroke, injury, metabolic imbalances (such as diabetic comas), and more. Sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, can also cause a loss of awareness or consciousness.
Can I get a driver license (DL) if I have an LOC disorder?
It depends. When DMV receives a report of a driver with an LOC disorder, DMV must evaluate the driver. After the evaluation, DMV will decide how to act.
Need something else?
American Epilepsy Society (AES)
AES offers a community of professionals dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of epilepsy.
Epilepsy Foundation
The Epilepsy Foundation is with you on your journey with epilepsy and seizures.
American Academy of Neurology (AAN)
From education, research, policies, and non-profit recommendations, the AAN has a wealth of resources on consciousness disorders.