Driving and Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)

Most people with Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) are still able to drive safely. However, in some cases TED can affect vision and may make driving more challenging or unsafe. This information explains the possible effects on eyesight, your legal responsibilities with the DVLA, and when to seek advice before driving.

⚠️ Possible vision changes in TED

TED can cause:

  • 👓 Double vision (seeing two images)
  • 🔍 Blurred or reduced vision
  • 💡 Sensitivity to light or glare
  • 😣 Eye pain or discomfort
  • 👀 Reduced side vision (rare but serious)

👉 Not everyone with TED will experience these problems, but it’s important to have regular vision checks.

🚗 Do I need to tell the DVLA?

In the UK, you must tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency if a medical condition affects your ability to drive safely.

You should report TED if it causes:

  • Persistent double vision
  • Vision below driving eyesight standards
  • Loss of peripheral (side) vision
  • Any eye problem your doctor or optician says may affect driving

⚖️ What happens if you don’t tell DVLA?

  • ❌ Your insurance may become invalid
  • ❌ You could be fined
  • ❌ You may put yourself and others at risk

👁️ Eyesight rules for driving (UK)

You must be able to:

✔ Read a number plate from 20 metres
✔ Meet minimum eyesight standards (glasses/contact lenses allowed)
✔ Have an adequate field of vision

An optician or eye specialist can test this for you.

👁️‍🗨️ What about double vision?

Double vision is common in TED and can make driving unsafe.

🚫 You should stop driving and seek medical advice if you develop:

  • New double vision
  • Worsening vision changes

Some people may drive safely with:

  • Prisms (special glasses)
  • Covering one eye (only if medically advised)

👉 This must always be assessed by an eye specialist and may still need to be reported to DVLA.

🚨 When to stop driving immediately

Stop driving and seek urgent medical advice if you notice:

  • Sudden loss of vision
  • Rapid worsening eyesight
  • Severe eye pain affecting vision
  • New or severe double vision

📝 How to tell the DVLA

You can report a medical condition:

  • Online via the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency website
  • Or by post

Search: “DVLA medical conditions and driving”

DVLA may:

  • ✔ Allow you to keep driving
  • 📄 Request medical reports
  • ⏳ Issue a short-term licence
  • 🚫 Stop your licence if unsafe

🚘 Tips for safer driving with TED

  • 👁️ Have regular eye tests
  • 👓 Wear prescribed glasses/prisms
  • 🌙 Be cautious at night (glare sensitivity)
  • 🚫 Avoid driving if eyes are very painful or dry
  • ⏸️ Take breaks on long journeys

Support & Information

Thyroid Eye Disease Charitable Trust offers trusted information, emotional support, and patient resources.

Many people also find it helpful to connect with others living with TED.

You can join the Thyroid Eye Disease Support UK Facebook community for shared experiences, advice, and support.