C1 driving license (HGV)

Hi all,

Im 22 and I just graduated as a Paramedic. I was due to start my job but for this I have to do a C1 driving test. I sent off for a provisional license from the DVLA but they have now had my license for 8 weeks. Due to this I have had to delay my intake with the ambulance service to start my job. The DVLA have contacted my consultant and apparently now the DVLA doctors are deciding if I am fit to drive larger vehicles. I am a bit scared as if they say no I cant start my job as a medic! Which I have spent 3 years getting a degree to do. Was wondering if anyone has had to apply for this license? I have complete heart block, have had my pacemaker for 10 years. No complications, I have never got dizzy, never fainted, never had any complications. Recent Echo and 24 hour tape were all fine! So I didnt think I would have a problem as the DVLAs booklets say you can drive a C1 with congenitial heart block as long as you have a pacemaker.

 

Regards,

A confused paramedic!

5 Comments

commercial license

by Tracey_E - 2018-10-09 13:02:05

It's different in UK than here in the States but here a pacemaker isn't an issue for a commercial drivers license. An ICD can be a roadblock, but not just a pacemaker. Hopefully all you'll need is your doctor's clearance. Have you checked with your doctor's office to see if they've sent back whatever DVLA asked for? Good luck!

Driving with a pacemaker

by Selwyn - 2018-10-09 13:35:13

As you say, the DVLA standards state you can drive a HGV with a pacemaker after 6 weeks, provided you do not have any other problems- eg. faints, blackouts etc. 

It is worth checking with your GP that the DVLA have checked up on your medical notes.

Selwyn 

How long after PM surgery?

by Jacquie - 2018-10-09 17:56:21

Hi

I had pacemaker surgery September 14 and the 2nd September 18th. My to lead was not in properly. 

A little embarrassing to ask when is ok to make love and have a orgasm?

Thank you,

Jacquie 

Jacq

OK, I gotta ask...

by AgentX86 - 2018-10-09 22:28:24

Is a commercial license required for your orgasm?

Seriously, there may be other reasons to limit sex (these are things your doctor should be discussing with you) but a pacemaker isn't one.  You're a month out from implant.  You should be good to go but perhaps no trapeze work for another few weeks (sorry, couldn't resist ;-).

Paramedic

by Saocalla - 2018-10-09 23:08:29

Hi! 
I'm a primary care paramedic in Canada. I went through my physical and driving license before my emergency pacemaker. I had prior heart complications but with multiple diagnosis and no final diagnosis at the time. This created a lot of questions about if I was physically fit to perform the duties of the job as I had a long history of presyncope. They ended up deeming me physically fit to perform the duties of the job. First they wanted a written document from my cardiologist deeming me medically fit. Once I got them the letter stating there's no reason I shouldn't be able to currently work as a paramedic I was cleared. 

I'm not sure their policies where you live but I would imagine if you get a letter from your cardiologist saying you are physically fit to do all duties of a paramedic and since the implant of your pacemaker 10 years ago you have no physical / driving limitations or concerns then they should clear you to recieve your license. 

If you were unable to drive due to your pacemaker they wouldn't even allow you to carry a regular driving license. Physical limitations to driving would be referred to driving any vehicle as it's unsafe for others on the road. It's not unsafe to others on the road when you drive your personal vehicle so this shouldn't be any different. For example being at risk for having a seizure while driving. At least in Canada! 

If you are rejected for the commercial license I would see who's higher up and go to them about their decision with supporting medical documents that there is zero reason for limitations on your driving. 

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