Medical condition

How do​es your medical condition affect driving?

Driving is complex. In order to maintain a license in the state of Wisconsin, a driver must be functionally able to safely operate a motor vehicle. A driver’s physical, mental and emotional health are all important factors in assessing this functional ability to drive. Health problems can affect the skill and judgment required to drive safely. DMV has a responsibility to evaluate drivers with potentially debilitating health issues to ensure that the drivers licensed in this state are safe to operate their vehicles. 

W​​​hy would the DMV be interested in your medical condition?

Medical conditions can cause symptoms that interfere with a person’s functional ability to drive safely. Examples of such symptoms include:

  • Seizure (per state statute: a driver who has a seizure cannot operate a motor vehicle until they are minimally 90 days past the date of the episode)​
  • Loss of consciousness 
  • Confusion, memory loss, inability to concentrate
  • Impaired judgment and insight
  • Severe shortness of breath
  • Chronic drowsiness or extreme exhaustion
  • Impaired response/reaction time
  • Adverse effects or side effects of medications
  • Impulsive behaviors
  • Inadequate vision
  • Abuse of alcohol and other drugs

To ensure roadway safety, DMV may review a driver’s medical condition as part of licensing. DMV may require a driver to provide a Medical Examination ReportMV3644 or a Certificate of Vision Examination by Competent Authority MV3030V​, take the signs, knowledge and/or skills​ tests, or any combination of these.  

​​Medical Review & Fitness Unit
P.O. Box 7918
Madison WI 53707-7918

Email Wisconsin DMV email service​​
Phone (608) 266-2327
Fax (608) 267-0518