2010 BC Guide in Determining Fitness to Drive

GUIDELINES29.6 Private and commercial drivers who use psychotropic drugsApplicationAssessment guidelinesFitness guidelinesOSMVdeterminationguidelinesConditionsRestrictionsThese guidelines apply to driver fitness determinations for privateand commercial drivers who are using psychotropic drugs.If the treating physician, or cognitive screening, indicates possiblepersistent impairment of the cognitive functions necessary fordriving, OSMV will request a DriveABLE assessment, unless therehas been no significant change in the individual’s condition orcognitive ability since a previous functional assessment.Otherwise, OSMV will not generally request further information.OSMV will consider the following points when making a driverfitness determination in relation to the use of drugs: OSMV is primarily concerned with the persistent cognitiveimpairment associated with the effects or side effects ofmedication used for ongoing treatment of medical conditions. Temporary impairments from short-term treatment or changes indosage or type of medication are considered transientimpairments for licensing purposes. In these circumstances, theprescribing physician should advise patients not to drive until theeffect of a drug is known. Where there is evidence of somepersistent cognitive impairment caused by a stable dose,individuals should be assessed for fitness to drive. Where an individual is taking multiple drugs (poly-pharmacy),OSMV will consider the potential compounding effects. Whererelevant, OSMV will also consider the potential compoundingeffect of the use of alcohol or illicit drugs.OSMV may find individuals fit to drive if: the treating physician or cognitive screening does not indicatepossible persistent impairment of the cognitive functionsnecessary for driving, or where the treating physician or cognitive screening indicatespossible impairment of the cognitive functions necessary fordriving, a functional assessment indicates that they have thefunctional ability required for their class of licence heldNo conditions are required.No restrictions are required.364