Test booked for driving assessment through exceptional case criteria

[laurat]

Hi all,

I'm Laura, after a stroke at age 40 in August 2021 left me with partial sight loss I'm reapplying for my licence under exceptional case criteria. 

 

I still have quite a lot of blind spots on my left side but concentrated mainly in top left quadrant. 

 

I have adapted to my condition and can do everything used to do unaided except drive. I live completely independently. Can ride a bike in traffic, play tennis, video games etc.

 

I have been issued a PDAL and have a date booked for my test at the end of the month.

 

I am just wandering if I pass the assessment is there a possibility that the medical team that reviews my application will decide that I am still not allowed my licence back? 

 

I have done a fair bit of driving since getting my PDAL and feel that I am still a competent and safe driver. Just worried that on paper looking at my visual field test I may still be deemed unsafe. 

 

Trying to stay positive and optimistic that I will get my independence back whilst also preparing for the devastating news that my application is turned down. Would really appreciate some feedback from anyone who has been in my position.

Thanks in advance,

Laura 

 

[Tina]

Hi Laura  

 

Welcome to BTG.

 

Wishing you well for your test at the end of the month.

I believe they collect all information. Should you get turned down you can appeal. If you read through all the information in this section, others have posted how they re applied etc.

 

Sorry i cant help any further but sending lots of positive thoughts your way for a positive outcome.

Please keep us updated.

 

Take care

Tina xx

[Stephen W]

Hi Laura

I am just starting the exceptional case route.  How did your test go please, and how long did it take DVLA to reach a final decision?

Best wishes

Stephen Wolstenholme

[Tina]

Hi Stephen a very warm welcome to BTG.

 

I have messaged Laura and hope she will update you.

Good luck and hope all goes well for you.

 

Please let us know how you get on.

Take care

Tina  

 

[laurat]

On 20/04/2025 at 20:26, Stephen W said:

Hi Laura

I am just starting the exceptional case route.  How did your test go please, and how long did it take DVLA to reach a final decision?

Best wishes

Stephen Wolstenholme

Hi Stephen,

 

So it took about 10 months from initial application to DVLA and then did the test in Worcester. They told me on the day that they would be reporting back a positive outcome. But they did caveat that with the DVLA has the final say when considering all the evidence. 

 

They said up to 6 weeks for a decision to be made by DVLA. But recommend I call the DVLA to follow up after 2 weeks. Which I did but no decision had been made but they did advise they had received my paperwork. 

Phoned back the following week and they said that my licence was in the post!!!!! Was so happy I cried. 

 

Back on the road now and just so happy to have my independence back!! 

 

Good luck to you 😁

[Tina]

Congratulations Laura happy driving  xx