Driving a Car After a Stroke

Overview

After a stroke, problems with your vision, speech, or ability to move can change your ability to drive safely. So you'll need your doctor's approval to drive again. This may be hard to accept. This may feel like a big loss of independence. But this approval is for the safety of yourself and others.

Talk with your doctor and your loved ones about driving. Also, check with your motor vehicle department about the rules for people who have had a stroke. You may need to take classes, be tested again, and have changes made to your car. Some stroke rehab centers give driver training classes.

If you can't drive because of problems from your stroke, and you do not have other options, check with your stroke rehab center and public transit agency. They can help you find local services. Senior groups and volunteer agencies may also offer transportation services.