Charlestown Family Health Practice provides medical reports and eyesight tests needed for your driver’s licence, whether you are applying for the first time, renewing, or updating your licence with the NDLS (National Driver Licence Service).

 

We aim to make the process easy and efficient for you — but your preparation is key. Below are some tips to help you avoid delays and ensure your form is completed correctly.

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Top Tips Before Your Driver's Licence Appointment

 

Book in advance

 

Please book your appointment at least 6–8 weeks before your licence expires. This gives you time to complete all steps before the deadline.

 

Know your medical responsibilities

Before your appointment, read the NDLS Medical Fitness to Drive Guidelines. You can find them on www.ndls.ie. These guidelines explain what medical conditions must be declared and what documents are needed.

 

If you have any of the following conditions, please review the NDLS website and how this may impact driving https://www.ndls.ie/medical-fitness/health-and-driving-information-leaflets.html 

• Alcohol and Driving

• Cardiac Conditions and Driving

• Dementia and Driving

• Dementia and Giving Up Driving

• Diabetes and Driving

• Emergency Department

• Epilepsy Leaflets

• Medical assessment for fitness to drive

• Medicines and Driving

• Pregnancy and Driving

• Sleep Apnoea

• Stroke, Transient Ischaemic Attack and Driving

• Vision and Driving

• Your health and driving

• FAQs - Your health and driving

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If you wear glasses or contact lenses

• Please make sure you have had a recent eye test with your optician before your appointment. Bring your glasses or lenses with you on the day.

 

Ask if there is a fee

• Many reports are not covered by the HSE or your medical card. We will let you know the cost when you ask at reception.

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What Happens at Your Appointment?

 

• We will go through your medical history

• We will perform a short physical exam.

• An eyesight test can also be done as part of the visit.

• The doctor will complete your NDLS D501 form and give it back to you for submission.

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 Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: Will I definitely be approved to drive?
A: The GP will follow NDLS medical rules. In some cases, we may need further reports from your hospital team. In rare cases, we may advise that you cannot drive safely at this time.

 

Q: Is there a fee?
A: Yes — medicals for driver’s licences are not covered by the HSE. Please ask reception about the cost.

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