Driving with medical conditions and disabilities

Under Italian law, the authority responsible for assessing the physical and mental conditions of applicants for the issue, confirmation of validity and review of special driving licences is the local medical board (Commissione Medica Locale), which is set up by the competent ASL. This responsibility is outlined in Article 119 of the Italian Highway Code (Legislative Decree No. 285 of 30 April 1992, as amended) and Articles 320-330 of the Implementing and Enforcement Regulations (Presidential Decree No. 495 of 16 December 1992).


The fitness assessment applies to license applicants and holders with significant physical or mental conditions that may affect driving safety, or impairments affecting hearing, the limbs, the spine, or other physical characteristics.

Role of the local medical board

In all circumstances where the health condition of the license applicant or holder may affect their own or other people’s safety, an assessment by the local medical board is a mandatory step. Specifically, the board is responsible for:

01
issuing medical certificates of fitness to drive to people with visual or hearing impairments, limb and/or spinal impairments, physical problems, obstructive sleep apnoea, or cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine, nervous, mental and urogenital disorders (see Appendix II to Title IV - Art. 320 (Disabling diseases) of Presidential Decree No. 495 of 16 December 1992)
02
conducting examinations to reassess fitness to drive, if requested by the Prefect and/or the Department of Land Transport, following positive checks for alcohol or drug abuse, road accidents, or diseases
03
issuing medical certificates of fitness to drive for specific driving license holders who have exceeded the age limits (60 years for D, D/E, CQC licences; 65 years for C, C/E, CQC, BK licences)

How to book an appointment

In order to be examined by the local medical board, you must make an appointment, either directly or through a designated person, at your ASL or online, if this option is available.
Opening hours and access procedures may vary depending on the area.

For more specific information, refer to the Special Licences section on the official website of your local ASL