World MS Day 2026: Driving with MS - Maintaining Independence, Confidence and Safety on the Road

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Supporting the ‘My MS Diagnosis’ campaign and helping people with Multiple Sclerosis stay mobile for longer

Every year on 30th May, people around the world come together to mark World MS Day, raising awareness of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and championing better support for those living with the condition. This year’s theme, “My MS Diagnosis”, focuses on the importance of early and accurate diagnosis, while highlighting the experiences of people navigating life after receiving an MS diagnosis.

At Herts Ability, we understand that receiving an MS diagnosis can bring uncertainty, especially when it comes to maintaining independence and mobility. One of the most common concerns we hear is:

“Will I still be able to drive?”

The answer, for many people, is yes.

An MS diagnosis does not automatically mean the end of driving. With the right support, assessments, vehicle adaptations and professional guidance, many people continue driving safely and confidently for years after diagnosis.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis and Its Impact on Driving

Multiple Sclerosis is a lifelong neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It is one of the leading causes of disability among younger adults and affects more than 130,000 people in the UK and an estimated 2.9 million people worldwide.

Because MS affects everyone differently, symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Difficulty walking
• Vision problems
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness and tingling
• Balance and coordination difficulties
• Muscle spasms and stiffness
• Bladder issues
• Cognitive challenges affecting memory, concentration and planning

These symptoms can sometimes impact essential driving skills, including:

• Steering and vehicle control
• Using pedals safely
• Reaction times
• Processing information quickly
• Judging traffic situations
• Getting in and out of a vehicle comfortably

However, experiencing these symptoms does not automatically mean driving is no longer possible. Many drivers simply need the right adaptations, support or periodic reviews to continue driving safely.

Do You Need to Tell the DVLA About MS?

Yes.

If you are diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, you must inform both the DVLA and your motor insurance provider. This is a legal requirement and helps ensure you remain compliant with driving regulations.

The DVLA may request medical information or recommend further assessment depending on your circumstances. It is also important to ensure your eyesight continues to meet legal driving standards.

Why Driving Matters So Much

For many people, driving represents far more than simply getting from A to B.

Driving provides:

• Independence
• Freedom of choice
• Access to work and education
• Social connections
• Participation in family life
• Confidence and wellbeing

Losing the ability to drive can have a significant impact on mental health, social interaction and overall quality of life. That's why proactive support is so important.

At Herts Ability, our goal is simple:

Help people remain safe, independent drivers for as long as possible.

Real Story: Androulla’s Journey Back to Driving

After being diagnosed with MS, Androulla found long journeys increasingly difficult.

Rather than giving up driving, she visited Herts Ability to explore her options.

Through a specialist driving assessment, she had the opportunity to try different vehicle adaptations and controls. After identifying an over-ring accelerator as the best solution for her needs, she successfully completed her assessment and regained confidence behind the wheel.

Her driving instructor, Simon, reflected on the experience:

"Seeing Androulla's transformation has been amazing. With the right adaptations, she's back behind the wheel and loving her freedom."

Stories like Androulla's demonstrate how the right support can make a life-changing difference.

Carol’s Story: Independence Doesn't Have to End

When Carol received her MS diagnosis, uncertainty quickly followed.

Not because she had suddenly lost her ability to drive, but because she wasn't sure what was still possible.

Like many people with MS, Carol found herself facing assumptions about what she could and couldn't do.

Following a specialist assessment at Herts Ability, we worked together to identify practical solutions tailored to her needs.

The result?

A return to safe driving and renewed independence.

As Carol explained:

"I'll always be grateful... Today, I'm back on the road."

She regained the ability to:

• Visit friends and family
• Run everyday errands
• Attend appointments independently
• Continue living life on her own terms

How Herts Ability Driving Assessments Can Help

A diagnosis of MS does not necessarily prevent someone from driving, but because the condition can change over time, regular reviews can be valuable. Specialist driving assessments provide reassurance, identify any emerging difficulties and help drivers access adaptations when needed.

Physical Assessment

MS frequently affects physical function and coordination.

During a physical assessment, our team evaluates:

• Limb strength
• Range of movement
• Sensation
• Coordination
• Vehicle access requirements

Where appropriate, we can recommend adapted controls and equipment to improve comfort, safety and confidence.

Cognitive Assessment

MS can sometimes affect cognitive skills important for driving.

At Herts Ability, we use recognised assessment tools, including the Rookwood Driving Battery, to evaluate abilities relevant to safe driving such as:

• Attention
• Memory
• Planning
• Decision-making
• Information processing

These assessments help us build a complete picture of a person's driving abilities.

Eyesight Assessment

Meeting the legal eyesight requirement is essential for all drivers.

Drivers must be able to read a vehicle number plate from 20 metres, with glasses or contact lenses if needed. If an MS-related visual disturbance is currently affecting vision, it may be advisable to postpone driving until symptoms improve.

In-Car Driving Assessment

The practical driving assessment is often the most valuable part of the process.

This includes:

• Familiarisation with the assessment vehicle
• Driving in a variety of road conditions
• Junctions and roundabouts
• Dual carriageways and faster roads
• Complex traffic situations

Assessors focus on how MS-related symptoms may affect safe driving, rather than expecting drivers to perform a formal driving test.

Vehicle Adaptations That Can Help

One of the biggest misconceptions about driving with MS is that standard controls are the only option.

In reality, many vehicle adaptations can help compensate for physical difficulties, including:

• Hand-operated accelerator and brake controls
• Over-ring accelerators
• Steering aids
• Left-foot accelerators
• Transfer solutions
• Wheelchair loading advice and equipment

Herts Ability operates a fleet of dual-controlled assessment vehicles equipped with a wide range of adaptations, allowing drivers to find solutions that suit their individual needs.

Supporting the World MS Day 2026 Campaign

The My MS Diagnosis campaign highlights the importance of:

• Early and accurate diagnosis
• Better awareness of MS
• Improved support systems
• Sharing lived experiences
• Access to information and resources
• Building more inclusive communities

At Herts Ability, we are proud to support this important campaign and help people understand that an MS diagnosis does not define their future.

With the right advice, support and adaptations, many people continue to live active, independent lives.

How You Can Help

This World MS Day:

• Reach out to someone living with MS
• Listen to their experiences
• Challenge assumptions about disability
• Share information about available support
• Encourage people to seek advice if driving becomes more challenging

Every conversation helps build awareness and understanding.

Book a Driving Assessment with Herts Ability

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and would like expert advice about driving, our specialist team is here to help.

We provide professional driving assessments, vehicle adaptation advice and practical solutions designed to keep you driving safely and confidently for as long as possible.

Contact Herts Ability

📞 01707 324 581

📧 driving@hertsability.org.uk

Take the first step towards maintaining your independence and confidence on the road today!

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