Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) causes repeated interruptions to breathing during sleep, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness — a major factor in road traffic collisions. For HGV drivers, it poses a significant road safety risk. This guide explains the DVLA rules for HGV drivers with sleep apnoea in 2026.
DVLA Rules by Severity
| Severity | AHI (events per hour) | DVLA Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | 5–14 | May drive if no excessive daytime sleepiness |
| Moderate | 15–29 | Must stop driving until effectively treated |
| Severe | 30+ | Must stop driving until effectively treated |
If you have moderate or severe OSA, you must stop driving and notify the DVLA. You may resume driving once you are receiving effective treatment and your specialist confirms you are compliant and no longer experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness.
Treatment: CPAP Therapy
The most effective treatment for moderate to severe OSA is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy. CPAP machines record usage data. The DVLA may request this data as evidence of compliance. You should use CPAP every night for at least 4 hours and attend regular follow-up appointments with your sleep specialist.
Returning to Driving
To return to driving after a diagnosis of moderate or severe OSA, you must be receiving effective treatment, have no residual excessive daytime sleepiness, have a satisfactory assessment from a sleep specialist, and notify the DVLA with the specialist's report. The DVLA will typically grant a short-period licence requiring regular specialist reviews.
Practical Advice
If you suspect you have sleep apnoea, speak to your GP as soon as possible. Never drive if you feel excessively sleepy. Maintain a healthy weight — obesity is the single biggest risk factor for OSA. Avoid alcohol in the evening as it relaxes the throat muscles and worsens OSA. Carry your CPAP machine when staying away from home overnight.
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GS Driver Training has helped thousands of drivers qualify since 1996. We offer Class 1 (C+E), Class 2 (C), C1, ADR, and CPC training from our facility in Surrey. View our courses or call 01252 447808.
