DMV requesting Medical History

Hello!  I recently renewed my license in the state of MN.  First time since DX with MS.  I recently got a letter from the DMV demanding my medical history and a letter from my Dr. stating I can rive independently.  I guess I am wondering if they can LEGALLY even ask for my medical history?  I just thought of the fact that when asked on the application "if there is a medical condition that prevents you from driving (e.g. epolipsy, dieabetic, etc.) and I checked NO- NOT trying to be dishonest or "get by with something"  I did not think it causes me problems on a daily basis, so did I need to check YES? And do I HAVE to give them my medical history?
THANKS!

[COBOB]

Most states can require your doctor to provide a note stating you are capable of driving.   Driving is a privilege (license granted by law) in most states, not a right (granted by state constitution.)  You may have a right to protection of medical information.  Your local MS Society may be a good place to start.

Bob

[HVAC]

I guess it goes State to State. In our State if you have certain tests the Doctors have to turn you into DMV regardless if they found anything or not. Every year after you have to get a Doctors history and renew. I stay away from most Neurological tests for this reason. Sometimes you come up due to medications. Any Doctor can also turn you in to cover their butt. Yes it is legal if that is how your State's laws go. Driving is a priveledge so they figure you can opt out of giving medical records by not having a license.

Alex

[Valkyrie568]

It would probably be a good idea to contact your local chapter of the National MS Society, I'm sure someone there would know the exact laws for your area. I found the information online for some states, but not MN.

Valerie

[opie74]

I would go to the state'w web-sight and read up on it.  I would also call your doctor for a letter stating that you are capeable to drive.  What a hassel.  i am so sorry.  Mississippi does not do that kind of thing.

[COBOB]

Most states can require your doctor to provide a note stating you are capable of driving.   Driving is a privilege (license granted by law) in most states, not a right (granted by state constitution.)  You may have a right to protection of medical information.  Your local MS Society may be a good place to start.

Bob

[Beula88]

Thank you!  Guess the letter was just a SHOCK after 3 years of not hearing ANYTHING!  Ugghh,,,,,

[Beula88]

Thanks!  I could not take the stress of it all, so my local FP Doctor got me in today and assured me.  I passed the DMV tests, he told me what he was putting in the letter and promised to mail me a copy to keep with me .  Love my Doctor!!  :O)  I am so thankful to have gotten in!

[Beula88]

Thanks for the encouragement!  Maybe I should move to Mississippi!  My General Pract. Dr. worked me in this afternoon and agreed to write a letter stating I was perfectly capable to driving.  I need to find out if this will be an annual thing.

[Beula88]

Thanks for the help!  It was just a huge shock after having been DX for 3 years and not hearing a peep about needing this.  Got it all taken care of today----I hope!  ;o)  Never know with the state of MN!

[Lulu54]

You went through one of those worst nightmare scenarios that many of us might worry about.  A car is absolutely necessary where I live and when and if it comes time to stop driving myself, it will definitely complicate my life.  

I'm glad your doctor took care of this so fast for you.

[heartfelt77]

I would say that we need to also look at safety as a concern.  Keeping in mind that when u get behind the wheel and r on any medications that can alter your brain and thinking in anyway.  It is a Risk that u take so I believe even if the doctor may say your fine u do need to use your own judgement and be honest with them and yourself.  Your not only putting yourself at risk but, also others lives could be included in that.    Accidents do happen by no fault of ours but, I believe if you get into an accident and u are on medications then it would be your fault.    This could result in losing your driving licence and I would think would be dangerous.    I'm not being mean just expressing my concerns.  

I would think that this doesn't vary much state by state.  The laws are what they are and so if proven I'm sure it could make your situation worse.

Please, be careful and alert behind the wheel.  

Misty

[rendean]

Sorry to be late to the party. I'm glad you got your FP to fill out the paper work for you!  I read over your states laws and applications for driving in your state. As others have said, the rules change from state to state.

Do you by chance have a temporary disability sticker or placard? If so, this may have triggered the request. According to what I read from legal standpoint all they request is that you have the correct form filled out by medical person, i.e. MD, OD NP.

As you stated your FP filled out the paperwork so you don not have to give access to private medical records.

I'm glad this worked out for you!!

Ren

[Lulu54]

thanks, Ren, for giving your legal perspective to this one.  The placard makes sense and would be a sure red flag.  Funny, but it didn't do anything with my Ohio DMV.