Losing a driver's license w/ simple partial epilepsy?

Do you have TLE with simple partial seizures? I have TLE and my driving restriction (Michigan) is 6 months from each seizure with the option of less at the discretion of the state board. Illinois has 'no set seizure-free period' which means they ask you a series of questions when you renew your license and it will be up to the board to allow a license. Usually this means that they may be harder on you if you've had tonic-clonic or absence seizure activity. If you've only had simple partials then you may be okay. That is the only kind I've had. I can't drive until around March. That's the month I renew it too or beginning of April. I'm pretty sure I'll be okay. Ive been seizure free since November. I'm used to having them every 6-8 weeks. I hope this website helps.... http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/answerplace/Social/driving/statedrivinglaws.cfm This will give you the driving laws for epilepsy in Ill. Good Luck!!! Michelle

Hi Elsea, Here is some US info: http://www.epilepsy.com/epilepsy/rights_driving.html It makes NO SENSE to automatically think that those (who don't lose consciousness) with simple partials are 'with it' to the degree one should be if behind a wheel. Gads..I remember not knowing my name during some simple partial seizures. The ONLY beauty about simple partials is that I always knew when they occurred, but during the SP seizures I always lost my ability to speak and hear (NOT reliable while driving). I'd generally also be distracted (and freaking out) because I knew I was having a seizure = another reason simple partials should not be seen differently re: driving. I'm betting your Dr suggested the VEEG test for a reason. Btw, I'm one who has taken Tegretol for decades. It is an old seizure drug 'known' to cause osteoporosis in some people, so take daily calcium & vitamin D suppliments while on that med. (And it doesn't control everyone either.) best wishes ~sol