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By Sgt. Troy Christianson

Question: I have a medical condition that causes me to lose consciousness on occasion. I am hoping to get a driver’s license. Is there anything I need to do?

Answer: When applying for an instruction permit or driver’s license, you will be asked questions about medical conditions. Providing false information on the application could result in losing your driving privileges.

If you have a medical condition, you may need to provide a statement from a physician indicating whether or not the condition affects your ability to drive safely. If you already have a permit or license and are diagnosed with epilepsy or a condition that could cause loss of consciousness, you must submit a physician’s statement within 30 days of the diagnosis. The statement must indicate whether or not the condition interferes with your ability to drive safely.

Send medical statements to:

• Driver and Vehicle Services

• Driver Evaluation Unit

• 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 170 St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-5170

For more information, contact the Driver Evaluation Unit at 651-296-2025.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848.  (Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)