After my AVM cerebral bleed, and craniotomy I had lost my drivers' license, but
I had always loved driving, and I meant to get it back if at all possible. My close up vision was messed up, and my facial expressions even more messed up, but after a few months post-bleed I was not nearly as bad off as I looked.
I saw my neuro-surgeon for the last time a few months post operation and
I asked him if I could try to get my license back, and he said yes. It was
easier said than done.
First, after several months of waiting, I was given two days of tests at my former hospital, and it was determined that I could potentially drive again, but next I had to take the state MVA test just like for a new driver. (I had driven for 30 years before the AVM) I had to study up for that and when I got to take the test I was ready and aced it good. I was as proud as a 17 year old!( I was 54) The problem was that the state MVA would still not give me a new license because they were concerned about giving returning major brain surgery patients a drivers license too soon. The local head of the MVA and the MVA headquarters fought over whether to
give me another license so soon.(1 year and 4 mos. after surgery.) The head of the local MVA told them I had been passed by an expert and they had better give me
that new license. The local head did not blink and it was issued and I got it that day. I was so happy!
But then a year later, I had a perfect new driver's record, but they still
made me come in for an interview and I was given several computer simulated
driving tests. I was a computer gamer, and I loved the tests, and easily
passed all those. As I was leaving I asked the officer how I had done with
everything, and he told me that I was about as good as it gets for drivers
returning from what I had. They told me that I would not be bothered again.
I hope not!
For all of you wanting to get that license back I wish you the best!