Return to Driving

You must:

• Be legally able to drive with a valid driver’s license or permit.
• Have stopped use of pain medicine for at least 24 hours.
  
  • Common opioids: morphine, hydromorphone, oxycodone (Oxaydo, OxyCONTIN, Roxicodone, RoxyBond, Xtampza ER), oxycodone and acetaminophen (Endocet, Nalocet, Prolate, Percocet – this drug is no longer made but will be distributed until supplies end).
  • Other medicines for sedation: diazepam (Valium)
  • Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure about your medicines.
• Have all assistive devices removed and have adequate range of motion.
  Your healthcare provider must clear you from the following. You must no longer need to wear:
  
  • Post-surgical hinged knee brace
  • Cast restricting elbow motion (long-arm immobilization)
  • Sling on the dominant arm
  You must have the required upper body active range of motion to drive. You must be able to:
  
  • Elevate your shoulder forward and to the side to 90°
  • Bend your elbow to 75°
• Have adequate strength in your legs.
  
  • Your healthcare provider must give you a score of at least 4 out of 5 on a manual muscle strength test of major leg muscles (quadriceps, hamstrings and calves).
  • Perform 8 sit-to-stands in 10 seconds.

The time it takes after surgery or injury to return to driving may vary. These recommended criteria are based on current research. Talk with your healthcare provider for full clearance before driving again.