Driving with ADHD

When you have ADHD, a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, impulse control, and time perception. Also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, it doesn’t disqualify you from driving—but it does change how you need to prepare for it. Many people assume ADHD means you can’t handle the demands of heavy vehicle operation. That’s not true. What’s true is that driving with ADHD requires smarter habits, not better luck. You’re not broken. You just need a system that works with your brain, not against it.

Driving an HGV isn’t just about steering and braking. It’s about sustained attention, remembering complex routes, managing fatigue, and reacting quickly to sudden changes. For someone with ADHD, distractions like radio chatter, phone notifications, or even the feel of the seat can pull focus. But here’s what works: intensive driving courses, structured, high-repetition training that builds muscle memory and reduces decision fatigue. These aren’t just for beginners—they’re a game-changer for drivers who need to lock in skills fast. Studies show that people with ADHD who complete focused training programs pass their HGV tests at rates matching or exceeding neurotypical drivers, as long as they avoid cramming and stick to routine.

Another key factor is work schedules, how driving hours are arranged across days and weeks. The 2-2-3 shift pattern, a common HGV rota with two days on, two off, three on, gives you predictable rest blocks. That’s gold for ADHD. Regular sleep, clear start/end times, and no last-minute changes help your brain stay regulated. Avoid erratic hours. They’re not just tiring—they’re dangerous when your attention span is already fighting uphill.

What you wear matters too. driving lesson clothes, clothing that doesn’t restrict movement or distract—no loose sleeves, no bulky jackets, no flip-flops. These aren’t just instructor rules. For someone with ADHD, sensory comfort reduces mental clutter. If your shirt itches or your shoes slip, your brain fixates on it. That’s one less thing to worry about when you’re trying to monitor mirrors, signals, and traffic.

You’ll also find that tools like CB radio slang—like rubber ducky, the flexible antenna on HGVs—aren’t just fun phrases. They’re shorthand. In high-stress moments, clear, simple terms help you communicate faster. Less confusion means less mental load. That’s a win.

There’s no magic fix. But there are proven patterns: routine over willpower, structure over spontaneity, preparation over hope. The posts below show you exactly how other drivers with ADHD have made this work—whether it’s mastering the theory test, handling multiple failures, or finding the best time of day to take their road test. You’re not alone. And you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be prepared.