When can I drive after joint replacement surgery?

Getting back behind the wheel is one of the most commonly asked questions by patients recovering from joint replacement surgery.

In this article, consultant orthopaedic surgeon Professor Kuntal Patel outlines when it’s safe to drive again after surgery on the hip, knee, or shoulder and how to ensure you return to the road safely.

When is it safe to drive after joint replacement?

The ability to drive after joint replacement depends on the type of joint replaced and whether it was on your right or left side.

• Hip replacement: most patients are advised to wait 6 weeks before driving.
• Knee replacement: between six to eight weeks, depending on recovery and mobility of the knee.
• Shoulder replacement: from six to eight weeks, once the arm has sufficient movement and strength to control the steering wheel safely.

For right-sided replacements, particularly in patients with manual cars, additional caution is needed as the right leg is responsible for both braking and accelerating.

Always discuss with your surgeon or physiotherapist before making the decision to drive again.

What are the legal and safety requirements?

You are legally responsible for ensuring you are medically fit to drive. The DVLA does not need to be notified for routine joint replacements unless advised by your doctor due to complications or other medical issues.

However, it is essential that:

• You inform your car insurance provider that you have undergone joint replacement surgery.
• Your medical team confirms you are fit to drive.

Driving before you are medically ready may invalidate your insurance and pose a safety risk.

How do I know if I’m ready to drive?

Before driving again, you should be able to:

• Get in and out of the car independently and sit comfortably in the driver's seat.
• Control the vehicle without hesitation or pain, particularly the pedals (for lower limb surgeries) or steering (for upper limb surgeries).
• Perform an emergency stop confidently and safely.
• Have sufficient coordination, strength, and range of motion to handle all driving tasks.

Your physiotherapist may carry out a reaction time assessment, particularly after knee or hip surgery, to ensure you're ready to return safely.

Tips for a safe return to driving

• Complete your rehabilitation exercises consistently to regain mobility and strength.
• Practise entering and exiting your vehicle before attempting to drive.
• Start with short, familiar journeys on quiet roads and progress as your confidence grows.
• Avoid driving if taking opioids or sedating medication, as these can impair concentration and reaction time.

If you have any doubts, it’s better to wait until you feel completely confident in your ability.

Driving after joint replacement surgery is possible and safe when approached with care and patience.

If you’re considering joint replacement surgery or recovering from one and have concerns about driving, consult with Professor Patel via his Top Doctors profile for individualised advice.