Introduction
In the fast-moving UK transport sector, driver medicals including the D4 Medical, HGV Medical, Taxi Medical, and Private Hire Medical are essential to ensure public safety and driver fitness. Whether you’re applying for a Group 2 licence, renewing it, or starting a career as a taxi or private hire driver, understanding the process can save you both time and money. This 2025 guide covers everything you need to know — costs, requirements, differences, myths, and council-specific rules — so you’re fully prepared.
What Is a D4 Medical?
A D4 Medical is a mandatory health assessment for professional drivers operating lorries (HGV), buses, coaches, taxis, and private hire vehicles. It’s conducted using the D4 form issued by the DVLA and ensures you are medically fit to drive.
When is it required?
• First licence application for Group 2 vehicles.
• At age 45, then every 5 years until 65.
• Annually after 65.
Typical checks include: vision, blood pressure, medical history, physical examination, neurological review, and in some cases, a urine test.
2025 Cost Breakdown
| Type of Medical | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| D4 Medical | £49.99 – £100 | Price varies by provider & location. |
| HGV Medical (D4 Form) | £40 – £80 (Private Clinic) / £150 – £270 (NHS GP) | Private providers are faster & cheaper. |
| Taxi / Private Hire Medical | £40 – £90 | May differ by local council rules. |
Money-Saving Tips:
• Choose reputable private clinics like Driver Medical Test for prices as low as £45, often including the eye test at no extra charge
• NHS GPs can be more expensive due to administrative costs.
• Self-employed drivers can claim the cost as a work-related expense on tax returns.
HGV Medical vs D4 Medical
Many drivers wonder about the difference between an HGV Medical and a D4 Medical. The answer is — they are essentially the same.
• HGV Medical is the term used for Group 2 licence drivers, but it is carried out using the D4 form.
• Includes:
• Medical history review
• Vision and blood pressure check
• Neurological and mental health screening
• General physical examination
After completion, the doctor signs your D4 form, which you submit to the DVLA with your licence application
or renewal.
Taxi & Private Hire Medicals (Including Local Council Requirements)
If you’re becoming a taxi or private hire driver, you’ll likely need a Taxi Medical similar to a D4 Medical
Examples of council-specific requirements:
• [Wolverhampton Taxi Medical] – Full medical records required, you can get this from your GP and access via the NHS application on your mobile phone
• [South Holland Taxi Medical] – Summary care record required, you can get this from your GP or access via the NHS application on your mobile phone.
• [Charnwood Council Taxi Medical] – Summary care record required, you can get this from your GP or access via the NHS application on your mobile phone.
• [South Kesteven Taxi Medical] – Full medical records required, you can get this from your GP or access via the NHS application on your mobile phone
For more information, click here
Myths vs Facts
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| NHS GPs are always better for accuracy. | Private clinics have GMC-registered doctors and meet the same DVLA standards. |
| Cheap clinics cut corners. | Affordable providers like ‘Driver Medical Test include full checks and eye tests. |
| Everyone must do annual medicals. | Only required annually after age 65. |
Preparation Checklist for Your Medical
Bring the following to your appointment:
• Valid photo ID
• Proof of address
• Current glasses/contact lens prescription (if applicable)
• List of current medications
• D4 form (download from DVLA website) Click here
Final Tips for 2025
• Always confirm the latest DVLA or local council requirements before booking.
• Choose clinics offering eye tests included and instant form completion.
• Send your completed form and licence to DVLA, Swansea SA99 1BR without delay to avoid renewal delays.
Conclusion
Whether you need a D4 Medical, HGV Medical, Taxi Medical, or Private Hire Medical, understanding the process can save you stress, time, and money. In 2025, private clinics often provide the best balance between cost and speed, while still meeting all DVLA requirements. Always book with a reputable provider, bring the correct documents, and keep track of your renewal dates.
FAQs – 2025 UK Driver Medicals
1. What is a D4 Medical?
A D4 Medical is a mandatory health check required by the DVLA for professional drivers,
including HGV, bus, taxi, and private hire drivers. It ensures you are medically fit to operate
Group 2 vehicles. The examination is recorded on the D4 form.
2. How much does a D4 Medical cost in 2025?
In 2025, a D4 Medical typically costs between £49.99 and £100, depending on the provider
and location. Private clinics like Driver Medical Test often offer packages starting from £45 with no hiddenfees
3. Is an HGV Medical different from a D4 Medical?
No — the HGV Medical is carried out using the D4 form, so both refer to the same medical
process for Group 2 drivers.
4. How often do I need a D4 Medical?
• First licence application: Required.
• At age 45, then every 5 years until 65.
•Annually after 65.
5. Do taxi and private hire drivers need a D4 Medical?
Yes. Most councils require a Taxi Medical or Private Hire Medical similar to a D4 examination.
Local council rules (e.g., Wolverhampton Taxi Medical, South Holland Taxi Medical,
Charnwood Council Taxi Medical, South Kesteven Taxi Medical) may add extra
requirements.
6. What documents should I bring to my medical appointment?
• Valid photo ID
• Proof of address
• Glasses/contact lens prescription (if applicable)
• Medication list
•D4 form – You can order from DVLA website or Click here
7. Can I claim the cost of my D4 Medical on tax?
Yes. If you are self-employed or the cost is work-related, you can usually claim it as a
tax-deductible expense.
8. Where can I book the cheapest D4 Medical in the UK?
Private clinics like Driver Medical Test often offer competitive rates and include the vision test in the price. NHS GPs may charge significantly more.
