Driver Medical Test
Why HGV Drivers Need a D4 Medical: Full Guide & Requirement
Why Do HGV Drivers Need a D4 Medical?
Driving Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in the UK is a demanding responsibility that requires excellent health and full concentration. As a result, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) requires HGV drivers to complete a D4 medical examination to prove they’re medically fit to operate large vehicles.
Whether you’re a new applicant or renewing your licence, you must submit the D4 form, as it plays a vital role in your application.
Driving Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in the UK is a demanding responsibility that requires excellent health and full concentration. As a result, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) requires HGV drivers to complete a D4 medical examination to prove they’re medically fit to operate large vehicles.
Whether you’re a new applicant or renewing your licence, you must submit the D4 form, as it plays a vital role in your application.
What Is the D4 Medical Form?
The D4 medical form is a standard form provided by the DVLA that records your medical assessment results. A GMC-registered doctor must complete the form, and you must submit it with your licence application or renewal.
The form includes sections covering:
- Vision
- Medical history
- Physical health
- Medications
- Conditions affecting driving safety
When Is a D4 Medical Required?
• Applying for a new HGV (Category C, C1, or C+E) or PCV (D, D1) licence
• Renewing your Group 2 licence at the age of 45 or above
• Renewing your licence every 5 years between ages 45 and 65
• Renewing your licence annually if you are 65 or older
• Converting a car licence to a Group 2 licence for professional driving
- Applying for a new HGV (Category C, C1, or C+E) or PCV (D, D1) licence
- Renewing your Group 2 licence at the age of 45 or above
- Renewing your licence every 5 years between ages 45 and 65
- Renewing your licence annually if you are 65 or older
- Converting a car licence to a Group 2 licence for professional driving
What Happens During a D4 Medical?
The D4 medical exam usually takes about 20 minutes and involves:
1. Vision Test
- Done with and without glasses/contact lenses
- Uses a Snellen chart
- Checks for clarity, field of vision, and corrective lenses
2. Health History Review
Doctor will ask about:
- Epilepsy
- Heart conditions
- Sleep disorders (e.g. sleep apnoea)
- Mental health
- Diabetes
- Alcohol/drug use
3. Physical Examination
- Blood pressure check
- Neurological reflexes
- Cardiovascular and muscular evaluation
- Review of any ongoing medication
What Documents Do You Need for Your D4 Medical?
To make the process smooth, bring:
- Valid photo ID (e.g., driving licence or passport)
- Any glasses/contact lenses you use for driving
- Your prescription if applicable
- A list of medications you’re taking
- Your DVLA D4 form (can be downloaded here and printed or provided by the clinic)
At Driver Medical Test we provide the D4 form and help complete it correctly.
How Long Is the D4 Medical Form Valid?
Therefore, you must submit it to the DVLA within this period to avoid delays or re-testing.
Once completed, your D4 medical form is valid for 4 months from the date of the exam. Therefore, you must submit it to the DVLA within this period to avoid delays or re-testing.
For renewals:
- Every 5 years from age 45
- Annually after 65
What If You Have a Pre-Existing Condition?
Having a medical condition doesn’t always mean you can’t get a licence. The DVLA will assess your case based on:
- Condition type
- Control and treatment (e.g., controlled diabetes or hypertension)
- Risk to safe driving
You may be asked for additional documents, such as reports from a GP or specialist.
Book Your D4 Medical Today
So, don’t wait for your renewal deadline to creep up. Instead, get your medical done now — fast, affordable, and DVLA-compliant.
Firstly, To make things easier, book your D4 medical appointment today with Driver Medical Test and stay road-legal without the stress.
FAQs About D4 Medicals for HGV Drivers
1. Do I need a D4 medical for a car licence?
No. D4 medicals are only required for Group 2 licence categories such as HGV and PCV.
2. Can my GP fill out the D4 form?
Yes, but many GPs are unavailable or charge more. Private clinics like Driver Medical Test
offer faster, more affordable services.
How often will I need to retake the medical?
• At age 45, then every 5 years
• From age 65, every year
3. Can I wear glasses during the eyesight test?
Yes, but you must meet the minimum eyesight standard with correction.
4. Why Choose Driver Medical Test for Your HGV Medical?
At Driver Medical Test, we make it easy for HGV drivers to complete their D4 medical without delays or high costs.
What we offer:
• GMC-registered doctors
• Various clinics in UK cities
• Evening and weekend availability
• D4 form provided and completed on-site
• Affordable prices (often cheaper than GPs and other providers)
• Fast turnaround for urgent renewals
• Free Re-Test two times, if you fail
Our clinics are trusted by HGV, PCV, taxi, and private hire drivers across the UK.
Do I need a D4 medical for a car licence?
No. D4 medicals are only required for Group 2 licence categories such as HGV and PCV.
Can my GP fill out the D4 form?
Yes, but many GPs are unavailable or charge more. Private clinics like Driver Medical Test
offer faster, more affordable services.
How often will I need to retake the medical?
• At age 45, then every 5 years
• From age 65, every year
Can I wear glasses during the eyesight test?
Yes, but you must meet the minimum eyesight standard with correction.
Why Choose Driver Medical Test for Your HGV Medical?
At Driver Medical Test, we make it easy for HGV drivers to complete their D4 medical without delays or high costs.
What we offer:
• GMC-registered doctors
• Various clinics in UK cities
• Evening and weekend availability
• D4 form provided and completed on-site
• Affordable prices (often cheaper than GPs and other providers)
• Fast turnaround for urgent renewals
• Free Re-Test two times, if you fail
Our clinics are trusted by HGV, PCV, taxi, and private hire drivers across the UK.
