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If you’re planning to start your journey towards becoming a professional HGV driver, one of the very first steps is completing your driver medical. At 2 Start Training, we understand that this part of the process can feel a little daunting, so we’ve put together a simple guide to explain what the HGV medical is, why it’s required, and what you can expect on the day, including how long does it last.
Why do you need a HGV medical?
Driving a heavy goods vehicle comes with a high level of responsibility. The DVLA therefore requires all new HGV drivers to undergo a medical assessment to ensure the safety of all road users. This medical is there to confirm you are fit to drive a large vehicle safely and without any risk to yourself or other road users.
The D4 medical must be completed before you can apply for your license, and is often the starting point for your HGV training journey. You will need to repeat this every time you renew your licence and then annually from the age of 65. If your medical status changes at any point, you are also required to inform the DVLA of such changes.
What does the HGV medical involve?
Your medical isn’t something to be nervous about. In most cases, it’s a simple health check to make sure you’re medically fit to drive. Typically, your medical assessment will cover your previous medical history, an eye test, a blood pressure check and a general health examination. The doctor may ask you:
- If you have any current or past medical conditions
- If you are on any prescription medications.
- What your lifestyle is like e.g alcohol use, or smoking
Good eyesight is crucial for safe driving. The doctor will check your vision with and without glasses/contact lenses, including your peripheral vision. As well as taking a simple blood pressure reading to ensure it’s within safe limits.
As for the general health exam, this normally covers: height and weight measurements, and coordination tests.
What documents do you need to take?
When attending your medical, make sure you bring:
- D4 Medical Form (downloaded from the DVLA website)
- Photographic ID (such as your driving licence or passport)
- Any prescription glasses/contact lenses you use
- A list of any current medication
The doctor will complete the D4 form during your appointment, which you’ll then send to the DVLA along with your provisional HGV licence application.
How long does it take?
Your medical will normally take around 30 minutes.
After the appointment, your completed D4 form is ready for submission, moving you one step closer to starting your HGV training.
How can we help?
At 2 Start, we’re here to support you through every step of your training journey. Most of our packages include us even booking your medical assessment on your behalf. This means you don’t need to stress about what to do, as we can do it for you.
We can additionally help you to:
- Understand the paperwork and process for your medical
- Advise you on where to attend for your HGV medical assessment
- Guide you through the next steps of applying for your provisional licence and booking your training
Overall, the HGV medical is nothing to worry about. It’s a simple routine check to keep both drivers and the public safe!
If you’re ready to begin your HGV journey, or if you have questions about the medical process, contact our friendly team at 2 Start Training today. We’ll make sure you get the right support from day one.
