Once you complete your Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) driver training, and pass your tests, you will be able to get out there and spread your trucker wings. However, you must renew certain parts which are vital to your ability to drive professionally.
From completing 35 hours of periodic CPC training every five years to renewing your licence and medical assessment. It must be in your best interest to keep on top of all updates you must make.
The Importance of Licence Renewals
If you do not renew your licence when the expiration date comes, you can face fines of up to £1,000. Licences must be renewed as appearances can change, and it can be hard to determine whether the licence photo is you. This makes it harder for police and enforcement officers to recognise the licence as yours.
Renewal of the HGV Licence
You must renew your medical assessment and licence every five years. This is so the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) can ensure you are still medically fit and well to drive a large vehicle commercially, and that you will not pose a serious risk to other road users.
If you are under 45, you will need to complete a D47PU form (sent to you 56 days before your licence expires)
If you are over 45, you will be sent two forms
- An application for renewal of your lorry and bus entitlement (the D47P form)
HGV Licence Renewal at 65
Once you reach 65 years old, you must renew your licence annually. The DVLA will notify you, once again, 56 days before your licence expiration date.
Waiting For Your Licence
Once you complete these forms, they must be sent back to the DVLA. You are allowed to drive while your licence is being renewed, as long as:
- Your doctor hasn’t told you that you shouldn’t drive
- Your licence is still within its expiration date
- You only drive under the conditions of your previous licence entitlements
- Your licence renewal application is no more than one year old
- Your last licence was not revoked, nor declined for medical reasons
- You’re not currently disqualified, or have not been disqualified as a “high-risk offender”
- You and your doctor consider the section 88 criteria and decide whether you are fit to drive
Other considerations include if you need to update your photo and if your name has changed. In these instances, you will need to supply a passport-type photo with your application, or the original documentation confirming the change of your name.
I Have Recently Been Diagnosed With a Medical Condition, But I Don’t Need to Renew My Licence.
If you have been diagnosed with a medical condition, you must disclose this to the DVLA as soon as you are aware of this diagnosis. They will then assess and determine whether you are fit to drive. You will also need to fill out a form which is sent to the DVLA, but the form type is dependent on the medical condition you have.
For example, if you have recently suffered from a seizure, you must complete a FEP1V form.
Or, if you have been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) then you will need to complete a M1V form.
The government website has a catalogue of medical conditions which you can check. They also give all relevant forms that would need to be completed (depending on the condition). These are only applicable if you have been given a diagnosis for a condition.
Can I Renew My HGV Licence After It Has Expired?
Yes! However, you will need to renew it within two years after it has expired. Otherwise, you will have to apply for a new licence. That is why we suggest that you renew your licence as soon as you are notified by the DVLA.
Looking to Gain Your HGV Licence?
With 2 Start, our team help you through the whole process of your HGV training journey, from booking your medical assessment at a time convenient to you to building your skills and confidence in the vehicle category of your choosing.
You can enquire about our multiple HGV training courses, by filling out our form today.
You can also call our team of advisors on 02392 123 555 between 7 am – 5:30 pm Monday-Friday.
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