Learn the complete driver medical checklist UK professionals need for HGV, PCV, bus, and taxi license applications. Understand medical requirements, documents to bring, vision standards, and how to book your driver medical exam quickly and affordably.
Introduction
If you’re applying for or renewing an HGV, PCV, bus, or taxi license, you are required to complete a driver medical to confirm that you are fit to drive safely. This medical exam follows DVLA Group 2 standards, and it must be performed by a GMC-registered doctor. Knowing exactly what to expect can reduce stress, help you prepare properly, and ensure a smooth assessment.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete driver medical checklist in the UK, including documents to bring, medical conditions assessed, vision and blood pressure requirements, and how to make the process quick and straightforward.
We offer this service, and our doctors are experienced in completing the DVLA D4 and taxi medical forms accurately and efficiently.
Why Driver Medicals Are Required in the UK
Commercial and professional drivers spend long hours on the road and must meet strict medical guidelines to ensure public safety. The DVLA requires proof that the driver is:
- Physically fit
- Mentally fit
- Able to react safely in all driving conditions
- Free from health conditions that may impair driving abilities
This applies to:
| Licence Type | Examples | Requires Medical? |
|---|---|---|
| HGV (LGV) | Class 2 / Class 1 Lorry Drivers | Yes |
| PCV | Bus and Coach Drivers | Yes |
| Taxi / Private Hire | Uber, PCO, Local Council Licensed Drivers | Yes |
| Renewals Age 45+ | All Group 2 Licences | Yes (every 5 years, then yearly from 65) |
Understanding the driver medical checklist UK helps ensure you are fully ready before your appointment.
Driver Medical Checklist UK: What to Bring
Before attending your medical exam, make sure you have the correct documents and information.
Bring the following:
- Photo ID (Driving License or Passport)
- Your D4 Medical Form (we can provide this if needed)
- List of current medications
- Your glasses/contact lenses (if worn)
- Most recent GP medical history (if available)
- Any specialist letters for long-term conditions
- Your urine sample (for diabetes screening)
Having these items ready avoids unnecessary delays.
What the Doctor Will Assess During Your Medical
The medical assessment is straightforward, typically lasting 15–20 minutes, depending on your health history.
The examination follows the official DVLA Group 2 driver medical standards.
Key Areas Checked
- Vision and eyesight test
- Blood pressure measurement
- Height and weight (for BMI calculation)
- Urine test for diabetes
- General physical examination
- Medical history review
- Mental health & neurological conditions screening
The aim is not to disqualify drivers but to ensure it is safe for you to hold a professional driving license.
Vision Requirements for Drivers
The vision test is an essential part of the driver medical checklist in the UK.
To pass, you must be able to:
- Read a number plate from 20 meters
- Have a visual acuity of at least 6/7.5 (0.8) in your better eye
- Have at least 6/60 (0.1) in your weaker eye
- Use corrective lenses if needed.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses daily, bring them to the appointment.
Blood Pressure Requirements
The DVLA sets limits to ensure your cardiovascular system can handle long periods of driving.
- Drivers must have blood pressure < 179/99.
- If your BP is too high, the medical may be delayed until controlled.
- Bring details of any medication you take for high blood pressure.
Tip: Avoid caffeine, smoking, or energy drinks 2–3 hours before your exam.
Common Medical Conditions Reviewed
During your exam, the doctor will ask about certain medical conditions that may affect driving.
| Condition | Why It Matters | What Helps Approval |
|---|---|---|
| Diabetes | Can cause low blood sugar | Regular monitoring & medication stability |
| Sleep Apnoea | Can cause tiredness while driving | CPAP or treatment compliance |
| Heart Conditions | Can affect alertness & reaction | Specialist follow-up history |
| Epilepsy | Risk of seizures while driving | Seizure-free period required |
| Mental Health | Can affect judgement or focus | Stable condition & GP letters |
Being honest is crucial; withholding health information is a legal offence.
Tips for Preparing for Your Driver Medical
Follow these steps to help your medical run smoothly:
- Sleep well the night before
- Hydrate properly
- Avoid caffeine for at least 2 hours before
- Bring all medication names and doses.
- Wear or bring your corrective eyewear.
- Bring your urine sample.
This ensures accurate and quick processing.
How Long Is the Medical Valid For?
- From age 45–65: Every 5 years
- From age 65+: Annually
- Taxi medical validity varies depending on local council rules
How We Make the Process Easier
We provide a straightforward, professional service:
- GMC-registered doctors
- DVLA-compliant medical assessments
- D4 Form completion included
- Urgent same-day & evening appointments available
- Nationwide UK clinics
We ensure your driver medical checklist UK is fully completed with accuracy and efficiency.
Why Choose Us
- Fast appointments
- Minimal waiting times
- Competitive pricing
- Experienced driver medical specialists
- Friendly and supportive staff
We make sure you are confident and fully prepared.
Final Thought
Understanding the driver medical checklist in the UK helps ensure your medical goes smoothly and your license application or renewal is processed without delay. With the right preparation and a trusted medical provider, the entire process is simple, quick, and stress-free.
We are here to help you complete your driver medical professionally and efficiently.
Top Services
- Driver Medical
- HGV/Lorry Drivers (HGV medical)
- Taxi Drivers (Hackney Carriage & Private Hire Medical)
- Private Hire
- PCV/Bus Drivers (PCV medical)
- PCO Medical
- Bus Medical Service
- Motorhome Medical
- Ambulance Medical
- Forklift Driver Medical
- TFL Medical
Top Links
- Book Liverpool City Council Private Hire Medicals
- Book Your Liverpool HGV Medical with Ease and Confidence
- Liverpool D4 Medical at Precision Driver Medicals
- HGV License Medical in Liverpool | Affordable Driver Medicals
- Taxi Medical Exam Liverpool
- HGV License Renewal Liverpool
- Our Google Reviews
- Area Coverage
- Home
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10 Important Links for Driver Medicals UK
- DVLA – D4 Medical Examination Report
→ Official D4 form for HGV/PCV drivers. - DVLA – Driving Licences for Lorry, Bus and Coach Drivers
→ Requirements for becoming a lorry or bus driver. - TfL – Private Hire and Taxi Driver Medical Requirements
→ TfL’s official medical guidelines for PCO/private hire drivers. - DVLA – Eyesight Rules for Drivers
→ Legal eyesight standards for all UK drivers. - DVLA – Medical Conditions and Driving
→ Guidance on how medical conditions affect driving eligibility. - NHS – Medical Exams for Professional Drivers
→ NHS overview of driver medical exams. - Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA)
→ Regulator for driving and vehicle safety standards in the UK. - General Medical Council (GMC)
→ Authority for registered medical professionals in the UK. - Gov.uk – Renew Driving Licence
→ Process for renewing a UK driving licence. - National Register of LGV Instructors (NRI)
→ Training and standards for LGV/HGV instructors.
