FAQs – DRIVERS

Medical Conditions

1. What medical conditions could affect my application?

This is a hard question to answer, but if you have any of the following   conditions, it may not be possible for the DVLA to issue your licence:

  • insulin-dependent diabetes
  • progressive degenerative disease
  • epilepsy
  • a physical disability causing problems performing the duties of a vocational driver
  • history of severe mental illness or severe mental handicap
  • history of alcohol or drug abuse
  • poor vision or monocular vision
  • heart problems
  • various neurological or neurosurgical disorders (such as stroke/head injury/blackouts)
  • certain prescribed medications.

If you are sure you want to be a professional driver, it is worth approaching your own GP first to ensure your condition is managed appropriately, and to discuss the likelihood of a successful application.

 

2. How good does my vision have to be to meet DVLA standards?

The requirements are stricter for a HGV/LGV/PCV (Group 2) licence, than for a standard car driver. You will need reasonable vision in both eyes, although it is fine if you need glasses or contact lenses to achieve the standard.

3. Am I allowed to wear glasses or contact lenses for the examination?

If you wear contact lenses, please come prepared to remove them, as we need to test your eyesight both with and without your glasses or contact lenses. However, it is fine to drive with either contacts or glasses, as long as you can meet the vision standards.

4. I had a medical problem in the past. Can I still pass the examination?

Of course this is possible, but it depends on the situation. For instance, if you had a stroke over a year ago, you may still be eligible for a DVLA Group 2 HGV/PCV/LGV licence, as long as there are no residual impairments. It may be worth consulting your own GP for advice before your medical.

5. What if I have diabetes?

If you use insulin you can have a HGV or LGV or PCV licence, but the requirements are strict. You need to get an annual statement from your consultant confirming that you are managing your diabetes well and you are checking your blood sugar levels at least twice a day.

You must also be able to demonstrate that you understand your condition, and use a specific type of machine that remembers 3 months of blood glucose levels.

If you take certain tablets to control diabetes, there are requirements for regular blood sugar checks before and during driving, and to keep a fast-acting carbohydrate source (such as glucose tablets) close at hand while driving.

6. I am or have suffered with anxiety or depression. Can I still drive on a Group 2 licence?

The DVLA states that if there is a more severe anxiety or depression that affects behaviour, causes agitation, or significant concentration or memory problems, or there are any suicidal thoughts, they would suspend (or not issue) a Group 2 licence until there has been stability for 6 months.

Minor variants of this condition shouldn’t affect your ability to drive. Please consult your GP or consultant if this may apply to you

7. What if I have had a fit or have a diagnosis of epilepsy?

If you’ve had a fit or blackout, the guidance is complicated. The sanction varies from no restriction up to a driving ban for 10 years. This depends on the nature of your symptoms and diagnosis. Please see your GP or contact us if you need more information.

8. What happens if I suffer from a heart attack?

You need to have 6 weeks without driving following a heart attack. You will need special tests by a cardiologist including a treadmill test. Any angina symptoms must be controlled.


Your Driving Medical Examination

1.  How often do I need a medical?

On applying for your provisional Group 2 DVLA Licence, every 5 years between age 45-65, then annually from the age of 65.

2. Are there any blood tests or needles?

No.

3. Will the doctor ask to see ID?

Yes. It is a requirement that photo ID (passport or driving licence) is seen before the medical can proceed.

4. Does the doctor need to know what medication I am taking?

Yes. Please bring a list of all your medication, or the boxes.


Licensing and DVLA Questions

1.Where do I get the D4 medical form for my HGV, PCV or LGV medical?

From your training school, the DVLA directly or from your medical assessment centre. You can download a copy here.

2. How long do I have to send the D4 form to the DVLA

You have 4 months from the date of your medical to send it to the DVLA, or it is no longer valid.

3. What should I do if I am diagnosed with a medical problem while I am using a HGV or PCV Group 2 licence?

With any new significant medical condition, you would need to inform the medical department at the DVLA. This is not the case for short-term medical problems, like infections or broken bones, as you would be expected to recover. However, it is your responsibility to ensure you are fit to drive on any given day.