DVLA Medical Requirements for Lorry Drivers: The Complete Guide
Holding a Category C or CE licence means meeting stricter medical standards than ordinary car drivers. The DVLA requires regular medical examinations to ensure you are fit to operate large vehicles safely. Here is everything you need to know.
When You Need a Medical
You must have a DVLA-approved medical examination in the following situations:
- First application — when applying for a provisional lorry licence
- Age 45 — renewal required, then every five years
- Age 65 — renewal required annually from this point
- After certain medical events — heart attack, stroke, diabetes diagnosis, epilepsy, or any condition that could affect your ability to drive safely
The D4 Medical Examination
The examination uses the D4 form, which your doctor completes. The assessment covers:
- Vision — including visual acuity, field of vision, and colour perception
- Cardiovascular health — blood pressure, heart rhythm, history of heart conditions
- Neurological conditions — epilepsy, blackouts, severe head injuries
- Diabetes — type and control method, HbA1c levels
- Mental health — conditions that could impair judgement or concentration
- Sleep disorders — particularly sleep apnoea, which is common among professional drivers
- Drug and alcohol history
Eyesight Standards
The eyesight standard for lorry drivers is stricter than for car drivers:
- Visual acuity of at least 6/7.5 in the better eye and 6/60 in the other eye
- You can wear glasses or contact lenses to meet this standard
- A field of vision of at least 160 degrees horizontally
- No significant colour blindness (though minor deficiency is usually acceptable)
Common Conditions That Affect Your Licence
Diabetes
If you manage diabetes with insulin, you must meet specific criteria including regular blood glucose monitoring and no severe hypoglycaemic episodes in the past 12 months. You will need to provide three months of blood glucose readings with each renewal.
Sleep Apnoea
Obstructive sleep apnoea is increasingly common. If diagnosed, you must demonstrate that it is adequately controlled, usually through CPAP treatment, before the DVLA will issue or renew your licence.
Heart Conditions
After a heart attack or cardiac procedure, you will typically need to wait at least six weeks before driving an HGV again. Some conditions require ongoing monitoring.
Cost and Where to Get Your Medical
The D4 medical is not available on the NHS — you must pay for it privately. Costs typically range from £50 to £120 depending on the practice. Some occupational health providers and dedicated driver medical centres offer competitive rates.
Your recruitment agency may contribute to medical costs, especially if they are placing you in a long-term role. Always ask about this when registering.
Tips for a Smooth Medical
- Book with a doctor who regularly conducts D4 examinations
- Bring your glasses or contact lenses, plus a spare pair
- Have a list of all current medications ready
- If you have a medical condition, bring relevant hospital letters or test results
- Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, and caffeine before the appointment
- Allow up to an hour for the full examination
At TRS Recruit, we can advise on local medical providers in Bristol, Plymouth, Exeter, and across the South West who offer quick and affordable D4 examinations.