Driver Medicals

HGV/D4 driver medical

This driver medical assesment is mandatory for HGV drivers to assess their fitness for driving:

• Medical history review: the driver’s medical history, including conditions, surgeries, medications, and treatments, is examined.
• Vision assessment: the driver’s vision, encompassing distance and peripheral vision, is checked for impairments affecting safe driving.
• Hearing assessment: evaluation of the driver’s hearing to ensure responsiveness to auditory signals on the road.
• Blood pressure measurement: assessing cardiovascular health through blood pressure checks, as elevated levels pose risks while driving.
• Physical examination: a general physical examination to detect any physical disabilities or conditions impacting driving ability.
• Neurological examination: assessment of the nervous system for signs of conditions that could affect driving skills.
• Medication review: reviewing medications to determine if they could impair driving ability or pose safety risks.
• Additional tests: depending on medical history and assessment, further tests like an electrocardiogram may be required.
• Fitness to drive assessment: an overall evaluation of the driver’s fitness to operate vehicles, particularly HGVs.
• D4 medical certificate: upon meeting the necessary standards, the driver receives this certificate, essential for HGV license application or renewal, indicating medical fitness to drive.

HGV drivers must have medical assesments at the following points in their careers: on first application of provisional driving licence, at age 45, and every 5 years thereafter, then annually at age 65.

PCV/bus/coach driver medical

This driver medical assesment valuates the fitness of drivers operating passenger-carrying vehicles:

• Physical examination: a thorough evaluation of overall health and fitness, including vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and physical condition.
• Vision assessment: testing visual acuity, peripheral vision, and depth perception to ensure safe vehicle operation.
• Hearing assessment: evaluating hearing acuity for effective communication and response to auditory signals.
• Mental health assessment: examining mental well-being and cognitive function to assess driver readiness.
• Review of medical history: assessing past injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions that may impact safe driving.
• Medication review: reviewing medications for potential side effects that could affect job performance.
• Cardiovascular health assessment: checking for conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease due to the demanding nature of the job and long hours.

Taxi/private hire driver medical

Purpose: to assess the medical fitness of drivers operating private hire vehicles or hackney carriages.

Components: eyesight test, blood pressure check, medical history questionnaire, and review of medical records.

Additional checks: depending on medical history, additional tests like ECG may be required.

Ambulance driver medical (D4)

Purpose: evaluates the fitness of ambulance drivers for emergency medical services.

Components: similar to HGV/D4 medical with a focus on emergency response readiness.

Crane operator medical

Purpose: ensures crane operators are physically and mentally capable of safely operating heavy machinery.

Components: physical examination, vision and hearing assessments, musculoskeletal examination, mental health evaluation, and medication review.

Forklift operator medical

Purpose: assess the health and fitness of individuals operating forklifts in industrial settings.

Components: vision assessment, blood pressure check, medical questionnaire, and physical examination.

Train/tram driver medical

Purpose: ensures train and tram operators are physically and mentally fit for safe operation.

Components: comprehensive examination covering physical, visual, auditory, and mental health assessments.

What to bring to your driver medical assessment

Photographic ID

This can be a current UK drivers licence or a current UK passport.

Prescriptions or glasses

Any prescriptions or glasses (reading and distance).

Medical records and current medication

Full medical summary and any medication you are currently taking.

Council taxi form (taxi/private hire)

Each council holds different requirements when applying for a taxi licence. You’ll need to bring a copy of the relevant form for the council you’re applying under.

This form will be completed by our doctor alongside the medical form during your appointment.

Common medical conditions

Several medical conditions may impact eligibility for all types of driver medical assessments. These conditions include:

• Vision impairments: poor vision, including conditions like myopia or astigmatism, may affect the ability to see road signs, pedestrians, or other vehicles clearly, posing risks on the road.
• High blood pressure: elevated blood pressure levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular events while driving, such as heart attacks or strokes, compromising safety on the road.
• Neurological disorders: conditions affecting the nervous system, such as epilepsy or severe migraines, may impair motor skills or cause sudden loss of consciousness, posing serious risks while operating vehicles.
• Cardiovascular diseases: heart conditions, including arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or heart failure, can compromise blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs, impacting the ability to drive safely.
• Mental health disorders: psychological conditions like severe anxiety, depression, or psychosis may affect decision-making abilities and reaction times, potentially endangering the driver and others on the road.
• Substance abuse disorders: dependence on drugs or alcohol can impair cognitive functions, coordination, and judgment, significantly increasing the risk of accidents while driving.
• Chronic medical conditions: persistent health issues such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or musculoskeletal disorders may affect physical mobility, stamina, or overall fitness to operate vehicles safely.

It’s essential to note that while these conditions may affect eligibility, effective management and treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional can often mitigate their impact, allowing individuals to meet the necessary medical standards for driving.