What is the HGV (LGV) Medical Test?
By law, all persons who want to become a lorry (HGV/LGV) or bus driver must pass a medical test.
This is to ensure you are in good standing health to operate a large vehicle on the public highway.
What does the HGV (LGV) medical involve?
The HGV medical test involves two parts. The first part is a discussion between you and your doctor and the second part is a physical examination.
- Discussion with Doctor – You will discuss any previous and existing medical conditions, including any mental health conditions. Candidates must be open and honest about their health in order to avoid future problems.
- Physical Examination – The doctor will check your general physical health including your eyesight, blood pressure and more. The overall exam takes around 30 minutes. The doctor will then fill out a D4 form and submit it to the DVLR for evaluation.
Where does the medical take place and who with?
Any qualified UK doctor can conduct your medical test. Meaning, you have the option to visit either your local GP service or a private physician. Both options cost money and have their pros & cons:
- Local GP Service: Your GP may be a convenient and familiar person, however they may charge very high amounts for their time. They might also not be experienced in filling out a D4 medical form and which can therefore lead to delays.
- Private Doctor: Typically they have a shorter waiting list and more experience in completing D4 forms. This, of course, will depend on the doctor you see.
HGV Medical D4 Form
How much does a HGV medical typically cost?
A HGV/LGV medical test can cost anywhere between £50 to £150+.
Pricing depends on your local rates and the type of doctor you see (GP vs Private)
What health problems will cause a failed HGV medical test?
As long as you are in reasonably good health, you should not have a problem passing your HGV medical test. The doctor will be looking for certain health aspects, most commonly these include:
- Eyesight: You will need good vision out of each eye. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you will need good eyesight whilst wearing them. The DVLR also asks doctors to check eyesight without your glasses or contact lenses for their own records.
- Blood Pressure: If your blood pressure is too high, this may lead to a failed test. The good news is that once lowered, you can then reapply for another medical examination.
- Diabetes: There will be concerns for drivers who have severe diabetes. Although this condition does not result in automatic disqualification, it is important any Diabetes is managed for safe driving.
- Heart Conditions: The Doctor will check for all signs of potential heart problems. These might include heart murmurs, aneurysms, general pain, family heart conditions and more.
- Neurological Problems: Brain functionality is extremely important for driving. A full neurological examination will include signs for: seizures, blackouts, epilepsy,
- Parkinsons, dementia & alzheimers, stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), Brain Tumours etc.
- Sleep Disorders: The ability to stay awake and fully concentrated is vital for HGV drivers. The doctor will undertake a full sleeping disorder examination.
- Mental Health: The doctor will discuss your current mental health along with any previous conditions.
- Alcohol and Drug Abuse: It is illegal to drive a HGV under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The doctor will ask questions related to your alcohol intake and will look for signs of any drug abuse.
What happens if I fail my HGV medical?
Unfortunately, sometimes people fail their medical test for a number of reasons. This can be due to a simple problem such as eyesight to more complex neurological conditions.
It is important to analyse why you failed the examination and determine if there is a simple fix. For example, you may need a new glasses prescription.
If you failed your medical test, Leicester Driver Training will discuss your Medical results with you and advise on your best course of action.
Information and Useful Notes
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