HGV medicals in Newcastle for lorry drivers

Which HGV licence categories does the medical cover?

One D4 covers all the categories you apply for at the same time, so there's no need for a separate medical if you plan to move from Class 2 to Class 1 later in the same period.

What your HGV medical involves

• An eyesight test for each eye against the Group 2 standard
• A field of vision check
• Blood pressure measurement
• A review of your medical history and medication
• The D4 completed and signed by a GMC-registered doctor

The doctor will ask about conditions that are relevant to professional drivers, such as diabetes, sleep problems, heart conditions and anything affecting your eyesight. Be open at this stage. An accurate form is less likely to be queried by the DVLA, which saves time later. Most appointments take around 20 to 30 minutes.

Who our HGV medicals are for

New lorry drivers

If you're starting HGV training, the D4 comes first. The DVLA needs it with your D2 application before adding provisional lorry entitlement to your licence, and you need provisional entitlement before you can take your theory tests.

Drivers renewing at 45 and over

Lorry entitlement is renewed at 45, every five years until 65 and then annually. Each renewal needs a new D4. Book a few weeks ahead of your expiry date so the application reaches the DVLA in good time. Our D4 renewal service is designed for this.

C1 holders at 70

Drivers who passed their car test before 1997 often hold C1 automatically. To keep it after 70, a D4 is required.

Hauliers and training providers

Firms with several drivers to put through medicals can book them together through our operator and fleet service, with one point of contact for the whole group.

Health conditions and HGV licences

Many lorry drivers hold a Group 2 licence while managing a long-term condition. Treated high blood pressure, diabetes controlled by diet or certain tablets, and sleep apnoea that is effectively treated are all common among working drivers. Other conditions, such as insulin-treated diabetes, seizures or recent heart problems, have stricter rules and the DVLA assesses each case individually. The doctor at PCV Medicals records your history accurately and explains whether the DVLA is likely to ask for more information. Our guide to medical conditions and Group 2 licences gives an overview before you book.

Why lorry drivers choose PCV Medicals

The appointment is built around the D4, so nothing is missed and nothing is charged twice. The eyesight test is part of the fixed fee, the price is confirmed before you book, and the doctor tells you at the appointment if anything might need further assessment. Appointments are in Newcastle upon Tyne, convenient for drivers working from the Team Valley, the A1 and A19 corridors and the Port of Tyne.

How much is an HGV medical?

PCV Medicals charges a fixed fee for each HGV medical, stated in your quote before you book. Some employers pay for or reimburse the medical, especially for trainee drivers, so ask before you book. See pricing for what is included.

Booking your HGV medical in Newcastle

Fill in the quote form with the categories you're applying for and your preferred date. PCV Medicals will reply by email with your price and available appointments. After the medical, send the D4 to the DVLA with form D2, making sure it arrives within four months of the doctor's signature.