Understanding Medical Requirements for Drivers
The DVLA and other transport authorities require professional drivers to meet specific medical standards to continue driving. These standards assess conditions such as:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Heart disease or previous strokes
- Epilepsy or seizure disorders
- Neurological conditions
- Vision impairments
- Mental health conditions that may affect driving ability
What happens if a medical exam raises concerns?
- Temporary suspension- if a medical condition is deemed serious and poses an immediate risk to road safety, the DVLA may temporarily suspend your licence while further assessments are carried out
- Further Medical Evidence Required– in some cases, drivers can provide additional medical reports from specialists to prove they are fit to drive
- Licence withdrawal with review option- if a driver fails to meet the health requirements, their licence may be revoked but they can reapply once their condition is under control
- Restricted or conditional licence– some drivers may be eligible for a restricted licence that allows them to drive under specific conditions
What to do if your licence is at risk
- Consult your doctor– work with your GP or a specialist to understand your condition and whether treatment can help restore your fitness to drive
- Submit additional medical reports- provide further evidence to demonstrate that your condition is stable and does not impair your driving ability
- Request a medical appeal- If you believe your licence has been unfairly revoked, you can appeal to the relevant licensing authority with supporting medical evidence
- Explore alternative licences- in some cases, drivers may be eligible for a different category of licence, allowing them to continue working in a modified role
How to prevent future medical issues affecting your licence
Being proactive about your health can help ensure you remain fit to drive and avoid medical suspensions. Here are some key strategies.
- Regular check-ups– stay ahead of medical issues by getting routine screenings especially for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and vision problems
- Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle- eating a balanced diet, exercising and managing stress can prevent many common medical conditions that impact driving ability
- Take medications as prescribed– if you have a chronic condition, follow your doctor’s advice and keep your condition well managed.
- Keep records of medical treatments– maintain documentation of any treatments, test results or specialist evaluations that could support your case if a medical issue arises
Book Your HGV Medical Today
Check your current medical certificate today and schedule your next HGV medical assessment with a registered medical examiner. Visit MotorMedicals.com to book your D4 medical examination with a qualified healthcare professional.
