What Is a D4 Medical Form?

If you drive lorries, buses, or coaches for a living, you have probably heard of the D4 medical form. It is one of those bits of paperwork that sounds more complicated than it actually is, so let us walk you through everything you need to know.

What is a D4 medical form?

The D4 is a medical examination report form issued by the DVLA. It is the form your doctor completes during your driver medical to confirm that you meet the medical standards for holding a Group 2 driving licence. Group 2 covers categories C, C+E, D, and D+E, which means HGV drivers, LGV drivers, PCV drivers, and bus drivers all need one.

The form itself covers your general health, eyesight, blood pressure, and any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely. Your doctor fills it in during your appointment, and you then send the completed form to the DVLA along with your licence application or renewal.

You can download a blank copy of the D4 form from the GOV.UK website for free. But downloading the form is only the first step: you still need a face-to-face medical examination with a registered doctor.

Who needs a D4 medical?

You need a D4 medical if you are applying for or renewing a Group 2 driving licence. This includes:

• HGV drivers (category C and C+E)
• LGV drivers (the same examination as HGV)
• PCV drivers (category D and D+E, including buses and coaches)
• Taxi and private hire drivers (some councils accept the D4; others have their own forms)

If you are under 45, you need a D4 medical when you first apply for your Group 2 licence. After 45, you need one every five years. From age 65, you need one every year.

Where do you get a D4 medical?

This is where many drivers hit a wall. You might assume your GP will do it, but many GP surgeries in South Wales have stopped offering D4 medicals altogether. Those that still do often charge between £100 and £200, with long waiting times.

Specialist driver medical clinics like SWDM exist specifically to carry out D4 examinations. We have seven clinics across South Wales and Bristol, with appointments available most days of the week, including same-day availability at many locations.

What happens at a D4 medical examination?

The examination is straightforward and nothing to worry about. Dr. Al-Hassan will check:

• Eyesight - You will be asked to read a number plate at a set distance (20 metres). If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them along.
• Blood pressure - A standard blood pressure reading using a cuff on your arm.
• Urine test - A simple dipstick test to check for sugar and protein.
• General health - Your doctor will ask about your medical history, any medications you take, and any conditions that might affect your driving.
• BMI - Your height and weight will be recorded.

The whole process is thorough but unhurried. Our patients regularly tell us that Dr. Al-Hassan puts them at ease and takes the time to explain everything clearly.

How much does a D4 medical cost?

This is one of the most common questions we hear. The cost varies depending on where you go.

At SWDM, the D4 medical is a straightforward, fixed price with no hidden extras. The price includes the examination, the completed D4 form, and any follow-up questions you might have afterwards.

We believe in offering a fair price for a thorough, unhurried examination. We do not cut corners, and we do not rush you through the door.

What to bring to your D4 medical

To make your appointment as smooth as possible, please bring:

• Your current driving licence (photocard)
• A list of any medications you take
• Your glasses or contact lenses (if you use them for driving)
• Details of your GP surgery (name and address)

You do not need to bring the D4 form itself. We have copies at all our clinics.

How long does a D4 medical take?

A D4 medical appointment at SWDM typically takes around 10 minutes. We know your time is valuable, especially if you are fitting the appointment around work. We aim to see every patient on time and get you on your way as quickly as possible, without cutting corners on thoroughness.

If you have a more complex medical history, the appointment may take a little longer. Dr. Al-Hassan will always take the time needed to complete the examination properly.

Dr. Al-Hassan

Medical Director & DVLA-approved examiner

Dr. Al-Hassan is a GMC-registered doctor and the Medical Director of South Wales Driver Medicals. He has performed thousands of DVLA D4 medicals for HGV, PCV, LGV, and taxi drivers, and is known by his patients for being thorough, unhurried, and putting people at ease.

GMC #6487521 · Verify on the GMC register

Ready to book your D4 medical?

Booking is simple. Choose your nearest clinic, pick a time that works for you, and we will take care of the rest. With seven locations across South Wales and Bristol, there is always a clinic nearby.