PCV Medical: What to Expect, What It Costs, and How to Book

If you're applying for or renewing a PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) licence, you'll need a medical examination before the DVLA will issue or renew it. Whether you drive a single-decker bus, a double-decker, or a 70-seat coach, the process is the same.

This guide walks you through exactly what a PCV medical involves, how it compares to the HGV medical, and how to get yours done quickly and affordably across South Wales and Bristol.

What is a PCV medical?

A PCV medical is a health assessment required by the DVLA for anyone who wants to hold a Category D licence, which covers buses and coaches carrying more than eight passengers. The examination is carried out using the official DVLA D4 medical form and must be completed by a registered doctor.

You'll need a PCV medical:

• When you first apply for your provisional PCV licence (before starting your Driver CPC training).
• At every renewal from age 45, then every five years until age 65.
• Every year once you turn 65.
• If the DVLA requests one due to a medical condition or notification.

The purpose is straightforward: to confirm you're medically fit to carry passengers safely. The DVLA sets the standards, and your doctor assesses you against them.

For a deeper look at the form itself, see our guide to the D4 medical form.

PCV vs HGV medical - any difference?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer is simple: they are the same examination.

The DVLA D4 form covers both Group 2 licence categories, which means:

• Category C (HGV/LGV - lorries and large goods vehicles)
• Category D (PCV - buses and coaches)

The medical standards are identical. The eyesight requirements are identical. The form is identical. Whether you're a coach driver heading to Wembley or an HGV driver delivering to a depot, your doctor completes the same D4 assessment.

So if you already hold an HGV licence and you're adding PCV entitlement (or vice versa), you won't need a separate medical. One D4 covers both.

You can read more about the HGV side on our HGV medical page.

What the examination involves

The PCV medical is thorough but straightforward. Here's what your doctor will check during the appointment:

• Eyesight - You'll need to read a number plate at 20 metres (with glasses or contact lenses if you normally wear them). Your doctor will also assess your visual acuity and visual fields.
• Blood pressure - Checked to ensure it falls within the DVLA's acceptable range for Group 2 drivers.
• Urine test - A simple dipstick test to screen for sugar and protein, which can indicate conditions like diabetes or kidney problems.
• General health review - Your doctor will ask about your medical history, any current medications, and conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, sleep apnoea, or heart problems.
• Physical examination - A brief check of your cardiovascular and neurological health.
• BMI assessment - Your height and weight will be recorded.

The whole appointment typically takes around 10 minutes. There's no need to fast beforehand, and most people find it far less daunting than they expected.

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

Cost and how to book

PCV medicals don't have to be expensive. Many GP surgeries charge upwards of £120 for a D4 medical, and waiting times can stretch into weeks. At South Wales Driver Medicals, we offer PCV medicals at a fraction of the cost, with appointments available across seven locations.

We have clinics in Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Bridgend, Mountain Ash, Port Talbot, and Bristol (Avonmouth), so there's likely one close to you. Appointments are available throughout the week, and you'll receive your completed D4 form on the day.

You're welcome to read what our patients say about us on our reviews page.

FAQs

Can I use my PCV medical for an HGV licence too?

Yes. The D4 form covers both Category C (HGV/LGV) and Category D (PCV). One medical, one form, both licence categories.

Do I need to go to my own GP for the PCV medical?

No. Any registered doctor can complete your D4 form. You do not need to visit your own GP, and in most cases a specialist driver medical clinic will be quicker and more affordable.

What happens if I fail the medical?

"Failing" is less common than people think. If your doctor identifies an issue, such as high blood pressure, they'll explain what needs to happen next. In many cases, it's a matter of getting a condition managed and rebooking. Your doctor won't simply tick a box and move on - the goal is to help you understand your health and what the DVLA requires.

I'm under 45 - do I still need a medical?

Yes, for your initial PCV application. After that, you won't need another until you're 45 (unless the DVLA requests one due to a medical condition).

What should I bring to the appointment?

Bring a form of photo ID (driving licence or passport), your glasses or contact lenses if you use them for driving, and details of any medications you take. If your employer or training provider has given you a D4 form, bring that too, though we can supply one if needed.

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Ready to get your PCV medical sorted? Visit our PCV medical service page or call us on 02920 30 90 76 to book your appointment today.