Taxi Medical Requirements: What the Examination Involves and How to Book

If you're applying for a taxi or private hire licence, your local council will almost certainly ask you to complete a medical examination before they issue or renew your badge. This guide explains exactly what a taxi medical involves, which councils require one, and how to get yours done quickly and affordably across South Wales and Bristol.

What Is a Taxi Medical?

A taxi medical is a health assessment designed to confirm you are medically fit to hold a taxi or private hire vehicle (PHV) licence. It follows the same Group 2 standard used for HGV and bus drivers, because taxi drivers spend long hours behind the wheel and carry members of the public.

The examination is carried out by a registered medical practitioner who checks your vision, cardiovascular health, neurological function, and general fitness to drive professionally. Once complete, the doctor signs a medical certificate that you submit to your licensing council as part of your application or renewal.

Unlike an NHS health check, a taxi medical is specifically structured around the demands of professional driving. It is not simply a tick-box exercise; the doctor needs to be satisfied that you meet the required standard before they can sign you off.

Which Councils Require a Taxi Medical?

Almost every licensing authority in England and Wales requires a Group 2 medical for taxi and private hire drivers. At South Wales Driver Medicals, we regularly see drivers licensed by (or applying to) the following councils:

• Cardiff Council - required at first application and then periodically, typically every three years (annually once you turn 65).
• City and County of Swansea - required at application and renewal.
• Newport City Council - required at application and renewal.
• Bristol City Council - required at application and renewal.
• Bridgend County Borough Council
• Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) Council
• Neath Port Talbot Council
• Vale of Glamorgan Council

Each council sets its own renewal cycle, so check your licence conditions for the exact frequency. What stays consistent is the medical standard itself: Group 2, the same standard applied to lorry and bus drivers.

If your council is not listed above, don't worry. The medical certificate we provide is accepted by councils across the UK.

What Does the Examination Involve?

Your taxi medical is thorough but straightforward. Here is what you can expect on the day:

• Vision test - You will be asked to read a number plate at the required distance, and the doctor will check your visual acuity and visual fields.
• Blood pressure measurement - Hypertension can affect your ability to hold a Group 2 licence, so an accurate reading is taken.
• Cardiovascular assessment - The doctor listens to your heart and checks for any signs of cardiovascular disease.
• Respiratory check - Your lung function and breathing are assessed.
• Neurological screening - Reflexes, coordination, and any history of seizures or blackouts are reviewed.
• Musculoskeletal assessment - The doctor checks that you have adequate strength and mobility to control a vehicle safely.
• Urinalysis - A urine sample is tested for sugar and protein, which can indicate diabetes or kidney conditions.
• Medical history review - The doctor will ask about current medications, past surgeries, and any ongoing conditions.

The whole appointment typically takes around 10 minutes. If you are on regular medication, bring a list (or your repeat prescription slip) so the doctor has accurate information.

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

How Much Does a Taxi Medical Cost?

At South Wales Driver Medicals, a taxi medical costs £95 - a transparent, fixed price with no hidden fees.

This is a private medical, so it is not covered by the NHS. Many drivers come to us because booking a Group 2 medical through their own GP surgery can be significantly more expensive and often involves a longer wait for an appointment.

Your certificate is completed and signed on the day, so there is no waiting around for paperwork before you can submit your council application. We accept cash on the day as well as card payment, whichever is easier for you.

How to Book

Booking your taxi medical with us is simple:

1. Choose your nearest clinic - We have locations across South Wales and Bristol, so there is likely one close to you. See all our clinic locations including Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, and Bristol (Avonmouth).
2. Book online or by phone - You can book through our website or call us on 02920 30 90 76.
3. Attend your appointment - Bring photo ID (driving licence or passport), your glasses or contact lenses if you use them, and a list of any medications you take.
4. Receive your certificate - Your signed medical form is handed to you on the day, ready to submit to your council.

Most of our patients are seen on time, and the whole process, from arrival to walking out with your certificate, is quick and efficient.

FAQs

What does a taxi medical involve?

It involves a vision test, blood pressure check, cardiovascular and respiratory assessment, neurological screening, urinalysis, and a review of your medical history. The appointment takes around 10 minutes.

How much is a taxi medical?

Do I need to see my own GP for a taxi medical?

No. Any GMC-registered doctor can carry out a taxi medical. Many drivers find it quicker and more affordable to book with a specialist provider like SWDM rather than their GP surgery.

How often do I need a taxi medical?

This depends on your licensing council. Most require a medical at first application and then every three years, increasing to annually once you reach 65. Check your specific council's requirements.

Is the taxi medical the same as a D4 medical?

They follow the same Group 2 standard. Some councils issue their own medical form rather than the DVLA D4, but the clinical examination is essentially identical. We can complete whichever form your council requires.

Can I get a taxi medical near me?

Yes. We have seven clinics across South Wales and Bristol. Visit our locations page to find your nearest clinic, or call 02920 30 90 76 to book.

What happens if I fail the medical?

If the doctor identifies a condition that does not meet the Group 2 standard, they will explain what happens next. In many cases, conditions can be managed or treated so that you meet the standard at a later date. The doctor will advise you honestly rather than simply turning you away.

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Still have questions? Read what other drivers say about their experience with us on our reviews page, or get in touch to book your taxi medical today.