Quick answer: HGV drivers need a new medical at 45, every five years until 65, then every year. Check the expiry date against categories C and D on your photocard, book a D4 medical up to four months before renewing, and send the form with your free DVLA renewal.
Your HGV entitlement does not renew itself. Miss the medical and the DVLA lets your Group 2 categories lapse, which for a professional driver means being taken off the road. Here are the renewal rules, how to know when you are due, and how to get it done in one short appointment.
The renewal timetable
- Under 45: your first medical (with your original application) usually carries you through to 45 unless the DVLA has placed you on shorter review for a medical condition.
- 45 to 65: a medical is required at 45 and then every five years, submitted with each licence renewal.
- 65 and over: the licence and the medical renew every year.
How do I know when my HGV medical is due?
Check the expiry date printed against categories C and D on the back of your photocard. The DVLA also posts a D47P renewal reminder around eight weeks before your entitlement expires. If the reminder has arrived, it is time to book the medical: the completed D4 form is only valid for four months, so there is no advantage in doing it too early either.
The renewal steps
- Book a D4 medical. Ours are £49.99 with GMC-registered doctors and same-day availability at over 80 clinics.
- The doctor completes the full D4 form at the appointment, vision section included.
- Send the D4 to the DVLA with your renewal application. Renewing the licence itself is free.
Can I keep driving while the DVLA processes it?
Often yes. Under Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act you may be able to continue driving while the DVLA considers a complete, valid renewal application, provided your doctor has not advised you to stop and you meet the Section 88 criteria. Read the DVLA’s guidance on your renewal letter, and do not let the application become late in the first place: Section 88 does not cover an expired licence with no application submitted.
What if my HGV entitlement has already lapsed?
You must stop driving Group 2 vehicles and renew before returning to work. The process is the same, a D4 medical plus the renewal forms, but you lose working days while the DVLA processes it. Same-day medicals remove the first delay: book your renewal medical now.
Renewal FAQs
How much does an HGV medical renewal cost?
£49.99 at any Simply Medicals clinic. The DVLA licence renewal itself is free.
Do I need a medical every five years for HGV?
Yes, from age 45, and every year from 65. Before 45 only if the DVLA has told you so.
Can I take my HGV medical early?
Yes, up to four months before you submit the renewal, because that is how long the D4 stays valid.
What do I bring to the appointment?
Photo ID, glasses or contact lenses if you wear them, your medication list, and any DVLA letters about your renewal.