HGV Provisional Licence: How to Apply
A Great Britain HGV provisional licence application uses two forms: D2, where you apply for the provisional entitlement you need, and D4, the medical examination report completed by a doctor. Send both forms and your photocard driving licence to DVLA. There is no application fee for this application, although the doctor or other medical provider may charge for completing the D4. Start by choosing the category that matches the vehicle you want to drive and the trailer weight you may need to tow.
What the provisional entitlement is
A provisional entitlement is a licensing step that allows you to work towards the relevant lorry or bus qualification. It is not a full vocational licence and does not, by itself, qualify you to drive professionally. The category you apply for depends on the type of vehicle and the trailer weight. Check the DVLA licence categories and the current DVLA application guidance before completing D2.
The process described here is for Great Britain. Driving licence categories differ in Northern Ireland, so use the appropriate Northern Ireland guidance if you live there.
D2 and D4 are different forms
The D2 is the application form. You use it to request the provisional category you need. DVLA says D2 application forms are available from a Post Office that offers driving licence services.
The D4 is the medical examination report. A doctor must complete it for an application for a lorry or bus driving licence. You can get the form through the SWDM D4 download. The official GOV.UK D4 publication provides publication information and INF4D notes. The hosted download is the direct form link; check the official page for supporting information.
The D4 may require an optician or optometrist to complete the eyesight section if the doctor cannot fully answer its questions. The official D4 information explains this requirement. Follow the form instructions and make sure the appropriate professional completes the relevant sections.
Choose the category carefully
On D2, apply for the category that fits the vehicle you intend to drive. DVLA’s guidance notes that the category selected can affect which provisional entitlements are added. For example, choosing C or C1+E can provide provisional entitlements for C1, C1+E, C and C+E. Choosing D or D1 can provide D1, D1+E, D and D+E. The guidance also lists C1 as providing C1.
These examples are not a substitute for checking your own licence and the category definitions. Use the DVLA category guide to understand the vehicle categories, then check the provisional application guidance before you select one. If you are unsure which entitlement matches your plans, contact DVLA for application guidance.
What to send to DVLA
Send the completed D2 and D4 forms with your photocard driving licence to:
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BR
If you hold a paper driving licence, DVLA says to include a passport-style colour photograph and original identity documents. Check the application instructions carefully before posting, as missing forms or supporting documents may delay the application.
DVLA's guidance states that there is no application fee for this provisional entitlement application. This is separate from the fee a doctor, optician or private firm may charge for completing the D4. The medical provider sets that charge. SWDM’s HGV, LGV and PCV Driver Medical service details are available on the HGV medical page.
How long an application may take
DVLA says you should receive your driving licence within three weeks of it receiving your application. It may take longer if DVLA needs to check your health or personal details. Treat the three weeks as an indicative processing time, not a guaranteed delivery date, and allow extra time if further checks or information are needed.
Provisional entitlement and Driver CPC
The provisional entitlement is not the same as the professional qualification. DVLA describes the full Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, usually called Driver CPC, as a separate qualification for people who drive an HGV, bus or coach as the main part of their job. A new driver generally needs to complete the relevant qualification tests after applying for provisional entitlement. There are exceptions to Driver CPC requirements, so check the current official rules for your circumstances.
A provisional licence application alone does not grant full vocational driving privileges. Check DVLA’s requirements and the conditions attached to the entitlement before driving. For more about the qualification steps, read DVLA’s guide to becoming a qualified HGV or bus driver.
Getting the D4 completed
A doctor completes the D4 report. The GOV.UK publication says some doctors can complete both the medical and vision assessment sections. If the doctor cannot fully answer the eyesight questions, an optician or optometrist must complete that section. A GP, optician or private medical service may charge for their work.
If you arrange a private medical appointment, ask what documents to bring and whether any additional eyesight assessment is needed. The clinician completes the relevant report; DVLA considers the application and makes the entitlement decision. A medical appointment does not guarantee that DVLA will grant the licence.
Our Medical Team
Driver medical appointments
South Wales Driver Medicals offers driver medical appointments for HGV, PCV, LGV and taxi drivers. Contact the clinic for information about the clinician conducting your appointment and the requirements for your form.
Frequently asked questions
Which forms do I need for a provisional HGV licence?
For a Great Britain provisional lorry entitlement, complete D2 and provide a D4 medical examination report completed by a doctor. Send both forms with your photocard driving licence to DVLA.
Where can I get the D2 and D4 forms?
D2 forms are available from Post Offices that offer DVLA driving licence services. Download the D4 from SWDM. The official D4 publication page provides publication information and INF4D notes.
Is there an application fee?
DVLA's guidance states there is no fee for the provisional entitlement application. The doctor, optician or private medical service may charge separately for completing the D4.
How long does the application take?
DVLA says you should receive your licence within three weeks of it receiving your application. It can take longer if DVLA needs to check your health or personal details.
Sources and next steps
Use DVLA’s current guidance to confirm the category, forms and submission requirements that apply to you. If you need the D4 medical examination report, download it directly from SWDM. You can read about the relevant appointment on the HGV medical service page.
Sources
- gov.ukApplying for a provisional HGV or bus licence(accessed 2026-10-11)
- gov.ukMedical examination report for a lorry or bus driving licence (D4)(accessed 2026-10-11)
- gov.ukDriving licence categories(accessed 2026-10-11)
- gov.ukBecome a qualified heavy goods vehicle (HGV) or bus driver(accessed 2026-10-11)
This guide is for information only. It is not medical advice. Speak to your GP if you have concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which forms do I need for a provisional HGV licence?
- For a Great Britain provisional lorry entitlement, complete form D2 and provide a D4 medical examination report completed by a doctor. Send both forms and your photocard driving licence to DVLA.
- Where can I get the D2 and D4 forms?
- D2 forms are available from Post Offices that offer DVLA driving licence services. You can download the D4 directly from [SWDM](/download/d4-form.pdf). GOV.UK provides supporting publication information and INF4D notes.
- Is there an application fee for provisional HGV entitlement?
- DVLA's guidance says there is no application fee for this provisional entitlement application. A doctor, optician or private medical service may charge separately for completing the D4.
- How long does DVLA take to process an application?
- DVLA says you should get your driving licence within three weeks of receiving your application. It can take longer if your health or personal details need to be checked.