What Is a D4 Medical? A Clear Guide for Drivers
A D4 medical is an examination recorded on the DVLA’s D4 medical examination report. It gives the DVLA medical and vision information when you apply for or renew certain Group 2 lorry or bus driving entitlements. The examination is not a driving test, and completing the form does not itself grant or renew a licence. The DVLA makes the licensing decision using the application and relevant evidence.
Who may need a D4 report?
The D4 report is used for specified Group 2 licence applications. The current DVLA information says you need a report for a first application for a Group 2 lorry or bus licence, and for certain renewals and other circumstances. The rules depend on the entitlement and your situation, so check the current form notes and application guidance before arranging an examination.
For renewals, the process varies by age. The DVLA says drivers under 45 are sent a renewal application, and generally need a D4 in particular cases such as applying for a provisional entitlement in another Group 2 category. At 45 and over, the renewal process includes a D4. The government’s renewal guidance explains the application process and timing. Check that guidance directly, because your circumstances may change which forms you need.
Read the current DVLA guidance on renewing a lorry or bus licenceGOV.UKYou may also need a D4 in circumstances beyond routine renewal. The current INF4D notes describe examples, including a first Group 2 application and some applications involving existing entitlements. Rather than relying on a general summary, use the notes supplied with the current D4 form to check what applies to you.
What information does the D4 collect?
The report is a standard form for recording medical and vision information. The doctor completes the medical examination sections, which ask about matters including your medical history. The form also has a vision assessment. The current notes explain that a doctor, optician or optometrist can complete this section. If the doctor cannot fully answer the vision questions, the DVLA says you must have the section completed by an optician or optometrist.
The form records information for the DVLA to consider. It does not provide a personal prediction of whether your application will be accepted. The decision depends on the applicable licensing requirements and the information the DVLA receives. If you have a condition or treatment you are unsure about, discuss your circumstances with your GP or relevant specialist, and consult the official DVLA guidance.
The D4 includes a blood-pressure section asking for the best resting reading taken on the day. That is a form requirement, not a recommendation about your personal health or a conclusion about your fitness to drive. Do not use a general guide to interpret a reading or change treatment. Speak to your own clinician if you have concerns.
Who completes the medical and vision sections?
A doctor completes the medical examination report. The vision assessment may be completed by a doctor, optician or optometrist. Some doctors can complete both sections. If the doctor cannot fully answer the vision questions, the DVLA requires the assessment to be completed by an optician or optometrist instead.
The D4 notes also explain that the doctor completing the medical section must meet the stated registration requirements. If you are unsure who will complete a section, ask the provider before your appointment. If your vision assessment is completed separately, check how the completed section needs to be returned with the rest of your application.
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.
What should you take to your appointment?
Use the current INF4D information and your appointment instructions as the definitive checklist. The DVLA notes list identification documents and, if you wear glasses to meet the driving eyesight standard, your driving glasses and glasses prescription. If a doctor other than your own GP is completing the report, the notes also say to take a copy of your prescription. The information booklet itself contains instructions for the medical professional, so check whether you have been asked to bring it.
Before attending, review the D4 and complete the parts intended for you. The notes ask applicants to check that all sections have been completed, since an incomplete report can result in the application being returned. If you are uncertain how to answer a question, avoid guessing. Ask the clinician completing the form what information is needed, or check with the DVLA.
Do not stop or alter prescribed medication for the appointment unless the clinician responsible for your care has advised you to. If your health circumstances raise questions about driving, speak with your GP or specialist and refer to DVLA guidance for the relevant condition.
What happens after the D4 is completed?
Follow the current application instructions for sending the completed D4 and any other required forms to the DVLA. The current INF4D notes say the completed report should be sent with the application form and driving licence, and warn that sending forms separately can delay processing. Follow the instructions that apply to your application, as these may differ according to your circumstances.
The notes state that a D4 is valid for four months from the date it is signed and dated by the doctor and, where relevant, the optician or optometrist. Check the current document before applying, and plan your application around its validity period. Keep a copy of the paperwork for your records if possible.
A completed D4 does not guarantee a particular licensing outcome. The DVLA may need further information before deciding. If you are renewing and your current licence expires while an application is being processed, do not assume you can continue driving automatically. The DVLA sets conditions for driving while an application is pending. Read the current rules and make sure you meet every condition before driving.
Read the DVLA guidance on driving while an application is being processedGOV.UKFind the current form and guidance
The D4 and its information notes can be downloaded from the DVLA’s GOV.UK publication page. Use the latest versions there, as the page records when its documents were updated. The D4 form and the supporting notes explain what the report asks, who can complete its sections and what you need to do with it.
Download the current D4 report and information notesGOV.UKSouth Wales Driver Medicals offers driver medical appointments at locations including Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Bridgend and Bristol. Check the available locations and appointment details if you are considering using the service. You can read about the HGV driver medical service or see the full list of services.
TY Antur Enterprise House, Navigation Park, Abercynon, Mountain Ash CF45 4SN
Open Saturday
AVON LODGE, Onroute Truckstops, Third Way, Avonmouth, Bristol BS11 9YP
Open Saturday
Frequently asked questions
Is a D4 medical the same as a driving test?
No. It is an examination recorded on the DVLA D4 report. The report provides medical and vision information for the DVLA’s licensing process; it does not assess your driving ability.
Does the doctor decide whether I get a Group 2 licence?
No. The doctor completes the relevant medical sections of the report. The DVLA makes the licensing decision and may request further information.
Can my optician complete the whole D4?
The medical examination sections are completed by a doctor. A doctor, optician or optometrist can complete the vision assessment. If the doctor cannot fully answer the vision questions, the DVLA says the assessment must be completed by an optician or optometrist.
How long is a completed D4 valid?
The current INF4D notes state that the report is valid for four months from the date it is signed and dated by the doctor and, where relevant, the optician or optometrist. Check the current notes before submitting your application.
Sources
- dvlaMedical examination report for a lorry or bus driving licence (D4)(accessed 2026-10-08)
- dvlaRenew or change a lorry or bus licence(accessed 2026-10-08)
- dvlaRenew or change a lorry or bus licence: if you’re 45 or over(accessed 2026-10-08)
- gov.ukDriving with a medical condition(accessed 2026-10-08)
This guide is for information only. It is not medical advice. Speak to your GP if you have concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a D4 medical?
- A D4 medical is an examination recorded on the DVLA D4 medical examination report. It provides medical and vision information for certain Group 2 lorry or bus licence applications. The DVLA uses the report as part of its licensing process.
- Who may need a D4 report?
- You may need one for a first Group 2 application, certain renewals, or other circumstances listed in the current DVLA guidance. The requirement depends on your application and circumstances, so check the current GOV.UK instructions.
- What does the D4 examination cover?
- The D4 includes medical history and examination sections, as well as a vision assessment. A doctor completes the medical sections. A doctor, optician or optometrist can complete the vision section, depending on who can fully answer it.
- What should I take to a D4 appointment?
- Check the current INF4D notes and your appointment instructions. These may require identification, the D4 paperwork, your driving glasses and glasses prescription if applicable, and a copy of your prescription if the examination is with a doctor other than your own GP.
- Does completing a D4 mean my licence will be approved?
- No. The D4 supplies information for the DVLA's licensing process. The DVLA makes the decision and may request further information.