Published by Go Big Driving School | Sheffield & Rotherham | Updated June 2026

The D4 medical is the first step in getting your HGV licence, and the one that makes most people anxious before they have done it. The reality is that for the vast majority of candidates in good general health, it is a straightforward 20 to 30 minute appointment. This article tells you exactly what happens at the examination, what the doctor is checking, and how to prepare.

What Is the D4 Medical?

The D4 is a Group 2 medical examination — the standard required for HGV, bus, and coach licences in the UK. It is more thorough than a standard GP appointment but less involved than a specialist assessment. It is conducted by a registered medical practitioner (your own GP or a private provider) and the completed D4 form is submitted to the DVLA alongside your provisional licence application.

The examination is required because larger vehicles carry greater risk — the DVLA sets minimum health standards for Group 2 drivers to protect both the driver and other road users.

What Does the Examination Cover?

Eyesight

You must be able to read a number plate at 20 metres. The doctor will also check your field of vision — you need a horizontal field of at least 160 degrees and no significant defects in the central 120 degrees. Glasses and contact lenses are permitted as long as you wear them when driving. Colour blindness is assessed but is not automatically disqualifying.

Blood Pressure

Your blood pressure is measured. There is no single pass/fail threshold but consistently high readings (sustained above 180/100) will prompt a referral for further assessment. If you know your blood pressure is elevated, speak to your GP before the medical and consider treatment if appropriate.

Cardiovascular Health

The doctor will check your heart rate and rhythm, and review your cardiovascular history. Certain conditions — recent heart attack, unstable angina, severe heart failure — may affect eligibility. Controlled or treated conditions are assessed case by case.

Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common concerns candidates raise. Controlled diabetes managed by diet or oral medication is generally not a barrier to an HGV licence. Insulin-treated diabetes requires a specific DVLA assessment, but it is not an automatic disqualification — many insulin-treated drivers hold Group 2 licences under an annual review arrangement.

Sleep Disorders

You will be asked about sleep quality and whether you have been assessed or treated for sleep apnoea. Untreated sleep apnoea is a significant concern for professional drivers. If you have been diagnosed and are on CPAP therapy, this is usually acceptable to the DVLA.

Neurological Conditions

Epilepsy history is assessed carefully. DVLA rules require a seizure-free period before Group 2 entitlement can be granted. Other neurological conditions are assessed on an individual basis.

General Health and Medical History

The doctor will review your general health, any significant medical history, current medications, and relevant family history. Bring a list of your current medications to the appointment.

What to Bring

  • Your current driving licence
  • Your glasses or contact lenses (if you wear them to drive)
  • A list of your current medications
  • Any relevant medical letters or test results if you have a known condition

What Does the D4 Cost in Sheffield?

Private clinics in Sheffield and Rotherham typically charge £60 to £100 for the D4 examination. Some GPs will complete it for less. The appointment lasts 20 to 30 minutes. You will receive the completed D4 form to submit with your DVLA application.

What Happens If Something Is Flagged?

If the doctor identifies something that needs further DVLA assessment, they will note this on the D4 form. The DVLA then decides whether to grant the entitlement, request further information, or decline. This process can take several weeks, but a flag at the medical does not automatically mean you cannot get your licence — it means the DVLA will look at your specific situation in more detail.

If you have a known health condition and are unsure whether it affects your eligibility, consult the DVLA’s medical rules guidance on GOV.UK or speak to your GP before booking the D4.

Ready to Start?

Call Dan on 0114 357 0000. We can advise on D4 providers in the Sheffield area and talk you through the full licence process from medical to test.

Visit our Class 2 HGV training page, or read our step-by-step guide to getting your HGV licence for the full process overview.