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HGV Medical Test
For those operating Heavy Goods Vehicles, undergoing a comprehensive health screening is a regulatory requirement, and ensures that Drivers are medically fit to operate these large vehicles safely.
- Every new HGV Driver must undergo a HGV medical exam before they can start driving,
- From the age of 45, Drivers will need to pass a HGV medical test every 5 years.
- From age 65, passing a HGV medical test becomes an annual requirement.
PSV Medical Tests
PSV stands for Public Service Vehicle. Operators of buses and coaches undergo a medical test just like HGV Drivers. This process is identical to the HGV medical examination, so the information on this page is still relevant.
What Does an HGV Medical Test Entail?
The goal of these assessments is to confirm that Drivers have the necessary physical and mental health to safely drive large vehicles. The paperwork that will need to be submitted to the DVLA is a D4 form. This will be completed by the physician who examines the Driver, but the decision on whether a Driver is permitted to drive is made by the DVLA.
Essential Elements of the HGV Medical Test
1. Overall Physical Health Evaluation
This fundamental aspect of the HGV health assessment reviews the Driver's general physical state, checking vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure, and evaluating their fitness to drive heavy vehicles.
2. Vision Assessment for HGV Operators
One of the most important capabilities for any Driver, especially those handling large vehicles, is vision. The vision assessment ensures that Drivers meet essential visual standards, including clarity of sight and peripheral awareness.
3. Blood Examination
Although not a standard requirement, a blood examination can be requested to uncover any underlying issues such as blood sugar levels or cholesterol, which could impair a Driver’s ability to operate an HGV safely. If a Driver has a condition such as diabetes, this must be disclosed to the DVLA and monitored closely.
Diabetes UK has further information about vocational driving and diabetes, which you can read here: Driving for work
4. Substance Screening
To enhance road safety, substance screenings can be part of the HGV health examination process. These tests help ensure that Drivers are not under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol, which could severely affect their driving capabilities.
Additional Health Checks
What Specific Health Issues Are Screened?
The health screening might extend to evaluating neurological, psychiatric, and musculoskeletal health, all vital for maintaining the high levels of alertness and physical control needed for driving heavy vehicles.
Responsibilities Of A Driver
- It is the responsibility of the Driver to inform the DVLA of any changes in their health that might affect their ability to drive safely.
- Regular updates and re-examinations are required, particularly for conditions like diabetes or if the Driver develops any new health issues.
Standards and Requirements
Health Criteria for HGV Drivers
Outlined by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), these criteria ensure Drivers do not have medical conditions that could interfere with safe driving practices. Follow this link to read up on them.
Summary - HGV Medical Test
In summary, the HGV medical test is a legal requirement for all Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Drivers, designed to ensure that these Drivers are physically and mentally capable of safely managing large vehicles.
The examination assesses Drivers' overall physical health, vision capabilities, and potential substance use, among other aspects. These tests are required to be taken at the start of a Driver’s career and become increasingly frequent after the age of 45, highlighting the importance of ongoing health monitoring in ensuring road safety.
Managed and regulated by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), the process protects the Drivers and enhances public safety by preventing accidents that could arise from medical issues.
What Do TachoMagic Do?
On average, TachoMagic Users spend just 10 minutes a week doing their tachograph analysis. This includes downloading vehicle and Driver data, looking at reports, and uncovering any infringements.
By taking advantage of the TachoMagic Automatic Download Device (TADD), and scheduled reports you can free up your time, and get on with the jobs you'd rather be doing. Want to find out more? Get in touch today on 0113 877 0190
Further Reading - HGV Medical Test
If you have found our article on HGV Medical Tests useful, we have some further articles below that may be helpful
What Is A HGV - A Comprehensive Guide
About The Author
Simon Theaker
Simon has over 20 years of dealing with tachograph analysis, and the technologies involved.
His in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience have made him a key behind-the-scenes member of the TachoMagic team.
Through his blogs, Simon hopes to make the lives of Fleet Manager
