What is the DVLA D4 Form?
The D4 is a medical questionnaire and examination report completed by a GMC-registered doctor on behalf of a patient applying for or renewing a Group 2 driving licence. It provides the DVLA with a structured medical assessment to determine whether the applicant meets the medical standards required to drive large vehicles safely.
Who Needs a D4 Medical?
A D4 medical is required for:
- First application for a Group 2 licence (C, CE, D, or DE category)
- Renewal of a Group 2 licence (every 5 years until age 45; annually from age 45)
- Group 1 (car) licence holders when specifically requested by the DVLA due to a medical condition
Group 2 licence categories include HGV (heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes), buses, coaches, and minibuses with more than 8 passenger seats.
What the D4 Examination Covers
The D4 examination is more thorough than a standard GP consultation. It includes:
Vision
Visual acuity in each eye (uncorrected and corrected); binocular vision; visual fields assessment. Standards: at least 6/9 in the better eye and 6/12 in the other eye, with glasses if needed.
Cardiovascular
Blood pressure measurement; review of any known cardiac conditions, previous heart attacks, arrhythmias, or pacemakers. Hypertension must be controlled within DVLA standards.
Diabetes
Urine dipstick for glucose; review of diabetes management and HbA1c if applicable. Insulin-treated diabetics have specific requirements for Group 2 licences.
Medical history
Neurological conditions, epilepsy, sleep apnoea, psychiatric conditions, alcohol or drug dependency, and any other conditions on the DVLA's notifiable conditions list.
How to Prepare for Your D4 Appointment
- Bring the D4 form: You need to obtain the D4 form from the DVLA website or your employer before your appointment. The GP cannot submit on your behalf without the completed sections.
- Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you use them for driving — vision testing is done both with and without correction.
- List your current medications — particularly any that carry sedation, blood pressure effects, or driving cautions.
- Bring any relevant letters from hospital specialists if you have a known medical condition (diabetes, epilepsy, cardiac history).
Tip: The D4 form is valid for 4 months from the date of the examination. Submit it to the DVLA with your licence application promptly to avoid it expiring before processing.
Book Your D4 Medical at Lambert Medical
Lambert Medical Practice offers DVLA D4 medical appointments with a GMC-registered GP, with same-week availability in Surbiton. No NHS GP referral required — you can book directly.