If you drive for a living, your D4 medical certificate is what keeps your licence valid, and letting it lapse can take you off the road entirely. Here's a straightforward answer to a question we get asked constantly.
When you need your first D4
Anyone applying for a new HGV, LGV or PCV licence needs a D4 medical as part of that application. There's no way around this one, it's a DVLA requirement before a Group 2 licence is issued.
Renewals after age 45
- Under 45: your medical is generally valid until age 45
- 45 to 65: renewal is required every 5 years
- 65 and over: renewal is required every year
The DVLA will usually write to you before your certificate expires, but relying on that letter arriving on time is risky. We'd recommend booking your renewal medical 6 to 8 weeks before expiry, so there's time to resolve anything unexpected without a gap in your ability to drive.
What happens if it lapses
If your medical certificate lapses, your Group 2 entitlement can be revoked until a new one is submitted. For someone whose income depends on driving, that's a serious gap. Booking early removes the risk entirely.
Same-day and next-day D4 appointments are available nationwide, seven days a week, with your certificate signed on the spot wherever the outcome allows.
If you're due a renewal, or you're not sure when yours falls due, get in touch and we'll help you work it out.