Driving a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) is a demanding task that requires specialised skills and utmost responsibility. To ensure the safety of both drivers and other road users, the UK government mandates certain medical tests for individuals seeking to obtain or renew an HGV license. These tests are designed to assess the physical and mental fitness of drivers, ensuring they are capable of safely operating these large and powerful vehicles. In this blog post, we will delve into the medical tests required to drive an HGV in England.
Physical Examination
One of the primary medical tests for HGV drivers is a comprehensive physical examination. During this examination, a qualified medical professional assesses various aspects of the driver's health, including vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and general physical fitness. Good eyesight and hearing are essential for safe driving, as they enable drivers to perceive potential hazards and respond accordingly. Furthermore, cardiovascular health is crucial to handle the physical demands of long hours on the road.
Epilepsy and Other Conditions
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, must undergo additional assessments to ensure they can safely operate an HGV. Epilepsy, for example, can cause sudden and unpredictable loss of consciousness, posing a significant risk to the driver and others on the road. In such cases, drivers must provide medical evidence demonstrating that their condition is well-controlled and does not pose a risk while driving.
Mental Health Evaluation
Driving an HGV requires mental alertness, concentration, and the ability to make quick decisions. As a result, HGV drivers must undergo a mental health evaluation to assess their psychological well-being. This evaluation helps identify any underlying mental health conditions that may impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Commercial Transport Training
If you're interested in starting your career as an HGV driver, we are delighted to offer our assistance. At CTT Limited, we have a wealth of experience training individuals and large corporations for over four decades, boasting a remarkable success rate. Our HGV training services are available to customers in Leighton Buzzard, Aylesbury, Oxford, Luton, Milton Keynes, and Bedford. To learn more about our HGV training, feel free to contact us today on
01525 370 862. Alternatively, you can fill out our
online enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.
