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Bus Driver Medicals

What is a D4 medical test for a bus driver? 

A D4 medical is a medical examination required for bus and coach drivers in the United Kingdom. The examination is conducted by a doctor, and it is used to determine whether a driver is fit to hold a valid commercial driver's license. The examination includes a physical examination, vision test, and review of the driver's medical history. The driver must pass the examination in order to be issued a new license, or for the renewal of their lorry and bus driving licence. 

Why is this medical test for bus driver required? 

A D4 medical test for bus drivers is required for driving a bus or coach, as it is considered a safety-sensitive job. The examination is used to ensure that drivers are physically and mentally fit to operate a commercial vehicle, and to identify any health issues that may affect their ability to drive safely. The examination will also review the driver's medical history to check for conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and sleep disorders. The DVLA bus driver medical examination is how the government aims to ensure the safety of the public while they are travelling on buses and coaches. 

What does the D4 bus driver medical form look for? 

Neurological disorders 

The bus drivers' medical examination has several sections in order to check their medical competency. The first section is to identify any concerns regarding the brain, and the overall nervous system. Such as family history, seizures, epilepsy, and other neurological disorders. 

Diabetes mellitus 

 

This part of the bus driver medical exam is to determine whether the driver has either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The form asks if it is treated with medication, such as insulin, or with diet. Diabetes is a serious condition that can affect many parts of the body. Such as vision. 

Cardiac disease 

There are several sections under the cardiac section, from coronary artery disease to blood pressure. The DVLA bus driver medical form asks about medication, treatment, medical history and any other form of heart failure.  

Psychiatric illness 

This section focuses on behaviours, disorders and addictions. The mental health of a bus driver is crucial, as they are responsible for thousands of people's lives a year. The bus driver medical looks for psychosis, mania, cognitive impairment, dementia, substance and alcohol abuse, and severe depression.  

How often is this medical required? 

The frequency of the D4 medical examination for bus and coach drivers in the United Kingdom depends on the driver's age and the type of commercial driver's license they hold. For drivers under the age of 45, a D4 medical examination is required every 5 years when renewing a commercial driver's license; between the ages of 45 to 65, an examination is required every 3 years when renewing; over 65 requires a D4 test every 2 years on renewal. It's important to note that if a driver has any medical conditions that could affect their ability to drive safely, they may be required to undergo more frequent medical examinations. It's essential for bus drivers to maintain good health and to keep up with regular medical check-ups to ensure that they are fit to drive. 

Why choose Doctor Lisa? 

The DVLA HGV medical renewal exam is done personally by Doctor Lisa. Giving you on-hand advice throughout the entire process. The D4 will take an average of 30 mins, but can take longer dependant on your needs. The location is comfortable, luxuriously designed, in the heart of a prestigious area in London. Don’t forget to bring your D4 medical form with you, which is available here.

The examination will take place at either her safe, modern clinic in central London or at a different location in North London. Please call 07940306316 to discuss the most convenient time and location for you. Evenings and weekend appointments are available also.

Dr Lisa Briscoe Chavda BSc MBBS MRCP DFSRH MRCGP
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