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Maintaining your HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) licence in the UK comes with its own set of responsibilities—and one of the most important is passing your regular HGV medical assessment. But as 2025 rolls in, many drivers are asking: How much does an HGV medical actually cost—and is it worth paying more through a GP, or should you go private?
In this guide, we’ll break down the real costs of HGV medicals in 2025, the pros and cons of using an NHS GP vs a private clinic, and how you can make the right choice without overspending. We’ll also explore what the DVLA expects, what can go wrong, and how to avoid costly delays.
Table of Contents
Why HGV Medicals Matter in 2025
Every HGV driver must pass a medical examination to obtain or renew their licence. This is a legal requirement by the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) to ensure that drivers are medically fit to operate heavy vehicles safely.
The medical includes:
- A review of your medical history
- A vision test
- A physical examination
- Completion of the DVLA D4 medical form
HGV Medical Cost in 2025: A Wide Range
One of the biggest surprises for drivers is the dramatic variation in prices. Depending on where you go, an HGV medical can cost anywhere from £40 to over £270.
Here’s a breakdown of what we’re seeing in 2025:
| Provider Type | Typical Cost Range | Includes Eye Test? | Turnaround Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| NHS GP | £150 – £270 | Sometimes | Longer (1–4 weeks) |
| Private GP | £90 – £240 | Rarely | Varies |
| Private Clinics | £40 – £80 | Often Included | Fast (1–7 days) |
| Dr4D4 | £45 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Same week appointments |
Why Do NHS GPs Charge More?
It may seem counterintuitive that going to your local NHS GP could cost more than a private provider—but there’s a reason.
NHS GPs are self-employed contractors.
Although the NHS funds their core services, non-NHS services like HGV medicals must be paid for separately. GPs must cover overheads, staff, and administrative costs, and that reflects in their pricing.
Many drivers report being quoted over £200 for a medical through their GP, while a private clinic may charge less than a quarter of that.
Private Clinics: Lower Cost, More Convenience
Private providers often specialise in driver medicals and are usually:
- More experienced with DVLA’s D4 form
- Able to offer quicker appointments
- Equipped to include vision tests
- Open during evenings or weekends
Some companies even bundle the medical with driver training programmes. For example, one driver noted they received their medical as part of a package, which saved time and money.
At Dr4D4, we focus on medicals for professional drivers, offering appointments for only £45, including the vision test and a free retest if needed. There are no hidden fees, and our clinics across Greater Manchester make it easy to book at a time that suits you.
GP vs Private: What Drivers Say
The online forums are full of driver feedback—and opinions are split.
✅ Why Drivers Choose Private:
- “My GP quoted £211.31—Dr4D4 did it for £45. Not a hard choice.”
- “Got an appointment in 2 days, in and out in 15 minutes.”
- “No delays, eye test included, paperwork done perfectly.”
⚠️ Why Some Still Prefer GPs:
- “Your GP knows your full medical history.”
- “Private doctors might miss serious issues.”
- “I feel safer knowing someone familiar is doing it.”
Some drivers worry that private clinics don’t have access to full medical records, which could result in missed conditions. In rare cases, this has led to serious consequences, including well-known incidents like the Glasgow bin lorry crash. However, these risks can be avoided by choosing reputable providers.
Are All Private Clinics Safe?
Not all providers are equal. There have been instances where third-party clinics were removed from approved DVLA lists due to poor practices. It’s essential to:
- Check reviews
- Ask if the clinic includes the eye test
- Avoid deals that seem “too cheap to be true”
At Dr4D4, we’re committed to safe, compliant, and ethical medical assessments. All assessments are carried out by fully registered GMC doctors who understand the specific requirements for DVLA forms.
Can You Claim HGV Medical Costs on Tax?
Yes! This is a little-known benefit: you can claim the cost of your HGV medical as a work-related expense through HMRC.
Even self-employed drivers can usually deduct this as part of their tax return. It’s worth keeping your receipt and mentioning it to your accountant—or researching how to file it yourself through the HMRC website.
Peace of Mind vs Price: What Really Matters
When it comes down to it, every driver must decide what matters most:
- Do you want the peace of mind from a GP who knows your medical history?
- Or the convenience and lower cost from a private clinic?
Either way, the priority should always be: a thorough, accurate medical that ensures your safety and legal compliance.
If your provider doesn’t ask detailed questions or rushes the process, that’s a red flag. A small saving today isn’t worth a costly delay—or even a licence suspension—tomorrow.Peace of Mind vs Price: What Really Matters
When it comes down to it, every driver must decide what matters most:
- Do you want the peace of mind from a GP who knows your medical history?
- Or the convenience and lower cost from a private clinic?
Either way, the priority should always be: a thorough, accurate medical that ensures your safety and legal compliance.
If your provider doesn’t ask detailed questions or rushes the process, that’s a red flag. A small saving today isn’t worth a costly delay—or even a licence suspension—tomorrow.
Why Choose Dr4D4 for Your HGV Medical in 2025?
We’ve helped thousands of drivers get and keep their HGV licences with fast, affordable medicals—without compromising on safety or quality.
✅ Only £45 — Includes full eye test
✅ Free retest if required
✅ No hidden charges
✅ Experienced doctors familiar with the D4 form
✅ Appointments available weekly in Greater Manchester
✅ Flexible clinic hours including weekends
Book your appointment now and stay road-ready with Dr4D4.
