Your HGV licence isn’t something you get once and forget about. It needs to be renewed regularly, and missing a renewal can stop you driving professionally overnight.
Whether you’re a new driver or have been on the road for years, understanding how HGV licence renewal works is essential if you want to stay compliant and keep working.
How Long Does an HGV Licence Last?
In the UK, your HGV licence is usually valid until the age of 45. After that, renewal becomes more frequent.
- Up to age 45: Licence valid without medical renewal
- Age 45–65: Renew every 5 years
- Over 65: Renew every year
This applies to drivers holding licences such as Category C (Class 2) and Category C+E (Class 1).
Do You Need a Medical to Renew Your HGV Licence?
Yes — once you reach 45, you will need to complete a D4 medical examination as part of your renewal.
This medical checks that you are still fit to drive large vehicles safely. It typically includes:
- Vision test
- Blood pressure check
- General health assessment
- Review of any medical conditions
You’ll need a completed D4 form signed by a doctor before your licence can be renewed.
How to Renew Your HGV Licence
The process is straightforward, but it’s important not to leave it too late.
To renew your licence, you’ll usually need to:
- Complete the DVLA renewal form (D47P)
- Complete a D4 medical form (if required)
- Submit your application to the DVLA
In many cases, the DVLA will send you a reminder before your licence expires. Even so, it’s your responsibility to make sure it’s renewed on time.
What Happens If Your HGV Licence Expires?
If your HGV licence expires, you cannot legally drive HGV vehicles until it has been renewed and approved.
This can affect:
- Your job and income
- Your ability to take on driving work
- Your insurance validity
Renewing late can lead to downtime, so it’s always best to start the process early.
Driver CPC and Licence Renewal – Don’t Confuse Them
Your HGV licence renewal is separate from your Driver CPC.
Even if your licence is valid, you still need a valid Driver CPC qualification if you are driving professionally. This includes completing 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years.
If your CPC has expired, you’ll need to complete training such as Online Periodic CPC Training before returning to professional driving.
Do You Need to Retake Your Test When Renewing?
No — in most cases, you do not need to retake your HGV driving test when renewing your licence.
Renewal is based on your medical fitness and DVLA approval, not on retesting your driving ability.
However, if your licence has been expired for a long period or revoked, different rules may apply.
Keeping Your Licence Valid
Staying on top of your HGV licence is part of being a professional driver. Alongside renewal, you should also make sure:
- Your address details are up to date with the DVLA
- You declare any relevant medical conditions
- Your Driver CPC remains valid
If you’re returning to driving or upgrading your licence, you can explore options like HGV driver training to get back on track.
Need Help Getting Back on the Road?
If your licence has expired, you’re returning to driving, or you’re looking to move up to a higher category, we can help.
Take a look at our Class 1 training, Class 2 training, or Driver CPC training options to get everything sorted quickly and properly.