HGV provisional licence, D2 and D4 forms

# HGV provisional licence, D2 and D4 forms

If you work in a warehouse, shop, or drive a van, moving into HGV driving could be a good way to improve your weekly pay. Before you can take professional lorry lessons, you need to apply for an HGV provisional licence.

The application involves two important forms, the D2 and D4. This guide explains what they are, how to complete them, and what happens next.

What is an HGV provisional licence?

An HGV provisional licence gives you permission to learn to drive larger vehicles, such as rigid lorries and articulated lorries.

The category you apply for depends on the type of vehicle you want to drive:

• Category C allows you to drive a rigid lorry over 3,500kg.
• Category C+E allows you to drive an articulated lorry, once you have the required entitlement.
• Category C1 covers vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg.

Most new HGV drivers start with Category C. You must hold a full car driving licence before applying, although you do not usually need previous lorry driving experience.

What are the D2 and D4 forms?

The D2 is the application form for your provisional lorry entitlement. It asks for your personal details, driving licence information, and the vehicle categories you want to add.

The D4 is the HGV medical examination report. A doctor or other approved medical professional must complete this form after checking that you meet the required medical standards for lorry driving.

You will normally need:

• Your photocard driving licence.
• A completed D2 form.
• A completed D4 medical form.
• Details of any medical conditions, medication, or eyesight issues.
• A suitable passport-style photograph if required.

How to apply for HGV provisional entitlement

You can apply for HGV provisional entitlement through the GOV.UK website. The D2 form can usually be ordered online, and the D4 form can be downloaded or obtained from a medical provider.

The usual process is:

1. Check that your car driving licence is valid. 2. Choose the HGV categories you want to apply for. 3. Arrange an HGV medical with a qualified doctor. 4. Complete the D2 application carefully. 5. Ask the doctor to complete the medical sections of the D4. 6. Send the forms to the DVLA using the address provided. 7. Wait for your licence to be updated before booking your practical training.

Check every detail before sending the forms. Mistakes, missing information, or an incomplete medical report can delay your application.

Booking your HGV medical

The D4 medical normally includes checks on your eyesight, blood pressure, general health, and medical history. You should bring your driving licence, a list of medication, and details of any relevant conditions.

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, take them with you. Your eyesight must meet the standard for the vehicle category you want to drive.

Medical requirements can be stricter for HGV drivers than for car drivers. If you are unsure about a condition, speak to the medical provider before your appointment.

What happens after you apply?

Once the DVLA has processed your application, check your updated driving licence online. You can then arrange HGV lessons and prepare for the theory and practical tests.

You may also need Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, known as Driver CPC, if you plan to drive HGVs for a living. This is separate from the provisional licence and forms part of the professional driver qualification.

If you need help deciding which category to apply for, call 0800 820 3300 or visit /contact.