What's Changing
The law hasn't changed. This is an update on how long DVLA is taking. In a written answer to Parliament on 14 October 2026, the government said the average time to make a licensing decision in medical cases is 62.3 working days so far in 2026/27.
That figure covers all medical cases, not just lorry and bus drivers. The government says DVLA is getting more medical applications, and more complex ones, and this has led to longer waits for some people. Cases take longer when DVLA needs information from doctors or other healthcare professionals.
DVLA has brought in a new medical casework system and a digital medical services portal that covers around 1,600 conditions. It's recruiting more staff and trialling text updates for drivers who agree to them. The answer doesn't give a date for shorter waiting times. For its other services, DVLA says it's operating within normal turnaround times.
When It Starts And Who It Affects
The figure was published on 14 October 2026 and covers 2026/27 so far. It matters most if your lorry or bus licence renewal needs a medical check.
DVLA sends lorry and bus licence renewal reminders 56 days before the licence expires. If you're 45 or over, you get two forms: the D47P renewal form and the D4 medical report. From 45 you need a D4 every 5 years, then every year from 65. If you're under 45, you get the D47PU renewal form.
A D4 is valid for 4 months from the date the doctor and optician or optometrist sign and date it.
What It Means For Your Car And Lorry Insurance
No official source says how a delayed renewal affects your insurance, so don't assume either way. Ask your insurer. If you want to see how holding an HGV licence can affect cover for your own car, read about car insurance for HGV drivers.
The licence question comes first. By law, it's an offence to drive without a licence that covers the vehicle. It's also an offence to cause or let someone else do it, which matters for employers and operators.
The law may let you keep driving while a renewal is with DVLA, even after your licence has expired, if you meet certain conditions. While DVLA is still making medical checks, it can't tell you whether this applies to you. You and your doctor decide, and it's your responsibility to meet the conditions every time you drive.
Before You Drive While Your Renewal Is With DVLA
You must meet all the conditions, every time you drive. These are some of them.
Your Health
- Your doctor or optician hasn't told you not to drive
- You and your doctor have decided, as DVLA can't say during medical checks
Your Application
- DVLA has your correct and complete application
- DVLA received it within the last 12 months
Your Lorry Or Bus Entitlement
- It hasn't been suspended, revoked or refused by a traffic commissioner
From GOV.UK's lorry and bus renewal guidance for drivers 45 and over, and DVLA leaflet INF1886. GOV.UK lists further conditions, so check the full list.
You can compare truck insurance quotes when you're ready.
What To Do Now
- Look out for your forms. DVLA sends them 56 days before your licence runs out.
- Time your D4. It's valid for 4 months from the date it's signed, so don't get it done too early.
- Send a complete application. The rule that can let you drive while you wait needs DVLA to have your correct and complete application.
- Check the conditions before you drive. If your doctor or optician has told you not to drive, you can't rely on that rule.
- Talk to your employer and your insurer. Tell your employer or operator where your renewal stands, and ask your insurer if you're not sure what it means for your cover.
FAQs
Can I Drive My Lorry While My HGV Licence Renewal Is With DVLA?
Sometimes. The law may let you keep driving while a renewal is processed, but only if you meet every condition. These include not being told by your doctor or optician not to drive, and DVLA having your complete application within the last 12 months.
How Long Is DVLA Taking With Medical Licence Cases?
62.3 working days on average so far in 2026/27, according to the government's written answer of 14 October 2026. That figure covers all medical cases, not just lorry and bus licences.
Does A Delayed HGV Licence Renewal Affect My Insurance?
Ask your insurer. No official source says how a delayed renewal affects cover, so check with them, and tell your employer or operator where your renewal stands.
