Vision & Hearing Standards in HGV Medical Exams Explained

When striving to achieve your HGV licence in the UK, an HGV medical is another hurdle you’ll need to clear. This kind of medical – which a GMC-registered doctor must carry out – must also be repeated every five years between the ages of 45 and 65, after which it becomes an annual requirement.

Central to passing your HGV medical is meeting eyesight and hearing requirements. This article examines what you need to know about these factors and what you can do to support your hearing and vision. Stay with us as we look at what you need to know. 

HGV Medical Eyesight & Hearing Requirements 

So, let’s first look at the eyesight requirements for a lorry driver medical. When talking about car eye test requirements, the Snellen chart is used, and drivers need to have at least 6/12 with both eyes open or 6/12 when there’s vision lost in one eye. If needed, this can be corrected with contact lenses or glasses.

Naturally, an HGV medical sets a higher bar, meaning that you need visual acuity of at least 6/7.5 in one eye and 6/60 in the other on the Snellen scale. Glasses can be used to meet these standards, so long as they’re not more than +8 dioptres. There’s no upper corrective limit for contacts, but in either sense, a driver must have a visual field of 160° horizontally, extending 30° up and down and 70° left and right. 

…and what about hearing standards?

Interestingly, there are no set standards for hearing levels for HGV drivers; however, that’s not to say it isn’t important. As such, your medical doctor will test your hearing to ensure you can hear important sounds required to drive safely. 

We’re talking about sounds like sirens or horns, which are used to alert you to the presence of other drivers or hazards on the road. 

Tips For Maintaining Ear & Eye Health 

The good news is that you can take several steps to support your ear and eye health. Regarding your eyesight, regular check-ups with an optometrist will help you pick up any issues early and take preventative measures. Also, wearing sunglasses (so long as they’re not darker than Category 2) will protect you from harmful rays. 

Changing your diet to include plenty of hydration and foods rich in vitamins A, C & E, and omega-3 fatty acids will help maintain good eye health. 

Protecting Your Hearing 

Again, regular checks will help you keep on top of any degradation in your ability to hear sounds, as will limiting your exposure to loud noises for prolonged periods, such as visits to nightclubs or playing music at high volume while driving. Keeping your ears clean and free of wax build-up will ensure your hearing is as good as possible.

Getting You Smoothly Through Your HGV Medical 

The HGVT team is dedicated to making your route to becoming a professional lorry driver as smooth and stress-free as possible. Your medical is an essential part of the process that shouldn’t be taken for granted, and by following the guidance provided here, you can ensure that you protect your hearing and eyesight and enjoy the career you deserve. To find out more about HGV training with us, please take a moment to browse our website, www.hgvt.co.uk, where you’ll find everything you need to know. Alternatively, call us at 0333 060 4785, and we’ll be delighted to give you the information you need.