HGV Licence Renewal Cost (The Complete 2025 Guide).

Introduction: Why Knowing Your HGV Licence Renewal Cost Matters

If you drive a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) for a living, you already know your licence is your livelihood. Yet thousands of UK drivers get caught out every year by unexpected renewal costs or worse, find their licence expired without realising it.

Your HGV licence renewal isn’t just about filling in a form. It involves medical exams, CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence) checks, government fees, and sometimes even employer verification. And because costs vary depending on where and how you renew, knowing what to expect and budgeting for it can save you both money and downtime.

This 2025 guide breaks everything down in plain English:

• What’s included in your HGV licence renewal cost

• The full renewal process (step-by-step)

• Hidden costs most drivers miss

• How to renew faster and cheaper

What Is Included in an HGV Licence Renewal Cost?

Renewing your HGV licence involves a few separate costs. Each plays a role in keeping your licence valid and your professional driver status compliant with DVLA and DVSA standards.

Let’s break it down.

Government & Administrative Fees

This is the core of your renewal. The DVLA charges a small administrative fee for processing your renewal application and issuing your new photocard licence.

• Standard renewal fee: usually between £20–£30.

• Replacement (lost/damaged licence): £20–£25.

• Digital licence update or address change: Free via DVLA online portal.

Tip: Renew online whenever possible, it’s faster, and you’ll avoid postal delays that can keep you off the road.

Medical Examination & Eyesight Test

One of the most significant parts of HGV licence renewal cost comes from the medical exam, often called the D4 medical.

• Cost range: £50–£150, depending on whether you use your GP or a private HGV medical centre.

• Frequency: Usually every 5 years until age 65, then annually.

• What’s checked: Blood pressure, eyesight, diabetes, cardiovascular health, and any medication that might affect driving.

Private providers often charge less and process faster. Many offer same-day certificates that can be submitted directly with your renewal form.

Driver CPC Training / Revalidation Fees

If you drive professionally, you must keep your Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) current. This involves 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years.

• Typical cost: £30–£50 per 7-hour training day.

• Total CPC refresh cost: £200–£350 for 35 hours.

• Who pays: Some employers cover this, but self-employed drivers usually pay out of pocket.

Note: If your CPC expires before your licence renewal, you’ll need to complete your training before the DVLA will issue a new card.

Replacement or Lost Licence Costs

If you’ve lost, damaged, or had your card stolen, you’ll need a replacement before or alongside renewal.

• Replacement fee: £20–£25.

• Online turnaround: typically 7–10 working days.

Step-by-Step: How to Renew Your HGV Licence in 2025

Renewing your HGV licence doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s the full process simplified and up to date for 2025.

Step 1: Check Your Expiry Dates

Start by checking both your licence expiry date and Driver CPC card validity.

• The photocard licence usually lasts 5 years.

• Your CPC must be valid for you to legally drive.

You can check both online via the Gov.uk licence checker.

Step 2: Book Your Medical Examination

You’ll need a D4 medical completed by a registered GP or private clinic.

• Bring your D4 form (available from DVLA or your employer).

• If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring your latest prescription.

• The doctor completes and signs the form; you’ll attach it to your renewal application.

Step 3: Gather Your Documentation

You’ll need:

• Completed D4 Medical Form

• Your current photocard licence

• Passport-style photo (if required)

• CPC certificate (if renewing both together)

• Payment details for the renewal fee

Make sure all information (address, photo, etc.) is up to date, mismatched details can delay approval.

Step 4: Apply Online or By Post

There are two routes to apply:

1. Online via DVLA:

   • Visit www.gov.uk/renew-driving-licence

   • Complete the renewal form (D2 if posting).

   • Upload or post your D4 form and any required ID.

   • Pay online (usually £20).

2. By Post:

   • Mail your completed D2 and D4 forms to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BR.

   • Include payment (cheque or postal order).

Online renewal is faster, typically 7–10 working days vs. up to 3 weeks by post.

Step 5: Wait for Confirmation

You can usually drive while waiting for your renewed licence if:

• Your application has been sent before the old licence expired, and

• You meet medical standards and have no disqualifications.

DVLA will confirm receipt by letter or email (if online). Keep a copy of your submission as proof.

Renewal Timeline & Processing Times

HGV Licence Renewal Cost Breakdown (with Examples)

Let’s look at what you’ll actually pay, depending on your licence type and renewal needs.

Figures are based on 2025 average rates; prices vary by provider.

Cost Comparison: DIY Renewal vs Using a Third-Party Service

For most independent drivers, DIY renewal is straightforward and affordable.
However, if you manage a fleet or need multiple renewals processed fast, third-party agencies can save admin time as long as they’re verified with DVLA or CITB.

How to Save Money on HGV Licence Renewal

Renewing your HGV licence is non-negotiable but paying over the odds for it isn’t. A few smart habits can trim hundreds of pounds off your total renewal cost each cycle.

Let’s look at the most effective ways to save.

1. Renew Early (and Plan Ahead)

Renewing early helps you avoid:

• Rush fees charged by private services.

• Missed-deadline fines if your licence expires.

• Downtime costs if you can’t legally drive while waiting.

Pro tip: Book your medical 3–4 months before expiry. DVLA processing delays can stretch beyond two weeks during busy periods.

2. Use Local or Partner Clinics

Private medical centres specialising in HGV driver exams typically offer fixed-price packages:

• Around £50–£70 for the full D4 medical.

• Some even include free eyesight testing.

In contrast, GP surgeries often charge £100–£150 for the same check and you may wait weeks for an appointment.

Look for DVLA-recognised clinics or providers that offer group discounts if you’re part of a fleet.

3. Time Your CPC Training

CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) renewal can be a major cost especially if you leave it too late.

Scheduling your 35-hour training during off-peak months (January to March, or October to November) often gets you lower course prices and more flexibility.

If your employer books group sessions, ask whether they can include you under a company rate.

4. Ask About Employer or CITB Funding

Many logistics companies, local councils, and fleet operators contribute to driver renewals as part of compliance budgets.

If you’re self-employed, look into:

• CITB Grants: for drivers employed by CITB-registered businesses.

• Apprenticeship Levy Schemes: may cover CPC or NVQ-related renewals.

• Tax Relief: HMRC often allows drivers to deduct training and renewal expenses as business costs.

5. Avoid Overpriced “Express” Services

Beware of unofficial websites advertising “fast-track HGV renewals” for £80–£120, these typically just charge extra to fill out the same DVLA form.

Always renew via gov.uk or through a verified third-party partner. If it doesn’t end with “.gov.uk”, think twice before paying.

Cost Planning Tip Budgeting for Future Renewals

Because medicals, CPC training, and renewals occur every 5 years, try spreading costs evenly.

• Set aside £10–£15 per month in a dedicated “licence fund.”

• This covers future renewals without unexpected expenses.

Common Mistakes and Hidden Costs to Avoid

Even experienced HGV drivers make errors that add unnecessary costs. Here are the top pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

1. Forgetting Your CPC Hours

Failing to complete your 35 hours before renewal means you’ll need extra training to revalidate.

• Result: up to £400 in additional CPC fees.

Check your progress regularly using your Gov.uk CPC record.

2. Using Out-of-Date Medical Forms

Always use the latest D4 form from the official GOV.UK website. Outdated forms cause the DVLA to reject applications meaning another exam and another fee.

3. Missing Address or ID Updates

A mismatch between your driving licence and your medical or CPC paperwork can delay renewal. Updating your address or photo online is free, but fixing an error later may mean a £20 replacement charge.

4. Driving on an Expired Licence

Operating an HGV with an expired licence can lead to:

• Fines of up to £1,000.

• Insurance invalidation.

• Employer penalties or dismissal.

Always renew before expiry even if you’re temporarily off work.

What Happens If You Don’t Renew on Time?

Missing your renewal deadline can have serious consequences, both legally and financially.

Legal & Insurance Implications

Driving with an expired licence is treated as driving without entitlement a criminal offence.
Your vehicle insurance becomes invalid, and you risk points on your licence or disqualification.

Employers are also liable if they allow a driver with an expired HGV licence to operate company vehicles.

How to Re-Activate an Expired Licence

If your licence has already expired:

1. Stop driving immediately.

2. Book a new medical exam (D4 form).

3. Complete the standard renewal application via DVLA.

4. Submit supporting documents and pay the renewal fee.

If your licence has been expired for a long time, the DVLA may require additional checks or fresh CPC training before reinstatement.

Understanding the Medical & Vision Requirements

The HGV driver medical ensures you’re fit to safely operate large vehicles. It’s straightforward but it’s essential to prepare.

What the Doctor Checks

During your D4 exam, your GP or approved examiner will assess:

• Vision: Distance and peripheral eyesight (with or without glasses).

• Blood Pressure: Must be within safe driving limits.

• Cardiovascular Health: Screening for heart conditions or stroke risk.

• Diabetes & Medication: Controlled conditions may need GP sign-off.

• Neurological & Sleep Disorders: e.g., sleep apnoea or epilepsy.

Medical Conditions That May Affect Cost

If you need specialist confirmation (for example, from a cardiologist or ophthalmologist), expect to pay additional consultation fees.

Some clinics bundle these checks, while others charge separately.

Tips to Pass Your Medical First Time

• Bring your photo ID and driving licence.

• Bring glasses/contact lens prescription.

• Avoid energy drinks or caffeine overload before your appointment, they can spike blood pressure.

• Get a good night’s sleep the day before.

HGV Licence Renewal Cost by Region (2025 Overview)

Costs vary slightly depending on where you live. Here’s a rough guide for regional averages (based on 2025 data).

International Drivers Licence Exchange Fees

If you’re an international driver working in the UK, you may need to exchange your foreign licence before renewing.

• Exchange fee: around £43.

• Processed via DVA (NI) or DVLA (GB) depending on residency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an HGV medical cost?

Private clinics charge £50–£80; GP surgeries often £100–£150. Shop around for DVLA-approved providers.

Can my employer pay for my HGV renewal?

Yes. Many transport companies cover renewal and CPC fees as part of compliance budgets.

Do I need to renew my CPC too?

Yes, you must complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to keep your Driver CPC valid.

How long does HGV licence renewal take?

Online renewals usually take 7–10 working days; postal renewals up to 3 weeks.

Can I renew my HGV licence online?

Yes, you can your HGV licence renew directly through GOV.UK for the fastest and cheapest route.

What’s the cheapest way to renew my HGV licence?

Renew online, use a private clinic for your medical, and book CPC training in off-peak months.

Conclusion On HGV Licence Renewal Cost Keep Your Licence Current, Keep Earning

Renewing your HGV licence doesn’t need to be confusing or expensive.
By budgeting early, using approved providers, and staying on top of your CPC hours, you’ll stay compliant, save money, and keep your income steady.

Remember:

• Renew online for the lowest fees.

• Complete your medical before expiry.

• Keep your CPC and licence dates aligned.