Can you wake up one day and become a commercial driver? Well, no. Did you know you must pass a series of medical tests to qualify as a commercial driver? The commercial driver’s medical is a standard procedure every candidate must pass. So, do you have what it takes to pass commercial drivers’ medical?
Let’s find out how fit you are.
Word to the wise, these tests rule who will and will not be appointed as a commercial driver, so make sure you prepare well for this test if your career path includes Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) operating. These tests are designed to keep the driver and the public safe. Losing control of a heavy vehicle can result in lethal consequences.
The HGV medicals are mandatory for heavy-duty vehicles, taxis, ambulances, PCVs, LGVs and other commercial drivers. Here’s what the physician will look at while conducting a thorough examination.
Eyesight
To pass your commercial driver’s medical, your eyesight should be 20/20 with or without prescribed glasses or contacts. Contacts and drinks are allowed if your sight remains under +8 with a field of vision of at least 160 degrees. Even having a minor eye condition can disqualify you. Before hedging to the examination, visit your optician for a full report on your eyesight’s health.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy, no matter how minor, will get you instantly disqualified; even having the minimum aura can be a massive danger when driving a commercial vehicle. The only way a driver with a history of epilepsy can drive an HGV is when it’s been five years since their last episode, and they haven’t been on any medication since.
Heart Issues
Unc untreated Heart conditions will work adversely if you apply for a commercial driver’s medical. So, if you have a heart condition, ensure you carry all proof of how you are treating your disease.
Diabetes
Diabetes is also a grey area; you must prove you can control your type 1 and 2 diabetes. You will be required to test and show twice daily glucose testing. Apart from that, if you are on insulin, you must strictly record your glucose readings on a machine with memory functions. You will be asked for these readings at any time.
Brain Injury, Surgery, Trauma, and Malignant Conditions
Like epilepsy, any medical condition, even a minor one to do with the brain, is a no-go area. Any past brain injury, surgery or even a malignant illness will keep you from passing your commercial driver’s medical. If you aren’t sure about your situation, speak to your healthcare professional before preparing and applying for the HGV medicals.
Sleep Disorders
Here’s one that’s an instant disqualifier: sleep disorders. Did you know most heavy vehicle accidents happen due to the driver sleeping while driving? Drowsiness, sleep apnoea, and narcolepsy are a big no. Apart from that, any medication with drowsiness as a strong side effect is also prohibited.
The conditions mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg; to know more, click Commercial Drivers Medical to prepare for your HGV medicals.
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