If you’re a professional driver in the UK, staying road-legal isn’t just a matter of keeping your vehicle in check — your licence needs just as much attention. Whether you’ve been driving HGVs for years or are new to the industry, knowing what’s required to renew your HGV licence is essential information.
In this post, we’ll break down the real costs involved, from Driver CPC training to medical examinations, so you can plan ahead and stay compliant.
The Basics of HGV Licence Renewal
Your HGV (or LGV) licence doesn’t last forever. Once you’ve obtained your licence, you’ll need to renew it every five years from the age of 45, and annually once you reach 65. The process isn’t complicated, but there are a few key requirements — and associated costs — that drivers need to be aware of.
1. Driver CPC Renewal – Every 5 Years
The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a legal requirement for most commercial drivers. To renew your HGV licence, you must complete 35 hours of periodic Driver CPC training every five years.
This training helps keep drivers up to date with road safety, legislation, and best practices. The good news is that the 35 hours can be split over multiple sessions, and you can complete it at your own pace within the five-year window. At Heads of The Valleys Training, we offer both classroom-based CPC training and online Driver CPC courses, giving you flexible options to suit your schedule and learning style.
Typical cost: £400–£500 for 35 hours of CPC training
(Costs vary depending on the provider and format – classroom vs. online)
2. HGV Medical Examination
To keep your HGV licence valid, the DVLA requires a medical assessment — formally known as a D4 medical. This must be completed:
- Every 5 years from the age of 45
- Annually, once you reach 65
The medical checks your eyesight, blood pressure, and general health to ensure you’re fit to drive professionally. A GP or a private medical examiner must carry it out.
While some drivers go through their NHS GP, many choose private providers for quicker appointments and convenience.
Typical cost: Around £75 (when done privately)
(NHS GPs may offer it for free, but availability varies)
At our training centre, we regularly refer drivers to trusted medical professionals offering affordable, fast-turnaround HGV medicals in South Wales and beyond.
3. Licence Application and DVLA Renewal Fees
If your licence is up for renewal, the DVLA doesn’t charge a fee for standard renewals (provided it’s not lost or damaged). You’ll usually receive a D47P renewal form 56 days before your licence expires, and the process is straightforward.
However, if you’re renewing with changes, or your licence has been lost, stolen or expired for a long time, you may face additional admin or replacement fees.
Typical cost: Free (in most standard cases)
Replacement licence cost (if lost): £20
Optional Add-Ons – Tachograph Card and Digital Upgrades
While not directly part of the HGV licence renewal, many drivers take the opportunity to update or renew their tachograph card during this time. If you’re using a digital tachograph, your card must be renewed every 5 years — just like your CPC.
Tachograph card renewal cost: £19
Total Estimated Cost of HGV Licence Renewal
Here’s a rough breakdown of what most drivers can expect to pay every five years:
| Item | Frequency | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Driver CPC (35 hours) | Every 5 years | £400–£500 |
| HGV Medical | Every 5 years (from 45) / annually (from 65) | £75 |
| Licence Renewal (DVLA) | Every 5 years / annually (from 65) | Free |
| Digital Tachograph Card | Every 5 years | £19 |
| Total (approximate) | £494–£594 |
Planning Ahead Makes Renewal Easier
Rather than leaving it all until the last minute, it pays to stay on top of your training and medicals. Many of our drivers at Heads of The Valleys Training book a few CPC modules each year, making it easier to hit the 35-hour target without pressure. Our Driver CPC online courses are especially popular for this reason — they’re flexible, affordable, and easy to access from anywhere.
Need Help Renewing Your Licence?
At Heads of The Valleys Training, we don’t just provide CPC training — we support professional drivers through every stage of their career. Whether you need help booking your medical, advice on renewing your tachograph card, or you’re simply unsure about the next steps, we’re here to help.
If you’re looking to renew your HGV licence and want a training provider who understands the industry inside out, contact us today or explore our full range of Driver CPC training options.
