This can be found at section 3(g) on page 5 of the DVLA D4 form. Around 14 million people in the UK have raised blood pressure, and of these, 9 million have been diagnosed with high blood pressure by their GP. So plenty of people hold a bus/lorry licence even though they have high blood pressure.
How Does Blood Pressure (BP) Work?
| Normal | DVLA LIMIT | |
| Systolic Reading | up to 140 | 179 |
| Diastolic reading | up to 90 | 99 |
If either of your readings are consistently higher than 140/90, you have raised blood pressure. This may involve blood tests and heart monitoring (ECG) for a diagnosis by your GP.
Why is Blood Pressure Relevant to Driving?
Raised blood pressure causes and contributes to heart and circulatory problems, which are responsible for a quarter of all deaths in the UK. As we get older, our blood pressure naturally increases, so it needs monitoring. D4Drivers identifies this as one of the most common causes of failing your medical.
I Have Been Diagnosed with High Blood Pressure By My GP – What Do I Need to Do?
Many people are diagnosed with raised blood pressure (hypertension). You will need to complete form BP1V for the DVLA, which can be found here.
If your BP readings are less than 170/99, you are within the DVLA limits, and you can continue driving. The DVLA monitors drivers with raised blood pressure to ensure that they continue to meet the expected standards.
I am on Medication for Blood Pressure – What Do I Need to Do?
Firstly, make sure that when you go to your appointment with D4Drivers, you take all your medication with you. If you have been diagnosed with raised blood pressure, it’s a good idea to monitor your BP at different times of the day and on different days of the week. Use this link to buy your monitor.
Remember that most adult males need a larger cuff, so select the model with the larger cuff size; otherwise, readings will not be accurate. Take three readings on the days before your appointment and write these down with the dates and times taken—this will be helpful for the examining doctor at your D4Drivers appointment.
To get the most out of your treatment, set a daily reminder on your phone to take your medication. Monitor your BP a few times every week, and watch for any rising numbers. If this happens, your GP may need to adjust your medication or switch you to a different tablet to keep your BP under control.
What is Malignant Hypertension?
This is the most severe form of hypertension. It can occur if you’ve had high blood pressure for a while, causing organ damage, or it can happen as an emergency with other health complications.
To be diagnosed, you’ll likely have been under the care of a specialist, such as a cardiologist. Keep all your letters from specialists, as these will be helpful to the doctor at your appointment with D4Drivers. Copies may also need to be sent to the DVLA.
If you’ve been diagnosed, you must complete form VOCH1, which can be found here.
And Finally…
For those who want to learn more about diagnosing and treating hypertension, you can find the latest NICE guidelines here.