Need a Class 2, 4, or 5 Licence Medical? What to Expect in Your DL9 Assessment.

If you work in transport or logistics, your driver’s licence isn’t just a card in your wallet—it’s your livelihood. Whether you are driving a Class 2 delivery truck through Hornby, operating a Class 5 combination unit across the Canterbury plains, or managing a fleet, keeping your medical clearance current is non-negotiable.

For many drivers, the DL9 Medical Assessment can be a source of stress. Will my blood pressure be too high? What happens if my eyesight has changed? how often do I need to do this?

At 1 Health in Wigram, we specialise in Truck Driver Medicals and commercial licence assessments. We understand that time off the road costs you money. Our goal is to make the process efficient, fair, and thorough, ensuring you meet Waka Kotahi (NZTA) standards so you can get back behind the wheel.

Here is a comprehensive guide to what to expect during your Class 2, 4, or 5 Licence Renewal, and how to prepare for your medical in Christchurch.

Who Needs a DL9 Medical Certificate?

In New Zealand, a standard car licence (Class 1) usually only requires a medical check when you turn 75. However, for commercial and heavy vehicle operators, the rules are stricter because the risk factors on the road are higher.

You will legally require a Medical Certificate for Driver Licence (DL9) if you are applying for or renewing:

• Class 2, 3, 4, or 5 Licences: Heavy rigid and combination vehicles.
• Passenger (P) Endorsement: Taxi, bus, and Uber drivers.
• Vehicle Recovery (V) Endorsement: Tow truck operators.
• Driving Instructor (I) or Testing Officer (O) Endorsements.
• Dangerous Goods (D) Endorsement: Often required in conjunction with heavy classes.

Additionally, regardless of your licence class, you may need a medical if you have a known medical condition that could affect your driving, such as epilepsy, diabetes, or a history of stroke.



What Happens During the Assessment?

A DL9 assessment is not just a formality; it is a legal requirement under the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999. As approved medical providers, we must certify that you are "medically fit" to drive a heavy vehicle safely.

When you book your DL9 Medical in Christchurch at 1 Health, here is exactly what we check:

1. Vision and Eyesight

Good vision is critical for heavy vehicle operation. We will test your:

• Visual Acuity: Can you read the standard Snellen chart from a distance?
• Visual Fields: Do you have adequate peripheral (side) vision?
• Correction: If you wear glasses or contact lenses to drive, you must bring them to your appointment. If you pass the test using glasses, your licence will have a condition stating you must wear them while driving.

2. Cardiovascular Health (Blood Pressure)

This is the most common hurdle for truck drivers. The sedentary nature of the job, combined with irregular shift work and diet, can lead to hypertension (high blood pressure).

• The Standard: We check if your blood pressure is within safe limits.
• The Issue: If your BP is dangerously high, it increases the risk of stroke or heart attack while driving a 40-tonne vehicle.
• Pro Tip: Avoid caffeine, energy drinks, or smoking for at least an hour before your medical. Arrive 10 minutes early to sit and relax. If your BP is elevated, we can discuss management plans to help you keep your licence safely.

3. Sleep Health & Fatigue

Fatigue is a major killer on New Zealand roads. We will screen for Sleep Apnea, a condition common in the transport industry (often linked to neck size and BMI).

• Signs we look for include loud snoring, waking up gasping for air, or excessive daytime tiredness.
• If you have diagnosed Sleep Apnea, you can still drive, but it must be well-controlled (e.g., using a CPAP machine), and we may need to see compliance data from your device.

4. Diabetes Management

If you have diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2), you need to demonstrate that it is well-controlled.

• We may require a recent HbA1c blood test result.
• We need to ensure you do not suffer from hypoglycaemic episodes (low blood sugar), which can cause blackouts.
• For insulin-dependent drivers, specialist reports are often required.

5. Neurological & Locomotor Function

Driving a heavy vehicle requires physical coordination and strength. We assess:



• Range of movement in your neck, arms, and legs.
• Reflexes and coordination.
• Cognitive function (especially for drivers over 75).

How Often Do You Need a Truck Driver Medical?

The frequency of your medicals depends on your age and the type of licence you hold. It is crucial to book your appointment before your current licence expires, as you cannot legally drive a heavy vehicle on an expired licence.

• New Application: Valid for 60 days from the date of issue.
• Under 25: Every 5 years (for P, V, I, O endorsements).
• Age 25 – 45: Every 10 years (typically aligned with your licence renewal).
• Age 45 – 74: Every 5 years. (This is often when drivers get caught out—once you hit 45, the renewal frequency increases).
• Age 75+: For a Class 2-5 licence, you generally cannot renew beyond age 75 unless confirmed by a medical specialist. For Class 1 (car), you need a medical at 75, 80, and then every 2 years.

Why Choose 1 Health Wigram for Your Medical?

We know that for logistics operators, time is money. You don't want to sit in a waiting room for an hour when you have a run to complete.

1. Logistics-Friendly Location We are located in Wigram, right next to the industrial hubs of Hornby and Islington. Whether you are driving a line-haul unit or a local delivery van, we are likely on your route. Ample parking is available (though maybe park the B-Train on the street!).

2. Occupational Health Expertise Our Medical Director, Dr Bernard Teo, has advanced training in Occupational Medicine. We don't just "tick boxes"; we understand the specific physical demands of the transport sector. If you have a medical issue, we focus on solutions—helping you manage your health so you can stay employed and safe on the road.

3. Competitive Pricing We offer transparent pricing for Driver's Licence Medicals:

• Standard DL9 Medical (Under 65): $110.00
• Standard DL9 Medical (Age 65+): $145.00
• Note: Additional charges apply if specific blood tests or ECGs are required.