From 20 July 2022, healthcare professionals other than doctors, including specialist nurses and opticians, can complete DVLA medical questionnaires when a driver has declared a medical condition. This change includes diabetes and is part of DVLA plans to improve and speed up the medical licensing process by reducing the burden on doctors.
Previously, only doctors registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) could complete the questionnaires. The changes will now allow medical professionals from the following Councils to complete the medical forms on behalf of doctors:
- General Chiropractic Council
- The General Optical Council
- The General Osteopathic Council
- The Nursing and Midwifery Council
- Health and Care Professions Council
Although there is no requirement for GP surgeries or hospital teams to make changes to their current processes, it is hoped that the changes will help alleviate the administrative burden on doctors.
The DVLA will continue to send questionnaires to GMC doctors and consultants, and it will then be up to individual GP practices and hospital teams as to which healthcare professional in practice is best placed to complete the form.
The change to the law does not apply to the D4 Medical Examination Report which will still need to be completed by a doctor or consultant who is registered with the GMC.
