DVLA Medical Fitness Testing
When investigating your fitness to drive, the DVLA may ask you to have a medical examination or practical test. These tests will be used to look into a range of cardiac conditions and asses the electrical conduction, function, and structure of your heart to ensure that it is working well.
At Heartsure we are thoroughly equipped to undertake a range
of diagnostic tests that meet the DVLA's guidelines. Each of our
cardiac diagnostic tests are led by members of our specialist
cardiology team, which includes Consultants, Nurses, Physiologists,
and others.
Together, our team will help you get back on the road, whether you
drive professionally for TfL or other organisations, or you are
looking to recover your license after a cardiac event.
Our team has a wealth of experience with DVLA medical fitness
requirements and can help get you back to driving as soon as
possible.
Some of the tests that the DVLA might request are below.
Click on each one to find out more about the test:
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Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that looks at the structure of your heart and assesses whether the heart's chambers, valves, and muscles are functioning as they should. An echocardiogram can give a good indication of any coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, stenosis, or any other structural heart issues.
Exercise Tolerance Test: An Exercise Tolerance Test (otherwise known as an Exercise ECG) assesses the heart's response to physiological stress (an increase in workload). This test assesses the heart's electrical conduction through an electrocardiogram or ECG trace which is continuously running during the exercise test (A different test looks at the heart structure during exercise, see below). This test can give a good indication of any exercise-induced arrhythmias, angina, or coronary artery disease.
Stress Echocardiogram: A Stress Echocardiogram is a combination of an Echocardiogram and an Exercise Test in that the heart is put under physiological stress by exercising. However, this test looks closer at the structure of the heart muscle during exercise and assesses whether there are any structural changes to the heart on exertion, and if all the heart valves, chambers, and muscles move as they should. This test is used to look for any structural heart issues, indications of coronary artery disease, or stenosis.
12 Lead ECG: An Electrocardiogram is a simple test used to assess the electrical conduction of your heart. Electrodes are attached to your chest while you are resting on a bed. This test looks at the electrical signals produced by your heart from 12 different angles, and can give some very good indications about heart function, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms), any blockages, and much more. However, this test might need to be paired with another test above to give your doctor a clear indication of your heart's function.
Other Tests: depending on your condition, the DVLA or your Cardiologist may refer you for some other tests to get a better understanding of your heart health. These tests might include a CT Coronary angiogram to look for coronary artery disease, a longer period of ECG monitoring, and Blood Pressure testing, and might require some invasive testing. You can find out more about the services and tests that we offer by clicking here. To find out more about which test you will need, you can speak to the DVLA or contact a member of our team who will be happy to assist.
DVLA Medical Test Offer
Exercise Tolerance Test & LV Function (Echocardiogram) - £450.00
This offer is only valid for TfL, Professional Driver, and other DVLA medical fitness clients.
Please note: The LV function echocardiogram will be a short study to assess LVEF (Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction) only. For a full Echocardiogram, the full rate will apply.
An LV Echocardiogram cannot be arranged individually and must be in conjunction with an Exercise Test. For any further questions or queries, please get in touch.
DVLA Paperwork for Medical Fitness
If you have received paperwork from the DVLA regarding your medical fitness, you can send this to Heartsure or bring this with you to your appointment to be completed by our clinicians. If you need some advice before your appointment, please contact a member of the team who will be able to assist.
Send your DVLA form (using recorded delivery) to:
DVLA Team, Heartsure Cardiology Clinic, 1 Brunswick Road, Kingston-upon-Thames, KT2 6SB