What medical tests do you need to renew your driver’s license? Complete guide 2025
Renewing your driver’s license is a mandatory procedure for all drivers, but many people are unclear about what the medical examination required by the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) consists of. What tests are done? What documents do you need to bring? Is it necessary to go to the Traffic Headquarters?
At Semedi Salud, a medical center authorized by the DGT, we perform medical examinations quickly, easily, and without waiting. In this guide, we resolve all your doubts about the procedure, so you arrive prepared and without surprises.
Why is the Medical Examination Compulsory for Driving?
The objective of the medical examination is to guarantee that drivers maintain their physical, mental, and sensory capacities in suitable conditions to drive safely.
This review is mandatory for:
- Renewing your driver’s license (permits AM, A1, A2, B, C, D, E, etc.)
- Obtaining a permit for the first time
- Recovering a withdrawn or suspended license
- Professional drivers, with more frequent renewals
The medical examination must be performed exclusively in approved centers, such as Semedi Salud, and is officially valid for the DGT.
What Medical Tests are Performed at Semedi Salud?
In our center, we perform a set of standardized tests that evaluate different aspects of the driver’s health. These tests may vary slightly depending on the type of permit, but in general, they include:
1. Evaluation of visual acuity
This is one of the most important tests. It evaluates whether the patient has good vision with or without glasses/contact lenses, both near and far, as well as binocular vision and depth perception.
Tip: if you wear glasses, bring them with you. It is important to declare if you need visual correction to drive.
2. Hearing test
Basic hearing ability is checked, especially in professional drivers. It is not necessary to have perfect hearing, but it is necessary to be able to perceive relevant sounds from the environment (sirens, acoustic signals, etc.).
3. Coordination and reflexes
Through a psychotechnical test with simulators or guided exercises, the ability to coordinate between eyes and hands, reaction time, and motor control is measured. This test is key to guaranteeing a safe response to risky situations on the road.
4. Blood pressure control and general check-up
Blood pressure is taken and the general state of health is reviewed. Relevant medical history (cardiovascular, neurological diseases, diabetes, etc.) and current treatments are also reviewed.
5. Basic psychological evaluation (when applicable)
In certain cases (drivers with psychiatric history, prolonged treatments, etc.), a brief interview or test is performed to assess the cognitive and emotional state of the driver.
All these tests are designed to protect your safety and that of other road users.
How Long Does it Take to Do the Medical Examination?
At Semedi Salud, the complete examination usually does not last more than 25 or 30 minutes. Our medical team is prepared to offer an agile, comfortable service without waiting.
In addition, we include:
- Official digital photograph, you don’t need to bring it yourself
- Direct sending of the report to the DGT (you avoid going to traffic)
- Provisional permit on the spot, valid for driving while the definitive one arrives
What Documentation should You Bring?
To make everything quick, remember to bring:
If You Renew your License:
- Valid DNI/NIE (National Identity Document/Foreigner Identity Number)
- Driver’s license (even if it is expired)
- Glasses/contact lenses if you use them
If it is your First Permit:
- DNI/NIE
- Glasses/contact lenses if you use them
It is not necessary to bring photos or come fasting. We manage everything.
Types of Permit and Renewal Frequency
The validity of the driver’s license depends on the type of permit and the age of the driver:
| Type of Permit | Validity up to 65 years | From 65 years |
|---|---|---|
| AM, A1, A2, B | 10 years | 5 years |
| C1, C, D1, D, E | 5 years | 3 years |
Professional drivers must renew more often and pass stricter examinations. At Semedi Salud we also serve fleets and companies, with special conditions.
What Happens if I Don’t Pass a Test?
You shouldn’t worry. If a specific medical limitation arises (for example, reduced vision in one eye or recent treatment), the doctor will evaluate your case and may issue a permit with restrictions (such as driving only with glasses) or for a reduced time.
In more complex cases, an additional report may be requested from your specialist or you may be referred to the DGT for a complementary assessment.
Renewing your License is Easy if You Know how to Do It
Performing the medical examination does not have to be complicated. At
Do You Have to Renew your Driver’s License?
Book your appointment now at Semedi Salud and forget about worries.
Book your appointment online here
We are located in the El Corte Inglés in Malaga.
