What Is a DL9 Medical and How Do You Get One?

If you are applying for or renewing a Class 2, 3, 4 or 5 driver’s licence in New Zealand, chances are you have been told you need to complete a DL9 medical. For many drivers, especially those working in transport or logistics, this is a routine part of the licensing process. But if you are new to it, the details can feel a bit confusing. At Habit Health, we work with drivers across Aotearoa every week who need a DL9 medical. Here is everything you need to know, from what to expect to how to book.

By Amy Stryjewski, BSN, RN – Senior Occupational Health Nurse at Habit Health

When do you need a DL9 medical certificate?

You will usually need a DL9 medical if:

• You are applying for your first Class 2 to 5 driver’s licence
• You are renewing an existing heavy vehicle licence and have not submitted a medical recently
• You have had a health issue and NZTA has requested medical clearance before you can continue driving
• Your licence has been expired for a long time
• You are over a certain age and need to confirm ongoing fitness to drive

Not sure whether you need one? It is a good idea to check your licence class requirements on the Waka Kotahi website or contact your local licensing agent.

What does the DL9 medical involve?

The appointment is usually around 45 minutes and is carried out by one of our trained occupational health nurses. You will not need to change clothes or do anything physical like lifting or running — it is mainly about reviewing your general health and making sure it meets NZTA standards.

Here is what we typically check:

• Blood pressure
• Blood sugar levels
• Vision test (using a Snellen chart to check clarity, field of vision and whether corrective lenses are needed)
• Range of motion (to ensure you can safely check mirrors, turn the head, and react to hazards)
• Fatigue risk screening (especially for signs of conditions like sleep apnoea)
• Medical history review, including medications, chronic conditions, or previous surgeries

This is not a pass or fail test. If something pops up, we will talk through it and let you know the next steps. Sometimes you may need a referral to your GP or optometrist to provide further clearance.

What if I have an existing medical condition?

Having a health condition does not automatically mean you cannot get a DL9 medical certificate. Many drivers manage health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma and continue to meet fitness-to-drive standards.

That said, if you have certain conditions like epilepsy or insulin-dependent diabetes, you may need to have your medical done by your GP rather than through an occupational health nurse. Our team will ask a few screening questions before your appointment to make sure you are booked in for the right type of assessment.

If we find something new during your appointment, such as an elevated blood pressure reading or signs of vision change, we will give you clear guidance on what to do next.

What should I bring to the appointment?

You do not need to prepare much for your DL9 medical. Just bring:

• Your current driver’s licence or valid ID
• Any paperwork you were given by NZTA or your licensing agent
• Any glasses or contact lenses you wear for driving
• Information about current medications or medical conditions, if relevant

We will supply the official DL9 medical form, so you do not need to print it or fill it out in advance.

Where can I get a DL9 medical?

DL9 medicals are available at many Habit Health clinics across the country. Once the check is complete, we will fill out your official DL9 medical form and hand it over to you so you can submit it to NZTA as part of your licence application or renewal.

To book an appointment, get in touch with our team. We can usually find you a time quickly so you can stay on track with your licensing timeline.

Why DL9 medicals matter for drivers

Driving a heavy vehicle is very different from driving a car. It involves more responsibility, longer hours, and often more physical and mental strain. A DL9 medical helps confirm that you are safe to drive and manage those demands.

For most people, it is a straightforward sign-off. But for some, it can also be the thing that picks up an undiagnosed condition or health change before it becomes a bigger problem. That is why it is not just a legal requirement — it is also a helpful check-in for your own wellbeing.

Need a DL9 medical? 

Speak to your employer today and ask them to enquire with Habit Health about your DL9 Medical, or book directly at bookings@habit.health. We have 120+ clinics across New Zealand.