Right, folks...
Never thought this moment would arrive, but here I am one month before the end of the ban and "fresh off the press" or shall I say pressURE of having a medical.
I've scared myself senseless reading some previous posts, but frankly I thought the medical was a walk in a park.
OK, so I paid £112.80 (£96 + VAT). And when I called to book the appointment the nice receptionist lady asked me to bring the exact money as they don't normally keep change on premises. Don't know if it's part of the punishment and if you're always asked to bring the right money but they definitely didn't accept cheques. You need to provide two proofs of ID, one being the referral from DVLA and the other your passport or anything bearing your photo.
Now, for those of you who know Greater London area: I live in Thornton Heath and the NEAREST doctor to where I live was deemed to be in Kingston-on-Thames. Slight inconvenience as it took me 1.5 hrs to get there. I'd fly if I could!
I've been handed a vial at reception - they examine your wee as well. The doc will test it there and then for unwanted substances. I've passed this one-phew!
Physical consisted of weighing & measuring, eye test, checking the eyes, feeling my tummy (on the liver side), checking my palms and hands for signs of addiction (no trembles) and listening to my chest. I sincerely hope that this is a standard procedure and I wasn't asked to take my top off by the male doctor just because he somehow sensed I acquired a new bra recently... ;-)))
Most of the physical examination actually took place after the questionnaire, which consisted of questions such as how much alcohol you consume in the week, how many days of the week do you drink, have you been treated for alcohol related deseases, have you had alcohol related couselling, have you had an accident related to drinking, does drinking affect your family and professional life etc.
And then he takes your blood....talk about leaches.
And from then on...it's another wait.
But I have to say that this particular doctor made the wole experience quite pleasant. Hope that DVLA will be equally pleasant in returning my licence which is due back on the 21st of July.
I'll let you know...