The logistics industry is the lifeblood of the economy, getting goods and products from A to B. HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers are in high demand, moving big loads around towns, cities and borders. To be a professional HGV driver you need specialist training to stay safe on the road. In this guide we’ll cover the HGV training essentials, how to get an HGV licence, training options and earning potential for qualified drivers.
HGV Training
Starting a career as an HGV driver begins with training. Whether you’re switching careers or entering the logistics industry for the first time, you need to understand the requirements and benefits of HGV training.
It is crucial to select a reputable HGV training centre that offers quality training programs and practical skills.
What is HGV Training?
HGV training is a professional qualification that teaches individuals how to drive heavy goods vehicles safely and efficiently. It’s a compulsory requirement to become a licensed HGV driver in the UK.
The training covers:
- Theory sessions for road regulations and vehicle safety.
- Practical training for hands on experience with HGVs.
- Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) which is mandatory for professional drivers.
The average HGV training cost varies, but potential trainees can benefit from competitive pricing and potential savings with different training options.
HGV training means drivers are not only competent behind the wheel but also aware of the challenges of moving heavy goods.
Meeting the Basic Requirements for HGV Training
To embark on your journey as an HGV driver, you must first meet some basic requirements. Firstly, you need to be at least 18 years old and hold a valid UK car licence. This is essential as it forms the foundation of your driving experience. Additionally, you will need to obtain a medical certificate, which is a mandatory requirement for all HGV drivers. This medical examination ensures that you are physically fit to handle the demands of driving heavy goods vehicles. Once you have these prerequisites in place, you can apply for a provisional HGV licence, which will allow you to begin your training and take the first steps towards a rewarding career in HGV driving.
How to Get an HGV Licence
The process of getting an HGV licence involves several stages, starting with medicals and theory tests and ending with practical driving assessments.
1. HGV Medical and Theory Test
First up is a medical examination to ensure the candidate is physically fit to drive an HGV. This includes checks for vision, cardiovascular health and other conditions that could affect driving ability.
Next candidates must pass a theory test which includes:
- Multiple choice questions on road safety, vehicle maintenance and regulations.
- A hazard perception test to test the drivers ability to spot and react to hazards.
The theory test is key as it’s the foundation for practical training.
2. Practical HGV Training
Once the theory test is passed candidates move on to practical HGV training which is the meat of the training. Practical training sessions include:
- Vehicle handling techniques including reversing and tight turns.
- Coupling and uncoupling trailers safely and efficiently.
- Driving on different road types and conditions.
Practical training takes place in controlled environments such as HGV training centres and is conducted by experienced instructors. The aim is to get trainees confident and capable of handling the complexities of driving heavy goods vehicles.
Types of HGV Licences
There are several types of HGV licences, each tailored to different vehicle specifications and driving needs. Understanding these categories is crucial for choosing the right path in your HGV career.
- CAT C Licence: This licence permits you to drive rigid vehicles with a maximum authorized mass (MAM) of over 7.5 tons. It’s ideal for those looking to operate larger, non-articulated trucks.
- CAT C+E Licence: With this licence, you can drive articulated vehicles, also known as lorries, with a MAM of over 7.5 tons. This category is suitable for drivers who want to handle larger, more complex vehicle combinations.
- CAT C1 Licence: This licence allows you to drive vehicles with a MAM of between 3.5 and 7.5 tons. It’s perfect for those who wish to drive medium-sized trucks and delivery vehicles.
Each licence type has its own specific requirements and restrictions, so it’s important to choose the one that aligns with your career goals and the type of vehicles you wish to drive.
HGV Licence Categories
H G V licences are categorized based on the type of vehicle you are qualified to drive. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:
- Category C: This category covers rigid vehicles with a MAM of over 7.5 tons. It’s the most common licence for those looking to drive larger trucks.
- Category C+E: This licence allows you to drive articulated vehicles with a MAM of over 7.5 tons. It’s essential for those aiming to operate lorries and other articulated vehicles.
- Category C1: This category is for vehicles with a MAM of between 3.5 and 7.5 tons, suitable for medium-sized trucks and delivery vehicles.
Understanding these categories will help you determine the right licence for your professional driving aspirations.
HGV Training Options
When choosing an HGV training course you need to consider your budget, location and the training provider’s reputation. Understanding the costs and financing options will help make the process more manageable.
Additionally, for those aspiring to operate minibuses, buses, or coaches professionally, it is crucial to undergo PCV driver training courses provided by a reputable training organization.
Training Providers and Costs
There are many training providers across the UK offering HGV courses, costs range from £1,990 to £2,500. Choosing a reputable training centre is crucial for quality training and future job placement. The price usually includes:
- Medical.
- Theory test preparation and fees.
- CPC modules.
- Practical training.
- Pass protection and recruitment support.
It may seem expensive but it’s an investment in a high earning career. Research providers and compare packages to get the best value.
Finance Options
If you can’t pay upfront many providers offer flexible finance options. These may include:
- Payment plans to pay in installments.
- Loans to cover the cost of training which can be repaid once you’re employed.
Finance options make HGV training more accessible and allows individuals from all financial backgrounds to enter the profession.
Choosing the Right Training Program
Selecting the right training program is a critical step in becoming a successful HGV driver. Start by considering the type of vehicle you want to drive and the level of training you need. Research various training centres to find one with a strong reputation and a high pass rate. It’s also important to factor in the cost of the training program. While prices can vary, investing in a quality program is essential for your future career. Look for training centres that offer comprehensive packages, including theory and practical training, as well as support for passing the HGV test. By choosing the right program, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your HGV driving career.
Becoming a Professional HGV Driver
Once you’ve completed the training and got your licence you’ll need to meet more requirements to work as a professional HGV driver. You’ll need to get your Driver CPC.
Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)
The Driver C P C is a legal requirement for anyone driving HGVs for commercial use. It includes:
- A practical driving assessment to test your skills.
- A case study test to test your knowledge of real life scenarios.
The CPC ensures drivers are competent, responsible and ready for the demands of professional driving.
HGV Driver Earning Potential
One of the biggest incentives for becoming an HGV driver is the high earning potential. Salaries vary depending on experience, location and type of vehicles driven.
Salaries
- New drivers: £22,000 to £30,000 per year.
- Experienced drivers: £40,000 to £55,000 per year.
- Specialised roles (e.g. hazardous goods): Up to £60,000 per year.
As demand for qualified drivers increases many companies are offering competitive salaries, bonuses and extra perks to attract talent.
Job Placement
Once you’ve completed the training and got your licence finding a job as an HGV driver is easy. The logistics industry is short of qualified drivers so it’s a job seekers market.
Many training providers offer job placement services to connect graduates with employers. Some of the biggest logistics companies also have partnerships with training centres so a steady stream of qualified candidates into their workforce.
Becoming an HGV Instructor
If you’re an experienced HGV driver looking to take your career to the next level, becoming an HGV instructor could be a rewarding option. To qualify, you must have held a valid HGV licence for at least three years. A deep understanding of the HGV industry and the specific requirements of the job is essential. Effective communication skills are crucial, as you’ll need to convey complex information clearly to your students. Additionally, having a patient and calm demeanor will help you guide new drivers through their training. By meeting these qualifications, you can play a vital role in shaping the next generation of HGV drivers.
Qualifications and Requirements for HGV Instructors
To become an HGV instructor, you need to obtain a professional driving qualification called the Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This certification ensures you have the necessary skills and knowledge to train new drivers. You’ll also need to complete a training program approved by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This program includes both a theory test and a practical test to assess your teaching abilities and driving competence. By meeting these qualifications and requirements, you can embark on a fulfilling career as an HGV instructor, helping others achieve their professional driving goals.
Summary
HGV driving is a tough and rewarding career. With the right training you can gain the skills, knowledge and qualifications to succeed in this in demand profession. The steps to becoming a professional driver – from passing the theory test to completing practical training and getting your Driver C P C – are structured and accessible with many training providers and finance options.
And it’s not just the sense of achievement of learning a new skill. The financial rewards make it a very attractive career. Salaries from £22,000 to £60,000 per year. HGV driving offers stability and growth for those who are willing to put in the work.
If you want a career that’s independent, responsible and allows you to travel HGV training is the key. Get started today and drive towards a better future in the logistics industry!
