Professional driving is a big part of the transport industry and there’s opportunities in many sectors such as freight and passenger transport. There are different categories of licences for HGV and bus drivers, which dictate the specific vehicles a driver is permitted to operate. HGV and Bus driving may seem similar but they are two different jobs with different licence categories, training requirements and job responsibilities. This guide explains the key differences and requirements for LGV or Bus drivers.
Understanding HGV and LGV Licences
HGV and LGV lorry licences are often used interchangeably, but it’s essential to understand the differences between them. HGV stands for Heavy Goods Vehicle, while LGV stands for Large Goods Vehicle. Both licences allow you to drive commercial trucks with a gross vehicle weight of over 3,500 kg. However, the main difference lies in the terminology used, not the type of vehicle they allow you to drive.
In the UK, the correct spelling for Licence is with a ‘c’, but ‘License’ is also widely used. The LGV licence and HGV licence are the same licence under UK and European law. The licence covers commercial trucks with a gross combination mass of over 3500kg. Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of under 3500kg can be driven with a car driving licence (category ‘B’ entitlement).
Licence Categories
To drive professionally you need the right lorry licence for your chosen vehicle. Here are the licence categories for HGV drivers:
- LGV Category C1 Licence: Allows you to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes but under 7.5 tonnes. This is also known as a C1 lorry licence.
- LGV Category C Licence: For vehicles over 7.5 tonnes and up to 32 tonnes. Pass this test and you can also drive a C1 vehicle.
- Class 2 HGV Licence: Another name for a C licence, allows you to drive rigid vehicles up to 32 tonnes. This is also referred to as a class 2 lorry licence.
- C+E Licence: For articulated vehicles which can weigh up to 44 tonnes. These vehicles bend in the middle so are suitable for carrying large loads.
For bus driving the main licence is the PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) licence which is all about passenger transport safety and operational standards.
Getting a Licence: Medical Standards to Get
The process for getting an HGV licence is long and involves several steps:
- Provisional Entitlement: Apply to the DVLA for provisional entitlement to drive a lorry. You will need to meet higher medical standards than car drivers. This includes applying for a class 2 lorry licence or an HGV lorry licence, which allows you to drive vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes and up to 32 tonnes.
- Theory Tests: Pass three theory tests:
- Multiple Choice
- Hazard Perception
- Driver CPC Case Studies
- Practical Training and Testing: Complete around 5 days of practical training and then:
- CPC Module 4: All about safety.
- Practical Driving Test: To show off your skills on the road.
- Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC): Required for professional lorry drivers to comply with industry regulations and road safety standards.
For bus drivers the licensing process is to get a PCV licence, similar theory tests and practical training for passenger safety.
HGV Training and Costs
Training costs for LGV or HGV licences can range from £1,000 to £3,000. Location, training school and what’s included in the course will affect the cost. Research thoroughly to find the best course for you.
- HGV Training Network: With over 50 centres across the UK this network offers flexible and comprehensive training for new drivers.
Bus driver training can also vary in cost but will often include extra passenger management and safety procedures.
Medical and Insurance Requirements
To obtain an HGV or LGV licence, you must meet specific medical and insurance requirements. You must apply to the DVLA for the provisional entitlement to drive a lorry and meet higher medical standards to get your HGV or LGV licence. This includes passing a medical examination and obtaining insurance that covers you to drive a commercial vehicle.
It’s essential to research thoroughly and compare insurance providers to ensure you get the best coverage for your needs. Additionally, you must ensure that your vehicle is properly insured and meets the necessary safety standards.
Job Responsibilities and Salary
Lorry drivers and truck drivers, including HGV and LGV drivers, have similar job responsibilities:
- Drive commercial vehicles safely and efficiently.
- Follow industry regulations including gross vehicle weight limits.
- Secure goods in transit.
Salaries for HGV drivers vary depending on experience, location and employer. New drivers can expect to earn between £25,000 and £30,000 per year, experienced drivers up to £45,000 or more.
Bus drivers have different responsibilities:
- Transport passengers to their destination safely.
- Manage schedules and be on time.
- Ensure passenger safety and comfort during the journey.
Bus driver salaries range from £22,000 to £30,000 with scope to earn more in urban areas or with additional qualifications.
HGV vs Bus Driving
Although both require professional licences and CPC, there are big differences:
- Vehicle: HGV driving is about moving goods, often long distance. Bus driving is about passenger transport. Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) are classified based on weight, which impacts licensing requirements.
- Training Focus: HGV training is about load safety and goods movement, bus driver training is about passenger safety, interaction and comfort. Aspiring HGV drivers must focus on specific training for handling heavy goods vehicles.
- Licensing: HGV drivers need LGV or C+E licence, bus drivers need a PCV licence. The licensing options for an HGV driver include various categories that cater to different vehicle weights and types.
Industry Regulations and Compliance
UK regulations follow EU standards for road safety and professional accountability:
- Unified Licence Categories: Since 1992 the UK has had unified licence categories so HGV and LGV are no longer distinguishable for regulatory purposes. This change was made to align with European licence categories.
- Driver CPC: This is required for both HGV and bus drivers to comply with safety and operational standards. The difference between LGV and HGV is that there is no longer any distinction between the two, as both terms now refer to the same category of vehicle of over 3.5 tonnes.
- Medical Standards: Drivers must meet strict medical requirements to get and keep their licences.
Maintaining a HGV or LGV Licence
To maintain your HGV or LGV licence, you must complete periodic training of 35 hours every 5 years. This training is designed to ensure that you stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and safety standards. You must also ensure that your vehicle is properly maintained and meets the necessary safety standards.
It’s also essential to keep your licence up-to-date and ensure that you have the necessary endorsements to drive the type of vehicle you want to drive. For example, if you want to drive a vehicle with a trailer, you will need to obtain a C+E endorsement on your licence.
In summary, understanding HGV and LGV licences is crucial for anyone looking to drive commercial trucks. Meeting the medical and insurance requirements and maintaining your licence through periodic training are essential to ensure that you stay safe on the road and comply with the necessary regulations.
Career Progression
Both HGV and bus driving offer career progression:
- HGV Drivers: With experience you can move into transport manager, logistics coordinator or fleet manager roles. Additional training can qualify you for specialist roles such as hazardous goods or oversized loads. Understanding the different HGV classes, such as HGV Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3, is crucial as these have evolved into the current Category C and Category C+E licenses, which are essential for career advancement.
- Bus Drivers: Opportunities include supervisory roles, scheduling coordinators or even move to HGV driving with the right licence.
Continued professional development and networking in the industry can lead to higher paid and specialist roles.
Summary
Whatever your choice HGV driving goods or bus driving passengers, you need to know the differences and requirements. Historically, vehicles were classified as light goods vehicles if their gross weight was below 3,500 kg, impacting licensing and tax liabilities. Both are stable employment, good salaries and career progression. Get the right licence, do the CPC training and follow industry regulations and you’ll be ready to go.
