Find Training to Become a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Driver in the UK

1st July 2023

Looking to start your journey as an HGV driver in the UK? Find out everything you need to know, from the basics of the transport industry to the best HGV training programmes available today.

The Appeal of HGV Driving

There's a reason why the demand for HGV drivers in the UK remains high. It's a profession that offers great job security, competitive pay, and the chance to travel all over the country, making it an attractive career path for many. Furthermore, with the need for transporting goods and services remaining consistently high, it's an industry that is robust against economic downturns.

What Exactly is a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV)?

In the UK, an HGV, also known as a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV), refers to any vehicle that has a gross weight of over 3.5 tonnes. These include trucks, lorries, and freight carriers that transport goods across the country.

Becoming an HGV Driver: The Basics

License Requirements

Aspiring HGV drivers need to obtain the appropriate license to drive these vehicles legally. In the UK, this is known as the Category C or C+E license, depending on the type of vehicle you'll be driving.

Medical Checks

As an HGV driver, you'll also need to pass a medical check to ensure you're fit to drive. This includes checks on your vision, hearing, and overall physical health.

Essential Skills for an HGV Driver

Aside from the necessary licensing and medical requirements, there are several essential skills that all successful HGV drivers need. These include a keen sense of direction, excellent driving skills, and the ability to work independently.

A Comprehensive Guide to HGV Training Programmes

Apply for the provisional HGV licence entitlement
The first step to gaining a truck licence, the category C licence (Class 2) is to apply for the provisional on your current car licence.

To do this, you must fill out a D2 and D4 form, one is general information and the other is a basic medical which must be completed by a doctor.

LGV / HGV Driver Training

The first step towards becoming an HGV driver is to undergo driver training. This involves learning how to operate an HGV safely and efficiently, with an emphasis on road safety and vehicle maintenance.

CPC Training

In addition to driver training, you'll also need to complete a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training. This is a legal requirement for all professional HGV drivers in the UK and focuses on improving driving skills, understanding road safety laws, and maintaining a professional attitude on the job.

Driver Skills Enhancement Training

For those looking to advance their careers, skills enhancement training is a great way to further improve your driving skills and expand your job prospects. This could include training in eco-driving, advanced vehicle control, or ADR training for transporting hazardous goods.

Cost of HGV Training in the UK

Training to become an HGV driver can be a significant investment. Costs vary depending on the specific course and training provider, but you can expect to pay between £1000 and £3000 for a comprehensive training programme.

Top HGV Training Centres in the UK

CRH Training is one of the largest and most well-known training providers in the UK. They offer a wide range of courses for both beginners and experienced drivers.

Career Prospects and Advancement for HGV Drivers

Once you've completed your training and obtained your HGV license, commercial driving offers lots of opportunities. Whether you're interested in long-haul driving, working for a specific industry, or even starting your own transport business, there are plenty of routes to choose from.

Work-Life Balance as an HGV Driver

While being an HGV driver can be a rewarding career, it's important to consider the impact it can have on your work-life balance. As a driver, you may need to spend extended periods away from home, work irregular hours, and adapt to a new lifestyle.

The Reality of Life on the Road

Being an HGV driver is more than just a job, it's a way of life. The open road becomes your office, the cab becomes your second home, and the journey becomes your routine.

Challenges Faced by HGV Drivers

Like any profession, being an HGV driver comes with its own set of challenges. These can range from dealing with traffic and weather conditions, maintaining focus during long drives, and handling the physical demands of the job.

Health and Safety Considerations for HGV Drivers

When it comes to HGV driving, safety is paramount. It's important to be aware of the health and safety considerations involved, from ensuring your vehicle is suitable condition to following strict regulations on driving hours and rest periods.

The Role of HGV Drivers in the UK Economy

HGV drivers play a vital role in the UK economy, transporting goods and services across the country and keeping the wheels of commerce turning. Without them, many sectors would not be able to operate.

Government Schemes Supporting HGV Training

Apprenticeships

For those looking to start their HGV driving career, government-supported apprenticeships can provide valuable training and experience. These programmes combine on-the-job training with classroom learning, helping you to gain the skills you need while earning a wage.

Grants and Funding

There are also various grants and funding schemes available to help cover the cost of HGV training. These can be a great way to reduce the financial burden of training and help you get on the road faster.

FAQs

1. What qualifications do I need to become an HGV driver?

To become an HGV driver in the UK, you'll need to obtain a Category C or C+E licence, depending on the type of vehicle you'll be driving. You'll also need to complete a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training course, and pass a medical check to ensure you're fit to drive.

2. How long does it take to train as an HGV driver?

The length of training can vary depending on the specific course and training provider. However, most comprehensive HGV driver training programmes can be completed in a few weeks to a few months.

3. How much does it cost to train as an HGV driver?

The cost of HGV driver training can vary, but you can typically expect to pay between £1000 and £3000 for a comprehensive training programme.

4. What is the job outlook for HGV drivers in the UK?

The demand for HGV drivers in the UK remains high, with plenty of job opportunities available across the country.

5. Are there any government schemes to support HGV training?

Yes, there are several government-supported schemes to help individuals train as HGV drivers. This includes apprenticeships, which combine on-the-job training with classroom learning, as well as various grants and funding schemes to help cover the cost of training.

To book an HGV Training Course, or for further information, please contact CRH Training on 0121 553 3184.