age for hgv licence
Driving a lorry can be a rewarding career, offering good pay, travel opportunities, and job security. However, if you’re considering a career as a lorry driver, one of the first questions you might have is: what is the minimum age requirement? In this post, we’ll explore the age requirements for lorry drivers in the UK, the process to obtain a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) license, and what aspiring drivers should know before hitting the road.
Understanding Lorry Driving in the UK
Lorry drivers, or HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers, are essential to the UK’s economy, transporting goods across the country and beyond. The demand for skilled drivers continues to grow, especially with recent disruptions in supply chains. According to the Road Haulage Association, the UK faces a shortage of around 60,000 drivers, which underscores the importance of attracting new talent to the industry. However, before you can take the wheel of a lorry, you need to meet certain requirements, including age restrictions.
Minimum Age Requirements FOR DRIVING LORRY
In the UK, the minimum age to hold a full HGV license is 18 years old. This means that you can begin the process of obtaining your HGV license at 18, allowing you to drive larger vehicles and transport goods professionally. However, if you want to drive larger vehicles, such as those over 7.5 tonnes, you’ll need to ensure that you meet specific requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an HGV license.
- Provisional License: You need a provisional driving license before you can start your HGV training.
- Medical Examination: A medical examination is required to ensure you meet health standards for driving heavy vehicles.
- Theory Test: Passing the HGV theory test is mandatory.
- Practical Driving Test: You must also pass a practical driving test to obtain your license.
Why the Age Limit for HGV Licence?
The age requirement is in place for several reasons:
- Safety: Driving a lorry requires a high level of responsibility and skill. Younger drivers may lack the experience necessary to handle larger vehicles safely.
- Regulations: Regulations are designed to ensure that drivers meet specific competency levels, which typically correlate with age and experience.
- Insurance: Insurance companies often impose age restrictions due to the higher risk associated with younger drivers.
HGV Licensing Process
Step 1: Obtain a Provisional License
Before you can start your journey towards becoming a lorry driver, you must first obtain a provisional driving license. You can apply for this through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Step 2: Medical Examination
Once you have your provisional license, the next step is to undergo a medical examination. This ensures that you meet the necessary health standards to drive an HGV. The examination will assess your vision, hearing, and overall physical condition. It’s important to be honest during this examination, as any undisclosed medical conditions could impact your ability to drive safely.
Step 3: Theory Test
After passing your medical, you will need to take and pass the HGV theory test. This test covers a variety of topics, including road signs, regulations, and safe driving practices. It’s crucial to prepare thoroughly, as this knowledge is essential for safe driving. Many driving schools offer study materials and practice tests to help you succeed.
Step 4: Practical Training
Once you’ve passed your theory test, you can start practical training with a qualified instructor. This training is vital, as it teaches you how to operate an HGV safely and effectively. Training typically includes:
- Vehicle control
- Maneuvering techniques
- Safety checks
- Handling emergencies
Step 5: Practical Driving Test
After completing your training, you will take the practical driving test. This test assesses your ability to operate an HGV safely in real-world conditions. Successful completion of this test will grant you your HGV license.

hgv age restrictions
While you can obtain an HGV license at 18, there are certain restrictions for drivers under 21:
- Category C License: Drivers aged 18-20 can drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes but under 7.5 tonnes. However, driving vehicles over 7.5 tonnes is restricted until you turn 21.
- Restrictions on Certain Jobs: Some employers may have their own age restrictions, particularly for roles that require driving larger vehicles or long-distance hauls.
Advantages of Being a Young Lorry Driver
Becoming a lorry driver at a young age has its benefits:
- Career Opportunities: The demand for lorry drivers is high, meaning job opportunities are abundant. Companies are actively seeking young talent to fill the gap left by retiring drivers.
- Training and Support: Many companies offer training programs for young drivers, helping you gain the necessary skills and experience.
- Good Earnings: Lorry driving can provide a stable income, with many drivers earning competitive salaries. The average salary for an HGV driver in the UK ranges from £28,000 to £45,000, depending on experience and the type of work.
Challenges Faced by Young Lorry Drivers
While there are advantages, young drivers also face challenges:
- Experience Gap: Lack of experience can lead to difficulties in navigating complex driving situations, especially on busy roads and in adverse weather conditions.
- Insurance Costs: Young drivers may face higher insurance premiums, which can be a financial burden. Some companies may cover these costs as part of their employment package.
- Job Limitations: Some employers may prefer hiring more experienced drivers for long-haul or challenging routes, potentially limiting opportunities for younger drivers.
Industry Insights
The logistics and transportation industry is undergoing significant changes, driven by technology and evolving consumer demands. Here are a few trends affecting young drivers:
- Increased Automation: While full automation of lorry driving is still years away, technology such as GPS and driver-assistance systems is becoming more prevalent. Understanding these technologies can give young drivers a competitive edge.
- Sustainability Initiatives: With a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, many logistics companies are investing in greener vehicles and practices. Young drivers who are knowledgeable about eco-friendly practices may find themselves in demand.
- Flexible Working Conditions: The rise of gig economy platforms has led to more flexible working conditions in the logistics sector. Young drivers may have opportunities for freelance work, offering them greater control over their schedules.
Additional Resources
If you’re considering a career as a lorry driver, there are several resources available to support you:
- Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA): Offers information on licensing, tests, and regulations.
- Road Haulage Association (RHA): Provides resources and support for drivers and employers in the logistics sector.
- Local Driving Schools: Many driving schools offer HGV training programs tailored for young drivers.
- Online Forums and Communities: Joining forums can connect you with other drivers, providing valuable insights and advice.
Tips for Aspiring Young Lorry Drivers
If you’re considering a career as a lorry driver, here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Research Training Schools: Look for reputable driving schools that specialize in HGV training. Read reviews and seek recommendations to find the best fit for your needs.
- Network: Connect with other drivers and professionals in the industry to gain insights and advice. Networking can also lead to job opportunities.
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with industry regulations and developments to enhance your knowledge and skills. Subscribe to industry newsletters and follow relevant news sources.
- Gain Experience: Consider starting with smaller vehicles to build your confidence and experience before transitioning to larger lorries. Some companies offer apprenticeship programs that can provide hands-on experience.
Conclusion
Age for HGV licence in the UK is 18, allowing young individuals to embark on a fulfilling career in the logistics sector. While there are challenges, the demand for skilled drivers makes it an attractive option for those willing to put in the effort. If you meet the requirements and are passionate about driving, pursuing a career as a lorry driver could be a rewarding journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old do you have to be to drive a 7.5 tonne lorry?
You must be at least 18 years old to drive a 7.5 tonne lorry in the UK.
What are the Age Restrictions for HGV Licences?
You can driver a lorry at the age of 18 but there were some categories that required you to be atleast 21 years old like category C, but this restriction was removed recently.
What is the minimum age requirement for HGV Class 2 and HGV Class 1?
You can driver a lorry at the age of 18 which is true for both classes of HGV.
Is free training available for young drivers?
There are some companies that may provide free training program in exchange of mandatory job for few years. Government of UK also provides free training in form of Skillboot camps but for that you have to be 19 years old minimum with some other requirements.
Looking for FURTHER INFO ON TRAINING?

ADD YOUR HGV
TRAINING COMPANY
Joining the UK’s biggest online commercial transport training network could not be easier.