HGV Training

What is HGV Training?

HGV training is a crucial step for anyone looking to drive heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) in the UK. This training equips aspiring drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate vehicles that exceed 3.5 tonnes. If you love driving and seek a rewarding career, understanding HGV training is essential. In this guide, we will explore what HGV training entails, the time it takes to complete, its costs, and how you can obtain your licence.

WHAT IS HGV?

A Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) refers to a large truck or lorry, primarily used in the transportation of goods. To operate these vehicles, drivers must obtain specific licenses that categorize vehicles by weight and type. While “HGV” is a common term in the UK, the European Union often refers to them as Large Goods Vehicles (LGVs). HGV training is designed to prepare individuals for the responsibilities of driving these vehicles safely and efficiently.

Benefits of HGV Training

Investing in HGV training offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it opens the door to a stable career with a high demand for drivers across the UK. HGV drivers enjoy the opportunity to explore various locations, and the potential for a lucrative salary makes this profession attractive. Additionally, career growth opportunities are vast, allowing drivers to specialize in different areas of logistics and transportation.

Qualifications Needed for HGV Training

To qualify for HGV training, applicants must meet several requirements:

  1. Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
  2. Provisional License: A valid provisional driving license is necessary.
  3. Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC): This professional certification is essential for anyone looking to drive HGVs legally.

To summarize, prospective HGV drivers should hold a valid car driving license and complete the required CPC training to ensure they meet industry standards.

Categories of HGV Training

The HGV licensing system consists of various categories, including:

  • Category C: For vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with a trailer up to 750 kg.
  • Category C+E: For any rigid vehicle with a trailer over 750 kg.
  • Category C1: For vehicles between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes, with a trailer up to 750 kg.
  • Category C1+E: For vehicles between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes with a trailer over 750 kg.

Understanding these categories is essential for prospective drivers, as it helps determine the type of vehicle they are licensed to operate.

HGV Truck

How to Obtain Your HGV License?

The process to obtain an HGV license involves several steps:

  1. Apply for a Provisional License: Start by applying for a provisional license.
  2. Pass Required Tests: This includes a medical examination, theory tests, and practical skills tests.
    • Medical Examination: Ensures that you meet health standards.
    • Theory Test: A multiple-choice test covering road safety, vehicle maintenance, and legal obligations.
    • Hazard Perception Test: Evaluates your ability to recognize and react to road hazards.
    • CPC Case Study: Required for those who didn’t pass their car test before January 1, 1997.
    • Practical Skills Test: Demonstrates your driving abilities through a practical assessment.

These steps basically are called the 4 modules of the test. 

Renewing Your HGV License

To maintain your HGV license, it must be renewed every five years. If you’re under 45, you’ll need to fill out the D47PU form; if you’re over 45, the D4 form is necessary. The renewal process involves medical checks to ensure ongoing fitness to drive. The DVLA will send you a renewal application approximately 56 days before your license expires.

WHat are the Costs of HGV LICENCE/Training?

The cost of HGV training can vary significantly based on the type of license pursued, ranging from approximately £1,400 to £7,000. For example, the cost for:

  • Car to Artic: £2,695 for those upgrading from cat B licence to C+E.
  • Category C: £1,695
  • Category C+E: £1,595 for those upgrading from a current Cat C license.
  • Category C1: £950
  • Cateory C1+E: £1195

     

Government Funding for HGV Training

In some cases, the government offers programs like Skills Bootcamps provide free training courses lasting up to 16 weeks, while apprenticeships allow trainees to earn while they learn. Vocational qualifications may also receive funding, particularly in England. If you need more information about these training providers you can visit this link.

HGV Licence

Conclusion

HGV training is a vital step for anyone aspiring to drive heavy goods vehicles. With a structured approach, anyone can achieve their HGV license and embark on a rewarding career. The benefits, including job security and competitive salaries, make HGV training a worthwhile investment. If you’re ready to take the next step, explore your local training options and begin your journey towards becoming a professional driver.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How Long Does It Take to Become an HGV Driver?

The journey to becoming an HGV driver typically takes between 6 to 8 months. This timeframe can vary based on individual circumstances, including the type of license pursued and the availability of training programs. Factors such as personal commitment and the frequency of training sessions also play a role in the duration.
 

Is it worth doing HGV training?

If you have a passion for driving and enjoy the idea of being on the road, HGV training is undoubtedly worth pursuing. The role offers a diverse range of job opportunities, allowing drivers to find positions that suit their lifestyle, whether that involves local driving or long-distance hauls. Additionally, the return on investment is favorable; the costs associated with training can be quickly recouped through competitive salaries and ongoing job demand.

What qualifications do I need to be an HGV driver?

To become an HGV driver, you need to be at least 18 years old, hold a valid provisional license, and obtain a Driver CPC.

Do HGV Drivers get paid a lot?

The average salary for an HGV driver in the UK is typically in the range of £25,000 to £35,000 per year. However, the exact amount an HGV driver can earn can be influenced by many factors.

Do I need a medical to renew my HGV license?

Yes, a medical check is required to renew your HGV license, and you’ll receive a renewal application D47PU from DVLA approximately 56 days before your license expires. But if you are older than 45 years then you need to fill out D4 form and send it to DVLA.

 

Looking for FURTHER INFO ON TRAINING?

 

If you want to find broker free HGV training providers near your area in UK, you can use our locator for further information.

 

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