HGV drivers, also known as Heavy Goods Vehicle drivers, are responsible for transporting goods across the UK and sometimes internationally. They drive large vehicles such as lorries and trucks, ensuring that cargo is delivered safely and on time. The job involves long periods on the road, checking vehicle safety, loading and unloading goods, and completing delivery paperwork. HGV drivers must hold a special licence (Category C or C+E), and good communication and time management skills are important. This career is crucial for keeping supply chains moving, and there is currently a high demand for new drivers.
The average salary for HGV drivers in the UK is between £28,000 and £40,000 per year, with some experienced drivers earning up to £45,000.
As of 2023, there were over 60,000 HGV driver vacancies in the UK, reflecting high demand for qualified drivers.
HGV drivers typically work between 40 and 55 hours per week, and shifts may include nights, weekends, and bank holidays.
Specialises in transporting fuel and hazardous liquids, requiring additional safety training and qualifications.
Transports perishable goods such as food and pharmaceuticals in temperature-controlled vehicles.
Operates vehicles that deliver loose materials such as sand, gravel, or demolition waste to construction sites.
You must be at least 18 years old and hold a full UK car driving licence (category B) before you can start training to become an HGV driver.
The minimum age to drive an HGV professionally is 18, though some employers may prefer you to be 21 or over. A clean driving record will increase your chances of securing a training placement or job.
Arrange a medical examination with a GP to prove you are fit to drive large vehicles. This is required by law.
You will need to complete a D4 medical form, which your doctor will fill in after assessing your health. This checks eyesight, blood pressure, and overall fitness to ensure you can safely operate heavy goods vehicles.
Apply for a provisional Category C or C+E licence, which allows you to train in lorries over 3.5 tonnes.
You can apply for the provisional licence from the DVLA by submitting the D2 and completed D4 forms. The provisional licence allows you to begin practical training.
Undergo CPC training, which is required for all professional lorry drivers. This involves theory and practical tests.
The CPC consists of four parts: theory, case studies, driving ability, and practical demonstration. Passing all four parts is necessary to obtain your CPC qualification card. You must also complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years to keep this up to date.
Look for entry-level HGV driving jobs with logistics companies, supermarkets, or haulage firms.
Job opportunities can be found on online job boards, company websites, and through recruitment agencies specialising in logistics. Be prepared to start with local or regional routes before moving on to long-distance or international work.
Build your skills by working in the industry, learning about different routes, types of cargo, and vehicle handling.
Experience will help you develop confidence and competence in handling large vehicles, understanding delivery schedules, and working with company procedures. It can also open doors to higher-paying roles and specialist driving positions, such as hazardous goods (ADR) transport.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in HGV Driver. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
Both HGV driver and bus or coach driver require the operation of large vehicles, adherence to safety regulations, and the need for a valid commercial driving licence. They share similar skills related to vehicle control, navigation, and passenger or cargo management.
You can get into this job through:
You can apply to do a Passenger Transport Driver Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, with a bus or coach company.
You will need to hold at least a Category B (car driving licence) to start training.
The apprenticeship typically takes 12 months to complete and combines workplace training with off-the-job study.
You'll usually need:
You can apply to bus or coach companies and train on the job.
Most companies will expect you to have a at least 6 months' car driving experience.
You would be put through Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) driver training that normally lasts between 1 and 6 weeks.
Your employer will also give you training for the Certificate of Professional Competence or Driver CPC.
Some travel companies offer contracts where you receive a daily rate until the job is complete. For example, it might be driving passengers on a coaching holiday. In cases like these, the rates can be from £120 a day upwards.
You can find out how to become a qualified bus driver on GOV.UK.
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