HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers are responsible for transporting goods and materials across the UK and sometimes into Europe. The role involves driving large lorries, often over long distances, ensuring goods reach their destination safely and on time. HGV drivers must follow strict safety and driving regulations, perform routine vehicle checks, and often assist with loading and unloading cargo. To become an HGV driver, you must obtain a special licence (usually a Cat C or C+E licence) and pass both theory and practical tests. The job offers a good level of independence and can be suited to those who enjoy being on the road and working with minimal supervision. There is a strong demand for qualified drivers, making it a stable career choice with opportunities for overtime and progression.
HGV drivers in the UK typically earn between £28,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are currently around 60,000 vacancies for HGV drivers across the UK, reflecting a significant demand for this role.
HGV drivers usually work between 40 and 55 hours per week, with shifts that may include nights, weekends, and bank holidays.
Responsible for transporting fuel and hazardous liquids safely to petrol stations and other facilities, requiring additional safety training.
Specialises in driving lorries that transport temperature-sensitive goods such as food and medicines, ensuring proper handling and timely delivery.
Transports new and used vehicles between manufacturers, dealerships, and auction sites using specially designed lorries.
Ensure you are at least 18 years old and hold a full UK car driving licence (category B).
To begin training as an HGV driver, you must be at least 18 years old. You also need a full UK car driving licence (category B). If you do not already have a car licence, you will need to apply and pass the relevant tests before moving on to HGV-specific training.
Pass a medical examination to prove you are fit to drive heavy vehicles.
You must complete a medical examination carried out by a doctor. This assessment checks your eyesight, general health, and ability to safely handle large vehicles. The doctor will fill out a DVLA D4 medical form which must be submitted with your HGV licence application.
Submit the D2 and D4 forms to the DVLA to obtain a provisional HGV (Category C or C+E) licence.
The D2 application form and D4 medical form are available from the DVLA or most driving schools. Once your provisional licence is approved, you can start practical training for HGV driving.
Enrol in an approved HGV driver training course to learn vehicle operation and safety.
Training courses teach you how to operate large vehicles safely and prepare you for the practical and theory tests. These courses are offered by specialist driving schools and can last from one to several weeks, depending on your schedule and prior experience.
Successfully complete the HGV theory and practical driving tests.
You must pass a multiple-choice theory test, a hazard perception test, and a practical driving test. The practical test covers vehicle safety questions, off-road exercises, and on-road driving ability.
Obtain the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), required for all professional HGV drivers.
The initial Driver CPC includes four parts: theory test, case studies, practical driving test, and a practical demonstration test. Passing all parts gives you your Driver CPC card, which you must carry while driving professionally.
Complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years to keep your CPC valid.
To maintain your Driver CPC, you need to take 35 hours of training every five years. This ensures your skills and knowledge stay up to date, and is mandatory to continue working as an HGV driver.
Look for job opportunities with logistics companies, freight firms, or haulage businesses.
Many companies regularly recruit licensed HGV drivers. Check online job boards, recruitment agencies, and company websites. Entry-level positions may include local deliveries, with opportunities to progress to long-distance or international roles.
Build experience, consider specialising in different types of transport, or aim for higher licence categories.
With experience, you can move into roles that involve transporting hazardous materials, driving larger or more complex vehicles, or even training new drivers. Some HGV drivers go on to become transport managers or logistics coordinators.
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 roles involve operating large vehicles, often on public roads, and require similar licences and safety awareness. The primary difference is the type of vehicle and route, but the skills and qualifications are closely aligned.
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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