What Is the LGV Provisional Licence?

Training to become a professional lorry driver is a multi-step process that includes obtaining a provisional licence. Also known as the provisional entitlement, the LGV provisional licence is the document that allows an individual to begin practical skills training with a company such as the HGV Training Centre. Without that provisional licence, it is not possible to get behind the wheel of a lorry to learn how to drive it.

To be clear, the Government makes no practical distinction between a large goods vehicle (LGV) and heavy goods vehicle (HGV) for the purposes of licencing. The same provisional entitlement is needed for both. The only difference in the two is the type of licence eventually granted at the time of the practical skills test. For this purpose, vehicles are classified according to their size and weight.

In order to get a provisional licence, one must submit two forms of paperwork: the D2 and D4 forms. The D2 form is an application for a professional driving licence; it is a form that can be obtained through the DVLA. The D4 is a medical reporting form that must be filled out by an NHS GP or approved private physician. This form simply says that the individual does not have any health issues that would disqualify him or her from driving safely.

The Application Process

Anyone can apply for an LGV provisional licence as long as the individual already possesses a full car licence and can pass a routine medical exam. The process is as follows:

1. The individual obtains the necessary forms; he or she fills out the D2 according to the provided instructions.
2. The individual has a routine medical exam wherein the doctor will fill out the D4 paperwork.
3. Both forms are submitted to the Government for review. The student begins studying for the LGV theory test.
4. Upon receipt of the provisional licence in the post, the individual can take the theory test.
5. Upon passage of the theory test, the individual can begin practical skills training.

Here at the HGV Training Centre, we can help you through the application process from start to finish. It is all part of the service we provide to prepare you for a career as a professional lorry driver. If you want to save a little money, you can handle all of the paperwork and theory test preparation on your own. Just come to us for your practical skills training.

The HGV Training Centre is one of the leading providers of commercial driver training in the UK. We have earned a reputation through our commitment to each of our students. When you train with us, you will be receiving classroom instruction and behind the wheel training from experienced professionals who know what they are doing.

Our intense and focused training approach helps you to learn and retain all of the information you need to know to pass your tests. What’s more, we can have you looking for work in a matter of weeks.

Sources:

1. UK – https://www.gov.uk/become-lorry-bus-driver/overview