Path to Lorry Licence Laid out Very Simply

We have done our best here at the HGV Training Centre to make it as easy as possible to understand how to get a lorry licence. Numerous pages on our website go through the step-by-step process necessary to complete training and pass the required tests. Still, you might be a little confused. If so, we would like to direct you to a very helpful presentation offered by a logistics industry information organisation known as UK Haulier. They have laid out the path to getting a lorry licence in a very simple and easy-to-understand format.

UK Haulier starts by explaining that lorry driving is not for everyone. It is primarily a career for people who enjoy working alone, love to travel, and want to put their driving skills to use. The presentation also makes mention of the fact that you have to be at least 18 years old to get an LGV licence. From there, UK Haulier presents a step-by-step process that you can follow if you are interested in a career as a professional driver.

How It All Works

In order to get your lorry licence, you first have to decide what kind of licence you want. The two most common are the Category C and C+E. Between these two licences, most large goods vehicles are covered. The Category C+E licence is for the heaviest commercial vehicles, so it would require slightly different training compared to the Category C.

Once licence category is determined, the driver must undergo a routine medical exam provided by an NHS or private physician. The doctor will conduct the examination and submit the necessary paperwork on behalf of the driver. After the medical exam, the driver applies for the provisional entitlement he/she will need to eventually undergo practical skills training.

The next step in the process is to prepare for the LGV theory test while the driver waits for his or her provisional entitlement to arrive in the post. That can take anywhere from 10 business days to several weeks, depending on how responsive the DVLA is. When the driver’s provisional entitlement does arrive, it is time to take the theory test. Drivers must score an 85 on the first part of the test and 67 on the second part to pass.

Finally, the driver undergoes several weeks of intense practical skills training at one of our facilities. This training includes time spent both in the classroom and behind the wheel of a late-model vehicle. Students learn all the facts, general knowledge and skills they need to pass the final three tests required by CPC regulations. With training complete and all the tests passed, the driver is awarded that much-coveted lorry licence.

If you want to know more about getting your lorry licence, we invite you to contact us and speak with one of our training specialists. We can answer all of your questions and, if you’re ready, get you signed up for training in your area.

Sources:

UK Haulier News – http://www.ukhaulier.co.uk/driver-services-old/how-to-become-an-lgv-hgv-driver-in-the-uk/