“How long does it take to train as an HGV Driver from start to finish?”
If you can be flexible about where you train, you can qualify in as little as 4 days. It’s always necessary to wait for the DVLA to process your application and your test centre forms, so the minimum you can expect is about 3 weeks. That said, Covid-19 has caused significant delays, so these times may be extended.
“Is passing the HGV test difficult?”
If you’ve already got your car licence, you’ll understand the basic format and roughly what to expect. Passing your HGV test isn’t overly difficult with the right training, but a good level of concentration is required at all times. Remain calm and confident in what you’ve learnt and your own ability and you shouldn’t have a problem. We will always provide your HGV training in the same vehicle as you’ll use on your test and on the same route as often as we can. In addition to this, you train for 4 days, with your test happening on day 5, meaning that your knowledge is fresh in your mind.
“How much does HGV training cost?”
The average cost of training for your HGV licence can range anywhere between £1,990 and £4,999 and this includes both the 4 day practical training and getting you through the entire process. Covered within this is your medical, your theory practice, the theory test, your CPC and practical training, pass protection (when purchased) and recruitment assistance from Manpower.
“Can you fail an HGV medical?”
Yes, you can. However, if our approved doctor deems you to be unfit then we’ll refund your training fees. It’s important to stress that this is not a drug test, rather a test to see if you’re fit to drive an HGV.
“How much do HGV drivers in the UK?”
Class 2 drivers can earn between £22,000-£27,000 depending on their region, with Class 1 qualified drivers able to earn as much as £40k per year.
“Is it possible to go directly to Class 1 HGV?”
If you want to qualify directly as a Class 1 driver, you must pass another test in addition to your Cat C and CPC training. Doing so adds Cat E to your driving licence and is an indication that you are a focussed and committed professional. So, yes, you can go directly to Class 1 without waiting and HGVT can make it happen for you.
“What is the basic requirement of starting my HGV training?”
In order to get started on your training to be an HGV professional driver, you’ll need to be over the age of 18 and hold a full UK driving licence.
“Should I pass my C1 before my C licence?”
Prior to taking your Class 1 licence (CE) practical test, you need to have already obtained your class 2 or Cat C licence. That said, new drivers going for their Cat C entitlement do not need to pass their C1 test beforehand.
“How long is an HGV provisional licence good for?”
When you have a provisional HGV licence, you will keep this entitlement until the specified date and your theory test pass will expire after 2 years.
“What is the difference between HGV and LGV?”
They’re essentially two different terms for the same thing. HGV is the term used in the UK, with LGV being the correct nomenclature for European drivers.
“Are HGV drivers in demand in the United Kingdom?”
There has been a huge demand for HGV drivers in the UK for some time now, due to the ongoing shortage of qualified personnel. Over the last decade, this has increased considerably, with the current shortfall sitting at around 50,000 drivers. Our Driver Academy has a dedicated team that focuses on finding drivers the best opportunities from amongst this huge number of available jobs.
