Can I get a better job after HGV driver training?
There are lots of reasons that you might be thinking about HGV driver training. Perhaps you’re newly entering the workplace and are looking for opportunities, or you might want to change direction in your career. You might even already be working in the logistics industry and like the look of driving roles, or driving specialisms. Whatever your career aims, it’s certain that HGV driving has a great deal of benefits, including reliable employment, good pay, flexibility, and the chance to work outside of an office.
While there can be opportunities to learn to drive a lorry within your current employment (and we’ll touch on that further down), taking the initiative and adding category C, C1, C+E or C1+E on your driving licence is certain to open doors for you.
How does it work?
To be able to drive a lorry, you must have the correct category included on your driving licence. The licence categories C, C1, C+E and C1+E cover the different sized vehicles which constitute Heavy Goods Vehicles. Incidentally, the term LGV (light, or large goods vehicle) is now used pretty interchangeably with HGV, so both terms refer to these licence categories.
In passing the tests needed to add the correct category to your licence, you will also have passed the ‘CPC’ or Certificate of Professional Competence, which gives you an additional card, your Drivers Qualification Card. You need to be able to present this card in order to drive professionally, and it must be renewed every 5 years. You can read more about ongoing CPC training here.
HGV licence categories
There are several categories of HGV licences in the UK, each allowing you to drive different types of vehicles.
- Category C1: Entitles you to drive rigid bodied vehicles weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg, often used for local delivery trucks.
- Category C1+E: Entitles you to drive vehicles as above with an additional trailer over 750kg. The total mass of the vehicle must not exceed 12000kg. Examples might include roadside recovery, and some supermarket delivery vehicles.
- Category C: Allows you to drive rigid bodied vehicles over 7,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg. This licence is suitable for most large goods vehicles for national deliveries, removals, construction and waste management.
- Category C+E: The most comprehensive licence means you can drive Category C vehicles with a trailer over 750kg. You’ll need this licence category for articulated lorries and long-haul driving.
Choosing the right licence depends on your career goals and the types of vehicles you are interested in driving. Of course, if you qualify with a lower category you can certainly upgrade it with more HGV driver training. It can make sense, from a career perspective, to train for a higher licence category, since this automatically covers smaller vehicles too. We take a more detailed look at delivery driver roles here.
Benefits of HGV driving careers
An HGV or LGV driving licence in the UK qualifies you for various roles within the logistics and haulage industries. While the roles themselves might be in delivering goods locally, nationally or internationally, construction services, home removals, or waste management, there are several common benefits.
Pay and security
One of the primary attractions of HGV driving is the potential for good pay. According to industry reports, the average annual salary for HGV drivers in the UK is around £35k, with experienced drivers and those handling specialised loads earning up to £50k. The industry’s ongoing demand for qualified drivers also means steady work and the potential for salary growth over time.
Future opportunities
The logistics and haulage sectors are vital components of the economy, ensuring a constant demand for skilled drivers. Opportunities are plentiful, whether you’re interested in driving across the country or managing local deliveries. The diversity of roles available ensures that there is something to fit everyone’s preferences and skills.
Balance and flexibility
HGV driving offers a level of flexibility that is hard to find in many other careers. Drivers can often choose their schedules, whether they prefer day shifts, night shifts, or specific routes. This flexibility makes it easier to balance work with personal commitments, family life, and even hobbies. It’s ideal for people who thrive on variety, with travel and different environments being a refreshing change from being confined to a desk.
Ongoing development
The logistics and haulage industry is known for its dynamic nature, allowing for easy movement between job types. Once you have your HGV licence, you can explore various roles and also add specialised training, such as HIAB or ADR. Looking further down the line, some choose to move into supervisory or management positions within the industry, providing ample growth opportunities.
The HGV training process
So, how do you begin the process of HGV driver training? You’re in the right place to take the first step, which is to speak to a trusted HGV driver training supplier. At Easy as HGV, we’ve been training drivers for over 15 years, and our advisers can help you with every step of the process. Here’s what we’ll support you through:
- Obtaining a provisional HGV licence: Apply for a provisional licence with the correct category, and complete the driver medical certificate.
- Theory study and tests: Study for and pass the theory test, which includes multiple choice questions and hazard perception.
- Practical training and tests: Undertake practical training with a qualified instructor, followed by the practical driving test.
- CPC certification: Earn the Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), which is covered by specific parts of the theory and practical tests.
- Ongoing CPC: You are required to complete a total of 35 hours of HGV driver training over every 5 year period in order to maintain your CPC. You must do this to continue to drive professionally. There’s no testing required, and you can stick with us at Easy as HGV to keep this training on track.
Fast training timescales
One of the advantages of pursuing an HGV driving qualification is the relatively short training period. Most people can complete their training and be ready to start working within 8 to 12 weeks. You can even choose a fast track C+E training course, for even shorter timescales. This quick turnaround makes it an attractive option for those eager to enter the workforce or make a swift career change.
In-organisation training
For those already employed in a different role within a company, many organisations work with us at Easy as HGV to offer training for employees moving into HGV driving. This can be a cost effective and convenient way to obtain your qualification while continuing to work. Employers benefit from having a more versatile workforce, and you’ll gain your licence and the subsequent career opportunities.
Beginning your career in HGV driving brings a wealth of benefits, from good pay and flexibility to opportunities for travel and professional growth. With a structured HGV driver training process, quick qualification timeline, and various job roles to explore, contact Easy as HGV today to take the first step.
Becky is a writer for Easy as HGV, specialising in creating engaging content for the HGV industry and covering a variety of topics relevant to small businesses.