How to Become an HGV Driver in the UK

Invest in your future and start a rewarding career as an HGV driver. Learn more right here on Monster.

By Venus Gentile, Monster Contributor

HGV (heavy goods vehicle) drivers, also known as lorry drivers, play an essential role in the logistics industry and are the driving force behind the UK economy. Businesses across the nation rely on HGV drivers to transport and deliver their merchandise, parts, and supplies around the country. HGV drivers deliver household and food items to your front door, petrol to keep your car running, and groceries you buy at the supermarket. Without HGV drivers, the economy would seriously suffer. If you enjoy driving on the open road and love the idea of traveling across the UK or even Europe, read on to find out how to become an HGV driver.

There's never been a better time to enter this rewarding and valuable profession. As an HGV driver, you'll have an excellent opportunity to travel extensively, and earn a promising salary. The shortage and subsequent demand for HGV drivers have significantly increased the available job options, and salary packages have surged. Many companies now offer signing-on bonuses and incentives to entice new workers, making this an attractive career option.

What Does an HGV Driver Do?

An HGV driver typically works for a transportation company, operating vehicles such as articulated lorries, tankers, and trail wagons. They are responsible for transporting the goods and ensuring that all goods are delivered on schedule to the correct location without damage. However, more work and skills are involved in understanding how to become an HGV driver.

As an HGV driver, you'll have to be focused and patient while driving, keep records and paperwork up-to-date and be prepared to tackle problems such as delays, bad weather, and route changes. Depending on the type of HGV licence you hold and your personal circumstances, you could choose to work in one of the following categories:

  • local driving jobs – involves driving in a localised area where you'll deliver multiple, smaller packages in a working day. Some jobs could include food delivery HGV driver, courier, or refuse collection.
  • short-haul jobs – you'll travel between cities and counties with fewer deliveries. You may need to drive at night and spend more time away from home. Some positions include haulage drivers, retail delivery drivers, and home removal drivers.
  • long-haul jobs – you'll transport goods across long distances that could span the entire UK or even into Europe. These jobs may require a week or longer to complete and may be hard to commit to if you have a family. However, it's an opportunity to travel to new places and get well compensated. Some jobs include freight delivery, tanker, and car transporter drivers.

In this role, your duties could include:

  • inspecting vehicles for malfunctions and reporting any issues
  • managing inventory and securing loaded cargo
  • following traffic reports and route changes
  • lifting and carrying goods
  • completing delivery paperwork and logbooks
  • planning delivery schedules and routes
  • adhering to applicable traffic laws and driving safely
  • obtaining signed receipts after delivery

How to Become an HGV Driver

You typically won't need secondary education qualifications to become a lorry driver. However, you will need to have a valid UK driver's licence and be over 18 years old. In addition, you'll also have to pass medical and eyesight examinations to qualify.

The first step is to obtain the appropriate HGV licence. There are two licences available, Class One (for vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes) and Class Two (for vehicles over 7.5 tonnes.) To get your licence, you will have to take a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training course covering driving skills, mechanics, and securing loads. At the end of your course, you'll have to a pass four-part test that includes:

  • driving theory (written test)
  • online case studies
  • driving ability test (on and off-road exercises)
  • practical demonstration test

Once you've passed the test, you'll receive a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) that you must carry when driving an HGV.

You may be asking, "how long does it take to become an HGV driver?" The HGV training takes only five days. However, the entire process, which also involves obtaining a licence, usually takes an average of six to eight weeks.

If you are already working for a transport company, for example as an office worker, you may be able to get training through your employer. You could also get funded through the government or your local job centre.

To be a successful HGV driver, you'll need essential skills such as:

  • customer service and good communication
  • attention to detail
  • problem-solving and critical thinking
  • strong concentration
  • observation and recording skills
  • ability to work well under pressure
  • mechanical skills

How Much Do HGV Drivers Make?

In the UK, the average salary for an HGV driver is £33,280 per year. However, how much you earn depends on your experience, qualifications, training, and what part of the UK you live in. It's essential to understand what you're worth in your chosen profession. You can research salary expectations for this job and related roles online. You can often increase your salary through bonuses and shift allowances. With experience, you could become an HGV instructor, freight transport planner, or manager, resulting in a higher salary.

How to Apply for HGV Driver Jobs

Are you ready to start your search for HGV driver jobs on Monster? Now that we've shown you how to become an HGV driver, you can begin by updating your CV and tailoring a cover letter to each application before applying for jobs.

HGV drivers are in high demand, and there are plenty of job vacancies across the UK. Depending on your location, you may want to consider looking for roles in:

Are You Ready to Find HGV Driver Jobs? Start Today with Monster

Now that you know how to become an HGV driver, you should be ready to take the next step in your job hunt. Speed up your search with Monster by creating your free profile today. You'll be able to upload your CV and have recruiters find you online. We'll also send you frequent personalised job alerts to match you with the right employer.