The Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) training sector is one of the most highly regulated and monitored industry segments. With the ever-increasing demands for road safety, and given the size and weight of an HGV, many regulations and standards have been put in place to ensure that drivers have the correct skills, knowledge, and attitudes to operate these vehicles safely on public roads.
Depending on your country of residence or individual licensing requirements, you may need specific training to meet local legal requirements. This article will explain everything you need to know about HGV training so you can decide whether it’s right for you.
What is HGV training?
HGV stands for “heavy goods vehicles” . These are the large lorries used for transporting goods over long distances, often on major highways. It’s a discipline under the commercial driving licence (CDL) category. When it comes to HGV Training in the UK, there are two types of licences you can apply for:
A PCV (public service vehicle) licence
A PCV (public service vehicle) licence allows you to drive buses, taxis, and ambulances.
HGV licence
HGV licence allows you to drive large lorries These are the two biggest disciplines under the commercial driver’s licence category, and the HGV Training in the UK and the exams involved are quite different from each other.
Who can apply for an HGV licence?
Becoming an HGV driver is more complex than some other jobs. You must first complete a training course and then pass a test before you can sit for your HGV driving test. Even if you already have a car driving licence and have been driving for years, this doesn’t automatically mean you can drive HGVs. This is because the two licences are very different and require their own training and exams to be completed before you can drive the larger, heavier vehicles. To apply for an HGV driving licence, you must: Be at least 21 years old. Have a car driving licence for at least a year Have completed an approved HGV training course Pass the HGV theory exam Pass a medical exam Pass a practical driving test The HGV driving test As we’ve seen, to drive HGV vehicles, you must complete a training course, pass a theory exam, and a medical exam. Once you’ve completed all of these, you’ll be issued a Driver Qualification Card, which allows you to drive HGV vehicles. The theory exam is the same for both PCV and HGV licences. Once you’ve passed the theory exam, you’re allowed to start your practical training. This is where the two disciplines differ greatly. To pass the HGV driving test, you must be able to drive safely and efficiently and demonstrate a full understanding of all HGV regulations. HGV driving test examiners are trained to be extra strict, as they only aim to ensure you are a safe driver. They are also trained to look for any mistakes that could be potentially dangerous.
Tips for passing your HGV test
When studying for the HGV test, it’s important to make sure you’re fully prepared and know what to expect. Here are some tips and tricks you can use to help you pass the test and get your HGV licence. Even though some of these tips may seem obvious, they’re often easy to forget when you’re under pressure in the exam room. Some exams are so strict that they refuse to let you start the test unless you’ve removed all rings or watches from your hands.
Becoming a professional driver is very challenging but also extremely rewarding. It is a career that requires determination and hard work, but the rewards (both financially and personally) are well worth the effort. Most professionals in the HGV driving sector are selfemployed. This means that you are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of your vehicles, as well as your tax payments and insurance. You’ll need to invest in a company car, which will cost between £30,000 and £50,000. Once you have your HGV licence, you can start applying for jobs. Some companies will employ you on a self-employed basis, but most will require you to take out a “driving contract” with an employment agency.
Final words: Is becoming an HGV driver worth it?
Becoming a professional driverBecoming an HGV driver is definitely worth the effort. With the right training and motivation, you can reach new heights in terms of the types of jobs you can do and the amount you can earn. With more and more companies investing in online shopping and eCommerce, demand for HGV drivers is expected to increase by around 30% over the next decade. This means more job opportunities for you, and higher pay. HGV training is challenging, but with the right guidance, knowledge, and passion, you can become a professional driver.