Driving a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) is a highly skilled and rewarding profession. It requires a great deal of dedication, training, and experience to become a qualified HGV driver. If you are considering a career in the transportation industry, getting a HGV licence is the first step to take. This article will provide you with an overview of the steps you need to take to obtain a HGV licence.
What is an HGV licence?
A Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) licence is a permit that allows you to operate a commercial vehicle with a maximum weight of over 3.5 tonnes. The licence is divided into different categories based on the size and weight of the vehicle. The categories are as follows:
- Category C1: Allows you to drive vehicles weighing between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes with a trailer up to 750kg.
- Category C1+E: Allows you to drive vehicles weighing between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes with a trailer over 750kg.
- Category C: Allows you to drive vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes with a trailer up to 750kg.
- Category C+E: Allows you to drive vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes with a trailer over 750kg.
Steps to get an HGV licence
Step 1: Meet the Requirements
Before you can obtain an HGV licence, you must meet certain requirements. To be eligible for an HGV licence, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid car driving licence
- Pass a medical examination to ensure that you are physically fit to drive an HGV
- Pass a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) test
Step 2: Apply for provisional HGV licence
The next step is to apply for a provisional HGV licence. You can do this by completing the D2 application form and the D4 medical examination report. The D2 application form can be obtained from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) or downloaded from their website. The D4 medical examination report must be completed by a qualified doctor.
Step 3: Pass the theory test
Once you have obtained your provisional HGV licence, you will need to pass the theory test. The theory test consists of two parts – multiple-choice questions and hazard perception. The multiple-choice questions test your knowledge of the Highway Code and driving laws. The hazard perception test measures your ability to identify and respond to potential hazards on the road.
Step 4: Book and pass the practical test
After passing the theory test, you can book your practical driving test. The practical test consists of several parts, including vehicle safety questions, an off-road exercise, and an on-road driving test. During the driving test, you will be assessed on your ability to drive safely and competently in different traffic situations.
Step 5: Obtain a driver CPC
To become a qualified HGV driver, you must obtain a Driver CPC. The CPC is a requirement for all professional drivers and ensures that they have the skills and knowledge to drive safely and efficiently. There are two parts to the Driver CPC – the theory test and the practical test.
The theory test consists of two parts – multiple-choice questions and case studies. The multiple-choice questions test your knowledge of driving laws and regulations, while the case studies test your ability to apply your knowledge to real-life situations.
The practical test consists of a series of exercises that test your ability to handle an HGV safely and efficiently. The exercises include vehicle safety checks, driving on the road, and a demonstration of your ability to load and unload cargo.
Step 6: Find employment
Once you have obtained your HGV licence and Driver CPC, you can start looking for employment as a professional driver. There are many opportunities available to HGV drivers, including long-haul trucking, delivery services, and transportation for businesses and government agencies.
To increase your chances of finding employment, you may want to consider obtaining additional certifications, such as a Dangerous Goods (ADR) licence, which allows you to transport hazardous materials.
Using HGV Learning to get a HGV licence
If you are looking to obtain your HGV licence, using HGV Learning’s training courses and resources can be an excellent option. HGV Learning is a leading provider of HGV driver training in the UK, offering a range of courses and resources designed to help you obtain your HGV licence quickly and efficiently.
Here are some reasons why you should consider using HGV Learning to get your HGV licence:
Experienced and qualified trainers
At HGV Learning, our trainers have the extensive experience and qualifications to provide you with the training you need to pass your HGV licence tests. They are experts in their field and will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you have the knowledge and skills needed to become a safe and competent HGV driver.
Comprehensive training courses to get your HGV licence
We design our courses specifically to meet the needs of all types of learners. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some experience driving commercial vehicles, we have a course that will suit your needs. Our courses cover everything from the theory test to the practical driving test and the Driver CPC.
Flexible learning options
We understand that everyone has different schedules and learning styles. That’s why we offer flexible learning options, including classroom-based training, online courses, and one-to-one tuition. This allows you to choose the learning method that best suits your needs and schedule.
Extensive HGV training resources
In addition to our training courses, we offer a range of resources designed to help you pass your HGV licence tests. These include practice theory tests, hazard perception tests, and mock driving tests. We update our resources frequently to ensure that they are up-to-date and relevant to the current testing standards.
Value for money
We understand that obtaining a HGV licence can be an expensive undertaking. That’s why we offer competitive pricing on all of our training courses and resources. We believe that everyone should have access to high-quality HGV driver training, regardless of their budget.
