Could Training To Be HGV Driving Be Your Ideal Career Path?

Have you found yourself wondering whether becoming a HGV driver could be the ideal career path for you? There are loads of advantages and benefits to taking this career route, so if you’re curious about the world of HGV driving, keep reading because we are going to be discussing the ins and outs of HGV training, talk about what’s involved, and learn more about the categories of HGV licences that are available.

HGV Drivers Are The Heroes Of The Logistics World

Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers are the unsung heroes of the logistics world, helping to deliver goods from point A to B with efficiency and skill. Many people consider HGV driving when they’re looking for a change in job roles, career acceleration, to take advantage of flexible shift patterns, or even simply to increase their earning potential. 

With both temporary and permanent driving jobs available, working with HGVs is a driving job that many people are keen to get into. However, before pursuing your new driving career, you will need to partake in HGV training in order to gain the necessary skills and confidence needed to control heavy vehicles.

Training Is Essential For A Career In HGV Driving

We know there are many jobs that you can opt for when looking for a career in driving, however, if you intend to enter the world of HGVs, it’s imperative that you take your training seriously. HGVs are very different to cars – they’re bigger, heavier, and demand more skill to control safely. 

Finding a reputable company that can provide HGV Training is crucial as it equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to handle these machines safely and confidently. Before you embark on your HGV career, you first need to understand that there are different HGV licence categories. These are pretty simple to understand and are sort of like levelling up – you start with the lightest HGVs and, as you progress, you will learn how to handle heavier vehicles. 

Cat C1 HGV Training – 7.5 Ton

The C1 licence is for smaller, more rigid vehicles that weigh between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes. C1 lorries are used for the final stretch of delivery journeys and are more suited to built-up urban areas that the larger lorries cannot reach. Driving ambulances and horse boxes are also included under this licence if these career paths interest you. In terms of boosting your earnings with an HGV career, drivers delivering on this licence can expect to earn around £30k per year for a 40-45 hour week. 

Class 2 – (Cat C)

Drivers with a Class 2 licence can legally drive vehicles over 7.5 tonnes with a rigid base, but only if these vehicles do not exceed the weight limit of 32 tonnes. Most industries heavily rely on Class 2 delivery drivers in towns and cities, making it an excellent option for those looking to boost their income. Category C lorry drivers can also drive fire engines and refuse lorries and can earn up to £40k per year based on a 40-45 working week. 

Class 1 – (Cat C+E)

The Class 1 (C + E) licence is where things start to get serious. This category of vehicle is the largest on the road and weighs between 7.5 and 44 tonnes, as well as featuring detachable trailers. In order to train to drive Class 1 vehicles, you must already have your car licence (category B) and plenty of driving experience. Those who hold a Class 1 driving licence can expect to earn upwards of £40k per year to a 40-45 hour week, however, those with specialist positions could be looking at a figure of around £55k per year. 

What Does HGV Training Involve?

There are 4 simple steps between you now and you being able to legally drive Heavy Good Vehicles. 

Firstly, you need to pass a medical exam. 

After that, you need to study and pass your theory test. 

Next comes driving on the road and learning everything you need to know in order to pass your HGV driving test. 

Finally, you must complete your CPC training to earn your CPC card – this must be carried with you whenever you drive your HGV. 

Final Thoughts On A Career In HGV Driving.

Pursuing a career in HGV driving has so many advantages, in fact, many who have embraced this career path refer to it as a ‘lifestyle’ as opposed to a job. You get to explore new places, meet new people and train with friendly and approachable professionals. Not only that but those drivers holding HGV licenses are rewarded with a very competitive salary to account for their skills. So, if you are rearing to pursue your dream driving job, get some HGV training under your belt today!