The Procedures for Obtaining an HGV Licence
Obtaining your HGV licence is simple and involves a number of distinct and well-defined processes. With the proper assistance and instruction, each of these is straightforward to complete. Our training curriculum includes all of them.
1. Medical test
As a requirement for licencing, every professional driver must pass a medical examination. This is to make sure you don't have any health issues that would make it impossible for you to drive safely once you pass your test. A doctor's visit consists of a talk and a quick physical. This examination can be performed by any licenced physician, who must also complete a DVLA form as part of the procedure. The HGVT team will see to it that you are scheduled for a priority appointment with a nearby, approved GP.
2. Theory test
Similar to learning to drive a car, your theory test will consist of multiple-choice questions that you must respond to on a screen in a recognised testing facility. By the time you take your exam, you ought to have practised extensively on your own using the materials and training the training provider gave you. The knowledgeable members of our theory booking staff will walk you through each step of theory training and the test.
3. Practical training
It's time for you to get behind the wheel and begin training when you've finished your theory training and received your test results from the DVSA. To give you the best chance of passing your practical test, you will have the opportunity to train in a real HGV vehicle with a DVSA-certified and knowledgeable teacher throughout this phase. When you're prepared to take the practical test, you can schedule it and, if you've prepared properly, pass it on your first try. With HGVT, you receive two FREE tries to pass the practical test at no additional cost (this is only available to customers who have chosen our pass protection package; otherwise, you must pay for each additional DVSA test you choose to take).
4. Driver CPC instruction
If you don't already have this as part of your licence, you may need to take your Driver CPC examination in order to drive professionally after passing your practical exam and being able to legally operate an HGV. The Driver CPC, or Certificate of Professional Competence, is a set of requirements you must meet in order to be able to operate specific vehicles for pay. Once you have this, you must do 35-hour refresher course every five years to maintain your roadworthiness.
How to decide if driving an HGV is right for you
HGV driving may be for you if you enjoy driving, wish to tour the UK or Europe, and don't mind being on the road by yourself for extended periods of time. The finest HGV drivers can work independently to solve issues like route adjustments, delays, and bad weather because they are focused and patient while driving, and good at keeping all the necessary records and documentation up to date.
If you have all of these attributes, you may be able to gain experience, move up the professional ladder, earn more money, and exert greater control over your working environment. Additionally, due to the abundance of drivers, you'll have employment for as long as you desire it (within the bounds of legal age, of course).
However, if you enjoy working in an office and being among people all day, or if you have difficulties controlling your temper while driving, becoming an HGV driver certainly isn't for you.