If you're looking to start your working days or make a career change, working as a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) driver could be for you. HGV drivers are employed by haulage companies to transport goods all over the United Kingdom and throughout the EU. Pay for HGV drivers isn't bad either; new HGV drivers start at about £14,000, and more experienced drivers can earn up to £35,000.
HGV or LGV -- What's the Difference?
HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) is an older term, and the newer and more official term is LGV (Large Goods Vehicle). That said, the two terms are often used interchangeably, and many drivers and people in the industry continue to prefer the term HGV. Don't get confused -- the two terms refer to the same license and the same career.
Requirements for HGV Licenses
HGV licenses for the largest vehicles are divided into two main types: C and C + E. A class C HGV is any rigid vehicle that weighs over 7.5 tonnes; a C + E license will allow you to drive a larger articulated vehicle that has a trailer. You have to get your HGV C license before you can train and earn your class C + E license. Before earning either license, you must already have a regular UK driver's license. You also must be at least 18 years of age to train for a class C license and 21 years of age or over to train for the class C + E. You also have to successfully pass a medical examination, which includes an eye exam, to ensure you're health enough to be a truck driver.
Testing for your HGV License: Theory Test
The process of training to become a lorry driver is similar to the process to obtain a regular driver's license; you must pass both a theory test and a hands-on, practical test. In the theory test, you will answer a series of multiple choice questions that test your knowledge of the practical aspects and legal considerations for HGV driving. You'll also need to pass a hazard perception test. In this test, you'll be shown video clips, and you have to indicate when you spot a hazard. There is a max score of 75 for the HGV theory test; you must score at least 50 to pass.
Testing for your HGV License: Practical Test
For the practical test portion of your HGV licensing examination, you will be assessed on your ability to drive an HGV vehicle in a variety of different conditions. This includes different kinds of turning and reverse manoeuvres as well as an amount of time spent road driving. The entire test usually lasts around an hour and a half. When you've completed both tests and passed, you will have obtained your HGV license and can begin working as an HGV driver.
Additional HGV Driver Training
Beginning in September of 2009, you will have to take the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in order to begin training as an HGV driver. This is a three part test that has two sets of multiple choice questions and a set of case study questions.
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