Looking to drive HGVs? Training for an HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) licence is a smart investment, enhancing your employability across the UK and Europe. Once qualified, you'll be in demand for various roles, whether with a company or through haulage firms. Here’s information on how to get your HGV licence in the UK.
Before applying for the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) test, you'll need a provisional HGV licence. Here's what you need to know:
Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old and hold a full UK car driving licence.
Choose the Right Licence: Licences vary based on vehicle type and weight, so ensure you select the correct one for your career goals.
Costs and Training Options Costs for the CPC test can reach £270, plus training and medical exams. However, free or subsidised options like the government-funded HGV Skills Bootcamp are available to help meet the driver shortage in the UK.
This scheme is available to individuals aged 19 or over living in England, whether employed, self-employed, or unemployed, who hold a full UK driving licence. It has been extended until February 2026 to help address the UK’s ongoing driver shortage.
Health and fitness assessment- Order D2 (application) and D4 (medical) forms from the DVLA. A GP or private medical provider must complete the D4 form. UK law requires HGV drivers to be in good health to legally operate commercial vehicles on public roads. Certain medical conditions may disqualify you from professional driving.
You can schedule a medical exam with your GP, a private clinic, or a specialist D4 medical provider. You will need to discuss your medical background, any ongoing conditions and medication and then undertake a physical examination. Note that as a private examination, this will involve a charge or anywhere between £50- £180.
The CPC test is divided into four parts:
You can arrange to take these theory tests at a centre local to you. There are Apps available to download to aid learning, with mock tests to try out and online theory test revision packages and The Official DVSA Guide to Hazard Perception DVD.
There are several online tools, software, and resources available to support those preparing for HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) training and licensing in the UK. These resources help with everything from theory test preparation to practical skills development. Here's a breakdown of the online and software support available for HGV training:
DVSA Official Learning Zone: The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) offers an official online platform to help drivers prepare for the theory
this official app includes practice questions, hazard perception tests, and case studies specifically designed for HGV drivers.
Available on both Google Play and Apple App Store.
Includes mock tests to simulate the real exam environment.
A tool for preparing for the HGV theory test, offering mock tests, hazard perception practice, and access to a vast database of official DVSA questions.
Accessible via desktop or mobile devices.
Provides theory test practice for car, bike, and HGV/LGV tests.
Offers in-depth learning materials, interactive case studies, and hazard perception video training.
Used by many professional training schools and students.
This app offers a wide range of practice questions tailored for the LGV/HGV theory test, with multiple-choice mock tests and hazard perception clips.
Available on Google Play and Apple App Store.
Hazard Perception 2024 (App and Online)
Aimed specifically at helping drivers practice hazard perception tests.
Includes realistic clips similar to those used in the official DVSA test.
Offers feedback on responses to help improve reaction times and understanding of potential hazards.
Driving Test Success (App and Online)
Offers the latest hazard perception videos and is one of the most popular driving test preparation platforms.
Provides explanations for each clip, ensuring you know why certain hazards should be noted.
HGV Training Centres Online Resources
Many UK-based HGV training schools offer online learning platforms that provide study guides, instructional videos, and step-by-step guidance for practical HGV driving lessons.
Examples: HGVC, Driver Hire, Wallace School of Transport.
Driver CPC Training Modules Online
Certain parts of the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) can be studied online, especially the theory elements and case studies.
Providers like NTS Training and HGV Training Network offer online CPC modules.
Zoom/Teams-based Training:
Some HGV training centres provide virtual classrooms via platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams to deliver theoretical aspects of the HGV test (Driver CPC training).
This format allows you to learn from professional trainers remotely.
FleetDriver (Online)
Offers online Driver CPC courses and e-learning for HGV drivers that meet DVSA standards.
Ideal for drivers who want flexibility in completing their CPC training.
HGV Route Planner by TruckMap (App)
A route planning app that helps drivers prepare for their journeys, taking into account vehicle height, weight, and road restrictions. While not specific to training, it is an excellent tool for familiarising yourself with HGV driving routes and restrictions.
Available on Google Play and Apple App Store.
Trucker’s Atlas & Navigation Apps
Tools like CoPilot Truck GPS and Sygic Truck GPS Navigation offer specialised navigation support for HGV drivers, making it easier to plan routes, and avoid low bridges, narrow roads, or other obstacles.
Great for hands-on practice before the practical test.
TruckNet UK (Online Forum)
A popular forum for aspiring and professional HGV drivers in the UK where you can ask questions, share experiences, and get advice from fellow drivers and trainers.
Reddit HGV Drivers Forum (Online)
A place where drivers share tips, study guides, and personal experiences to help others prepare for their HGV tests.
Online Learning from HGV Training Providers:
Many HGV training providers, like National Driving Centre, Wallace School of Transport, Road Haulage Association (RHA) and HGVC, offer online course materials and mock tests as part of their HGV training packages.
By using these online resources and software tools, you can enhance your learning experience, practice more effectively for your HGV tests, and get more comfortable with both the theoretical and practical aspects of obtaining your HGV licence.
Where to Undertake HGV Training in the UK
Most major cities and regions have certified HGV training centres. Be sure to verify their accreditation and certification with the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).
Colleges and Specialist Schools:
Some colleges offer HGV training as part of a vocational or apprenticeship program.
Local further education colleges may also provide HGV driver courses linked to government funding schemes.
Employer-Sponsored Training: Many logistics and haulage companies offer fully-funded HGV training for new employees. Companies like Eddie Stobart, DHL, and Wincanton sponsor training due to the UK driver shortage.
Grants and Funding Options for HGV Training
Skills Bootcamp (HGV Skills Bootcamp):
Government-funded scheme to train new HGV drivers or upgrade existing licences.
Open to anyone aged 19 or over, living in England, employed, self-employed, or unemployed.
Fully funded and extended until February 2026.
Covers all aspects of HGV training, including the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
Eligibility requirements: Must hold a full UK driving licence.
Apprenticeships:
HGV driving apprenticeships are available for those aged 16 or over and combine classroom learning with practical, on-the-road experience.
Employers can receive government funding to train apprentices.
Check with local colleges and apprenticeship providers for available programs.
Jobcentre Plus: Offers funding support for those unemployed and looking to retrain as HGV drivers.
Grants may be available for those eligible through their Work Programme.
Training Providers with Financing Options: Some HGV training schools offer financing or payment plans to spread out the cost of training over time.
Haulage Firms Sponsorship: Many companies will cover the costs of HGV training if you agree to work with them for a set period.
Local Government Grants:
Certain local councils may offer training grants as part of employment or retraining initiatives. These vary by location, so check with your local council.
By exploring these options and contacting local HGV training providers, you can find the best path to becoming a qualified HGV driver while potentially reducing the financial burden with grants or employer sponsorship.
Ongoing CPC Periodic Training
After getting your CPC, you must complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to maintain your qualification.
Driving Without an HGV Licence
If you passed your driving test before 1997, you may be able to drive vehicles up to 8,250 kg MAM without an HGV licence. However, for professional driving—particularly with vehicles over 3,500 kg—the CPC is still a mandatory requirement.