Step-by-Step Guide to Driving a HGV
Thinking about starting a new career as a professional HGV driver in 2025? There has never been a better time. Skilled drivers are in high demand across logistics, supermarkets, construction, recycling, removals and many more industries.
This guide walks you through every step to get your HGV licence, how long it takes, what it costs, and how to start earning quickly.
Which Licence Do You Need?
It depends on the size and type of vehicle you want to drive:
Licence
Category C (Class 2)
Category C+E (Class 1)
Category C1
D1 / Bus/Coach
Vehicle Type
Rigid trucks over 7.5t
Articulated lorries
3.5–7.5t
Minibuses & PCV
Example Jobs
Tippers, skips, local delivery
Long-distance haulage, trunking
Ambulances, removals
School contracts, coach drivers
Most new drivers choose to train directly to Class 1 – C+E as it offers the highest earning power.
Step-by-Step: Become an HGV Driver in the UK
Step 1 — Apply for Your Provisional HGV Licence
You will need:
- Valid Category B (car licence)
- HGV Medical (D4 form)
Once completed, send:
- D2 licence application form
- D4 medical form
- Your photocard licence
to the DVLA (the provisional licence is free).
Step 2 — Theory Tests: Module 1a & 1b
You must pass:
- Multiple Choice Test
- Hazard Perception Test
Training providers often include access to online revision.
Step 3 — Case Study Test: Module 2
This is required if you plan to drive professionally.
It covers real-life working scenarios such as deliveries, safety procedures and regulations.
Step 4 — Practical HGV Training
This is when you get behind the wheel and learn:
- Road driving & safety
- Reversing techniques
- Vehicle checks
- Coupling & uncoupling (for C+E)
Training typically takes 4–7 days depending on experience and licence type.
Step 5 — Practical Tests: Module 3a & 3b
Module 3a Covers Off-road reversing + coupling/uncoupling
Module 3b Covers On-road driving with a DVSA examiner
Pass both and you are a fully qualified HGV driver
Step 6 — Driver CPC: Module 4
To work as a paid professional driver, you must pass the Driver CPC demonstration test.
This includes:
- Load securing
- Preventing illegal immigration
- Disability access (PCV)
- Safety around the vehicle
You will receive your Driver Qualification Card (DQC) once complete.
How Long Does It Take?
Times can vary based on DVLA processing and test waiting times, but most people qualify within
4–8 weeks in total.
How Much Does It Cost?
Costs depend on licence type and location, but typical all-inclusive packages range:
£2,000 – £3,500 (from medical to CPC completion)
Many training centres offer:
- Finance options
- Payment plans
- Discounts (Armed Forces, etc.)
HGV Driver Salary Expectations (2025)
If you have a Category C licence you should expect to earn between £28,000 and £36,000. For people with a category C+E licence this increase to between £38,000 and £55,000+. This increases again if you drive a tanker or do night work, for this you can expect to earn from £50,000 to £70,000+. Overtime and weekends can significantly increase your pay.
Driving a HGV has excellent job security, drivers are always needed and there has been a shortage of qualified drivers recently. There is a huge range of industries that you can work in.
What to Look for in a Training Provider
Choosing the right training company is the biggest factor in whether you pass first time. You need to look for:
- Transparent pricing (no hidden extras)
- Own vehicles and instructors
- Assistance with medical, theory and CPC
- In-house examiners where possible
- Local test routes and reversing areas
- Supportive and experienced team
Ready to Start Your HGV Driving Career?
If you’re looking to train with a local, family-owned driver training business that supports you throughout the entire process — from licence paperwork to test day — we’d love to help. We have:
- All-inclusive training packages
- Own vehicles, own reversing examiners
- Depots across Berkshire & Oxfordshire
- Established since 2008
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs