If you’re exploring a driving career or researching licence categories, you’ve probably come across the terms HGV and LGV. These acronyms cause plenty of confusion, especially when they seem to refer to the same type of vehicle.
In this guide, we’ll unpack the real HGV and LGV meaning, explains UK licence categories, and clears up the most common myths. Whether you’re planning to become an HGV driver or just trying to understand the differences, we’ll help you decode the terminology.
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What HGV and LGV mean today
Despite the different names, HGV and LGV now mean exactly the same thing in the UK. Both refer to vehicles over 3.5 tonnes used for commercial freight or heavy goods transport.
What does LGV stand for? LGV technically stands for ‘Large Goods Vehicle,’ not ‘Light Goods Vehicle’ as many assume, and this modern definition aligns with EU regulations that classify commercial goods vehicles by weight.
It’s important to note that many industry professionals still use both terms interchangeably. When searching for jobs, training, or legal information, you may see both HGV and LGV used in the same context, even though they legally refer to the same vehicle category.
Why the terms changed in 1992
Before 1992, LGV meant Light Goods Vehicle, generally covering vans under 3.5 tonnes. HGV, on the other hand, was used for anything over that threshold.
After aligning with European directives, the UK updated its classifications. LGV was redefined to mean Large Goods Vehicle, and this brought it in line with the existing HGV category.
That means HGV and LGV now refer to the same group of heavier commercial vehicles, regardless of the brand of lorry. Despite the shift, the outdated meaning of LGV (as ‘light’) still creates misunderstanding today.
Common misconceptions about ‘Light Goods Vehicle’
Many people, including job seekers and even some employers, still think LGV refers to courier vans or small trucks under 3.5 tonnes. This misunderstanding persists in part due to the historical usage of LGV pre-1992.
In reality, vans under 3.5 tonnes fall into an entirely different licensing category. They’re often referred to as Category B vehicles, the same as standard cars.
If you’re looking at job ads or training courses and see ‘LGV,’ always check the context. Most of the time, LGV will mean the same thing as HGV: a vehicle above 3.5 tonnes.
Licence categories explained
There are several UK driving licence categories related to HGV vs LGV vehicles. These are determined by the vehicle’s weight and configuration.
Understanding the differences between them helps you figure out which type of lorry you can legally operate. Plus, it will also help you glean what kind of training you’ll need.
Category C (rigid lorries: up to 32 tonnes)
Category C licences allow you to drive large rigid-body vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 32 tonnes.
These vehicles have a fixed cab and trailer, meaning they aren’t articulated. They’re commonly used for local deliveries and are often referred to in Class 2 terminology.
Category C+E (articulated lorries: up to 44 tonnes)
Category C+E licences allow you to drive articulated lorries, which have separate cab and trailer sections. These are the largest legal lorries in the UK, with weights up to 44 tonnes.
This licence is often considered the highest tier and opens the door to long-distance and high-capacity haulage jobs. You must first pass Category C before upgrading to C+E.
Category C1 (3.5–7.5 tonnes)
Category C1 lets you drive medium-sized vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes. This licence is common for delivery drivers or specialist transport jobs such as horseboxes or ambulances.
If you passed your car test before 1997, you might already have this category included by default on your licence. A valuable perk, to be sure.
Class 1 and Class 2 vs modern categories
The terms Class 1 and Class 2 are still widely used in job descriptions, training centres, and even on fleet management sites. But these terms don’t appear on your driving licence.
They correspond to the current categories as follows:
- Class 2 = Category C (rigid lorries)
- Class 1 = Category C+E (articulated lorries
Although they’re technically outdated, Class 1 and Class 2 remain industry shorthand. So if you’re browsing training options or trying to become an HGV driver, be aware of both sets of terms.
Which licence do you need for different vehicle weights?
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand the weight ranges and the right licence to match:
| Vehicle Type | Weight Range | Required Licence |
| Van or pickup | Up to 3.5 tonnes | Category B |
| Medium lorry | 3.5 to 7.5 tonnes | Category C1 |
| Large rigid lorry | Over 7.5 tonnes | Category C |
| Articulated lorry | Up to 44 tonnes | Category C+E |
Looking for more specific size thresholds and regulations? See our full guide on lorry sizes for more details.
How to qualify: medical, theory, practical and driver CPC
To drive HGV and LGV vehicles professionally, you’ll need more than just a licence. There’s a step-by-step process to qualify.
First, you’ll complete a medical exam to check for fitness to drive. Then you’ll need to apply for a provisional entitlement.
Next comes the theory test, which includes hazard perception and multiple-choice questions. Once you’ve passed, you can book your practical driving test for the appropriate category.
Finally, professional drivers must also complete Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) modules.
Typical costs to train and get licensed
Costs vary depending on the licence category and training provider, but here are general estimates:
- Medical test: £50–£100
- Theory test: £37
- Training course: £1,200–£2,000+
- Driver CPC: Around £300–£400
Some employers cover part of the cost for new drivers. Others offer apprenticeships or schemes to help reduce the financial burden.
Career paths for qualified HGV/LGV drivers
With an HGV or LGV licence, you can unlock a wide range of transport careers. Many start in local delivery or regional transport, then progress into higher-paying long-haul roles.
Others choose specialised fields like hazardous materials, refrigerated transport, or even international haulage. The category you’re licensed for will influence the roles available.
Outside the UK: How other regions label heavy vehicles
In the EU, the term LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) is used more often than HGV. It reflects the same categories but avoids the confusion with ‘light’ goods.
In the US, they use the term commercial motor vehicle (CMV) and classify trucks by class numbers: Class 7 and Class 8 being most similar to the UK’s HGVs. It’s helpful to be aware of these differences if you plan to work abroad or with international fleets.
Why job ads and training pages still use both terms
Even though the DVLA treats HGV and LGV as the same, the terms are used inconsistently across the industry. Some employers write “HGV/LGV” to cover all bases.
Training providers also do this for SEO reasons or to appeal to those who still remember the old meanings. That’s why it’s important to read the job or course description carefully.
Frequently asked questions
Do vans under 3.5 tonnes count as LGV?
No, despite the name, LGV no longer refers to Light Goods Vehicles. Vans under 3.5 tonnes fall under Category B, the same as standard cars.
Do I need Driver CPC for occasional or agency HGV work?
Yes, if you’re driving an HGV or LGV for commercial purposes, even just occasionally, you need a valid Driver CPC. There are some exceptions, but most agency roles will require full certification.
Can pre-1997 car licence holders drive 7.5-tonne vehicles?
Yes, if you passed your test before 1 January 1997, you likely have Category C1 entitlement on your licence. This lets you drive vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes without extra testing.
What is the difference between HGV and LGV in the UK?
There isn’t one: HGV and LGV now refer to the same types of vehicles over 3.5 tonnes. The confusion arises from outdated definitions, but legally, the two terms are interchangeable.
