Learn the key steps to become a HGV driver including medical checks, licence categories, CPC training, and job search
Tristan Bacon — Updated 27 May 2026
HGV drivers keep goods moving across the UK, transporting everything from food to construction materials.
According to the Road Haulage Association, the UK needs 40,000 new HGV drivers each year for the next five years to prevent shortages, so there’s never been a better time to enter the industry.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how to become a HGV driver, from HGV licence requirements to training, costs, and finding work.
Fleets, bookings, subcontractors, compliance & payments.With HX, you can manage them all in one place.
HGV drivers do more than just transport goods. Their role depends on the type of haulage loads they handle, the distance they travel, and the employer they work for.
When you become a truck driver, you’ll also need to follow drivers’ hours rules, which limit daily driving to 9 hours (or 10 hours twice a week) and require regular rest breaks. While long-haul drivers may have unpredictable schedules, local haulage roles often provide more routine hours.
HGV driving also requires good communication and customer service skills, as drivers often deal with shippers, warehouse staff, and clients when delivering loads.
Before you can become a HGV driver, you’ll need the right licence. The HGV licence requirements vary based on the vehicle’s size, weight, and whether you’ll be towing a trailer.
Choosing the right category depends on the type of haulage work you want to do.
There are several HGV licence categories, each allowing you to drive different types of vehicles:
Each licence category applies to different vehicle types, so it’s important to choose the right one for your career goals.
Here are the most common lorry types and sizes used in haulage loads:
Each type of vehicle comes with its own handling requirements and restrictions, so the right licence and training will depend on your chosen career path.
If you plan to drive specialist vehicles, such as walking floor lorries, abnormal loads, crane-mounted lorries, or fuel tankers, you may need additional qualifications alongside your truck driving licence.
To apply for an HGV licence, you must pass a D4 medical examination. A doctor checks your eyesight, overall health, and fitness to drive long distances.
Conditions like poor vision, epilepsy, or insulin-treated diabetes may affect eligibility. Some drivers need regular check-ups to keep their licence.
You must be at least 18 years old and hold a full Category B (car) licence before applying for an HGV licence.
Experience driving large courier vans can help, but it’s not required. New drivers can train and qualify straight after passing their car test.
If you’re carrying hazardous goods, you may need an ADR haulage licence. Some specialist roles, like crane-mounted lorries, require extra training.
If you’re running a fleet of vehicles, an operator licence application may also be necessary.
Before training, make sure you meet the HGV licence requirements:
If you meet these, you can start the application process.
To start training, apply for a provisional HGV licence using the D2 form from the DVLA.
You’ll need to submit this with your D4 medical form. Processing takes around three weeks. Once approved, you can book your theory test.
This test covers:
There are 100 questions, and you must score at least 85 to pass.
You’ll watch video clips showing developing hazards and click when you spot them.
A score of 67 out of 100 is required to pass. Practising online can help improve reaction times.
This section tests your ability to:
You’ll need to pass this before moving on to on-road training.
This is the main driving test. An examiner will assess your ability to:
You must drive for around an hour, making no more than 15 minor mistakes.
This test presents real-world driving scenarios, checking your knowledge of:
There are 50 questions, and you must score 40 to pass.
This practical test covers:
You’ll need to demonstrate safe practices and answer examiner questions.
Once you’ve passed all parts of the Driver CPC training, you’ll receive a Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
This must be carried whenever you’re driving professionally. It’s valid for five years, after which you’ll need refresher training.
Once you’ve qualified, securing the right job is the next step. Whether you want full-time employment or transport bidding contracts as an owner-driver, there are plenty of opportunities.
A well-prepared application can make a difference when competing for driving roles. Here’s how to stand out:
Some drivers start with agencies before starting their own haulage company or taking full-time roles.
Newly qualified drivers often struggle to secure higher-paying roles due to lack of experience. However, there are ways to build a strong track record:
Many successful drivers start by accepting return haulage loads, which allow them to avoid empty runs and build connections with freight companies.
HGV driving is a career that offers freedom, independence, and strong earning potential, but it’s not for everyone. Before committing to becoming a HGV driver, consider whether it suits your personality and lifestyle.
Successful drivers tend to have:
Becoming a lorry driver means independence and strong earning potential, but it also comes with challenges. Long hours, time away from home, and unpredictable road conditions can make the job demanding. However, with the right approach, you can manage these challenges effectively.
HGV drivers spend long periods on the road, often covering hundreds of miles in a single shift. The law requires drivers to take regular breaks to prevent fatigue.
Some drivers plan their routes around service stations and secure HGV parking areas with good facilities, ensuring they can rest properly before continuing their journey.
HGV driving is mostly a solo job, which can lead to feelings of isolation—especially for long-haul drivers who spend nights away from home.
Some drivers also take turns driving with a partner on longer trips, helping to reduce isolation and share the workload.
Delays are frustrating, but they’re an unavoidable part of the job. Bad weather, roadworks, and accidents can throw off even the best-planned schedules.
By staying proactive and flexible, you can reduce the stress of delays and keep deliveries on track.
HGV driving offers a stable and rewarding career for those who enjoy life on the road. With demand for drivers remaining high, there’s no shortage of work, whether you choose full-time employment or self-employed contracts.
Beyond the financial benefits, HGV driving provides variety and independence. No two days are the same one week, you could be delivering goods locally, and the next, you might be driving cross-country. Many drivers enjoy the freedom of being out on the road rather than working in an office or warehouse.
It’s also a career with long-term opportunities. Some drivers specialise in transporting hazardous goods, refrigerated freight, or oversized loads, which can lead to higher earnings. Others progress into fleet management, training roles, or even running their own haulage businesses.
Once you’ve qualified, finding work is easier than ever. Many new drivers start by applying to haulage firms, while others use freight platforms like Haulage Exchange to secure regular contracts. With the right approach, you can build a strong reputation and gain steady, well-paid work.
If you’re ready to get started, begin by checking if you’re eligible, applying for your provisional HGV licence, and booking your training. A successful HGV career could be just a few months away.
Find reliable carriers and cut your costs with Haulage Exchange
The full process costs between £2,000 and £4,000, including medical and provisional licence fees, theory and practical test costs, and training and CPC qualification. Some companies cover costs if you sign a work contract.
Training usually takes 6 to 10 weeks, but delays in test bookings can extend this. If you train full-time, you could qualify faster. Part-time courses take longer.
New drivers earn around £28,000 per year, but experienced drivers can make £40,000+. As of February 2025, the average salary for an HGV driver is around £32,500, according to Totaljobs. Some employers offer bonuses, and specialist roles can pay even more.
High demand means job security. No two days are the same, you’re always on the move. The potential for self-employment and running your own small haulage fleet.
It depends on the offence. Minor speeding fines usually won’t prevent you from qualifying. However, more serious offences, such as drink driving (DR10) or dangerous driving (DD40), can disqualify you from obtaining an HGV licence.
Employers may also have their own policies regarding penalty points, so it’s best to check before applying for a role.
There are two main types:– Initial CPC training – This is required to qualify as an HGV driver and includes theory tests, practical exams, and case studies.– Periodic CPC training – Every five years, drivers must complete 35 hours of refresher training to keep their licence valid.CPC courses cover road safety, fuel-efficient driving, and compliance with haulage regulations.
Yes, several funding options are available:– Government-backed training schemes – Some councils offer funding to help people retrain as HGV drivers.– Employer-sponsored training – Some haulage firms pay for new HGV drivers training in exchange for a work commitment.– Loans and grants – Some organisations provide financial support for individuals looking to enter the industry.It’s worth checking government funding programmes or speaking to potential employers before paying for training yourself.
