Training for Heavy Goods Vehicles is designed to give drivers the confidence and skills necessary for these larger vehicles. There are two different categories of licence for Heavy Goods Vehicles, C and C+E, which each allow the driver to operate different types of vehicles.
Becoming an HGV Driver is a long and life changing experience which opens doors to jobs and earning potential you always think you can never achieve.
With over sixty thousand vacancies in the United Kingdom and earning potential of over thirty thousand pounds there’s never been a better time to start your HGV driver training.
Whether you’re looking into HGV driver training for yourself or your friend, it is a big decision and you need to consider a lot of things. But we are here to take you through the maze and help you arrive at the right outcome.
There are a lot of HGV driver jobs out there. There is shortage of HGV drivers in the United Kingdom for the last couple of years which makes provision of work to go around.
There has been an increase in both the number of people taking Category C and C+E tests. The numbers of people passing the test has also risen and the pass rate is climbing
But even so, that’s still a pretty low chance of passing when compared to how much it could cost, therefore, it is very important to know the facts before diving in.
The qualification process of HGV driver after you have collected your car driving licence often takes between six to eight weeks to complete the HGV driver training depending on who is training you.
And you can drive straight after passing your HGV test. Your test licence will be valid for a period of time to allow you the chance to send off for your physical licence.
There is no doubt that this is a big commitment, both in time and money. It’s never been more important to ensure you see a return on every penny you spent.
This is why it will really essential to understand the licence acquisition process and the role of HGV driver training. So grab a coffee, find a comfy spot and read on.
In this article we will be discuss everything you need to know and understand about HGV driver training and by the time you reach the bottom of the cup you will be in a better position to start getting things organized.
How to become an HGV driver
Do you want to become an HGV driver but do not know how to go about it? The steps listed below will guide you in becoming one
- You know to get a car driving licence
- Get a medical and obtain a medical exam report (Form D4) from your Doctor.
- Then apply for a provisional lorry licence
- Go for your theory test
- Take the driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) test.
- Take the relevant category practical test.
Characteristics of a qualified HGV driver
Before you become an official HGV Driver, you must prove you are more than 18 years old and have a full car driving licence. You must also have taken and passed the HGV test.
A great HGV driver needs to clear all his tests to get an HGV Licence. For driving heavy goods vehicles driver must also have the HGV license and there are so many HGV Training centres available for drivers to improve their knowledge and develop skills.
Outstanding truck drivers are significantly more than mere steering-wheel holders. Driving a heavy vehicle with its cargo of expensive supplies and equipment and keeping to a demanding schedule isn’t a job for a normal driver.
Do you want to be the best HGV driver of all times? Here are few characteristics of a qualified HGV driver.
You must be responsible
Many people have a greater sense of responsibility than others and those are the people we need when it comes to driving. A driver is responsible for carrying thousands of pounds of merchandize to and from great distances.
Not only are they responsible for the load they are running, but they should also keep a watch out for their companion friends they are sharing the road with. Being responsible in this field also means paying attention to safety seriously.
You must be well organized
Been and staying organized is a skill that is important to every single working field and this applies to HGV drivers. Research has shown that many drivers don’t consider being organized as a major characteristic required in their field.
However, the truth is that it is one of the key characteristic. Surprisingly, all the good drivers are always well organized. This implies that, before starting the transportation of cargo, they know what they are carrying
They also know the route they will take and all the paperwork they need and so on. This shows that a great driver should have a keen eye for organization.
You must be able to manage stress
Stress is a condition that causes both physical and physiological strain to the body. It a process where your body respond to anything that needs attention.
Stress influences everybody in any field or industry and we are experience stress at different degrees. Also, the way individual react to stress is what makes a huge difference.
This simply means that HGV drivers do also experience stressful situations. This can happen because of traffic, or when they are dealing with different drivers, driving through narrow and difficult routes, and others.
There are also other drivers who tend to be stressed when they invest a lot of time away from home, and the pressure of meeting deadlines as well as manual labor.
Therefore, it is important to note that there are many potential stressful factors on the road. A decent HGV is one who identifies the symptoms, the issue causing the problem, and works on the solution.
You must be professional
Professionalism is very essential when it comes to HGV drivers just like every other industry. And it is part of the characteristic required to be a successful HGV driver.
This means you need to follow all road rules, regulations, and decorum. Aside from showing good road leadership, attitude, and behaviour, an HGV driver should also comprehend other drivers.
This simply means that the driver should drive their vehicles in a professional manner. A good driver will take pride in his job and the manner in which he works.
You must be knowledgeable
There is nothing in this world that does not need knowledge which means every HGV driver should have a basic mechanical knowledge.
This helps drivers to identify mechanical problems easily through performance and sound. They can also use the basic mechanical knowledge to tackle minor issues.
Owning a little bit of mechanical knowledge makes everything simpler, safer and smoother while driving. Furthermore, it will help the driver to avoid any form of breakdowns that can waste his time.
You must learn to adapt
HGV driving can sometimes be unpredictable and the ability to be able to adapt to any form of transition and barrier is vital. This unforeseen circumstances can happen either on or off the road and you must be ready to switch instantly to make the job enjoyable for you.
The bottom line
Becoming a great HGV driver is achievable with the help of HGV driver training and consistency. Constant dedication and acquiring more knowledge will help you scare through tough times and give you the confidence to go further.
Also Read: Five Tips for the New Drivers