Will I secure an HGV job once I am qualified?

It’s a big step to decide on a specific career path or a career change. Committing to the training is only the first step. Looking beyond your qualification, it can feel that there’s a huge unknown when it comes to employment. How likely are you to secure a job? What type of roles are open to you? Have you taken on the right training? You may worry about all of these things when you consider HGV driver training. However, in this field there are a few key differences which make employment more reliable.

While no one, including us, have a crystal ball that can guarantee a certain career trajectory, we do know that demand for HGV drivers continues to be high. We understand the value of high quality training and how important it is to make informed decisions along the way. That’s why we support our learners from the very early stages all through their qualification process. 

Here, we’ll summarise the training and examination process, look at which types of role you can expect with different driving categories, and highlight how your choice of training provider can influence your career long term.  

Training and Examination 

Your training process begins with your provisional HGV licence. You’ll need to complete a medical examination to ensure you’re fit to drive, followed by submitting a D2 application form and a D4 medical form to the DVLA. If you’re unsure which driver category to work towards, or would prefer support with your provisional licence application, why not speak to us first? Our friendly advisers are always on hand to offer guidance throughout the training process. 

HGV driver training courses are comprehensive, covering both theory and practical components. You’ll learn about vehicle safety, driving laws specific to HGVs, and how to handle different road conditions. With comprehensive revision materials, remote support and practical driving hours, you’ll be ready to begin the examination process.

The examination consists of both theory and practical tests. You can book your theory tests as soon as you obtain your provisional licence, and begin studying before even that! Once you have passed parts 1 & 2, which are then valid for up to 2 years, you can begin the practical elements of qualification. Split into parts 3a), 3b), and 4, these practical assessments complete your CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence). You’ll need to maintain this with 35 hours of periodic training over each 5 year period of your career. 

Category C Job Opportunities

Once you’ve qualified with a Category C licence, you can drive rigid vehicles weighing over 3,500kg with trailers up to 750kg. These vehicles are used to transport large or multiple items within a range of industries, with roles on average around £35k. 

Most commonly, a Category C licence brings with it a range of delivery based job roles. Companies like supermarkets, retail chains, and distribution warehouses rely on skilled drivers to transport their goods safely and efficiently across the country. Drivers of these vehicles may also deliver to consumers for larger, heavier items like furniture and white goods. 

Another option is working in waste management and recycling. Local councils and private companies hire Category C licenced drivers to operate refuse, recycling, and garden waste collection vehicles. 

Home removals is another industry which uses Category C vehicles. The journeys you’ll be travelling are incredibly varied, and the role is much more mixed activity with packing and unpacking contents mixing things up.

Finally, construction companies can seek drivers with a Category C licence to transport machinery, equipment, and building materials. This role often involves navigating through construction sites and urban areas, making it a dynamic and challenging option for those looking to diversify their driving skills.

Category C+E Job Opportunities

When you want to expand your career horizons, obtaining a Category C+E licence is a logical next step. Or go straight in here for access to the widest range of job opportunities. A C+E licence allows you to drive articulated vehicles, or lorries, with trailers exceeding 750 kg. Salaries can reach up to £50k, especially if you specialise with a HIAB or ADR qualification.

Vehicles of this size are most commonly used for long-haul driving. So you’d be transporting goods across long distances, often internationally. With very specific EU regulations in terms of driving and resting hours, there’s a lot of time management involved in these jobs. 

You may want to consider refrigerated transport or container transport with your Category C+E licence. Transporting perishable goods such as food or pharmaceuticals, or the onward transport of containers from docks to warehouses is a varied role which grows with experience.  

HGV Driver Demand 

In recent years, the demand for HGV drivers in the UK has been high, creating a wealth of opportunities for qualified individuals. As e-commerce and the global consumer market continues to grow, this surge in demand is set to continue. Consumer expectations for fast deliveries have had a knock on effect on the whole logistics chain, from imports to delivery. This means that top organisations are consistently employing HGV drivers. 

Let’s not forget the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK logistics industry. Changes in trade regulations and border controls have increased the complexity of transporting goods. This has further intensified the demand for skilled drivers who can navigate these challenges and keep the supply chain moving smoothly.

Training and Recruitment

When you enrol in an HGV training programme with a reputable provider, you’ll automatically improve your chances of successful employment. Many training providers have established relationships with employers, working with organisations to train their drivers from initial employment onwards. 

Here at Surrey & Hampshire HGV Training, our advisers are on hand throughout the training process to offer additional support. We ensure that our drivers pass with confidence, attaining a high level of skill from the outset. This puts you in the strongest position to get the job that you really want. 

Becoming a professional HGV driver opens up a world of possibilities in the logistics and transportation industry. We strive to give you the level of training and service that enables you to confidently pursue a fulfilling career on the road. This is why partnering with a reputable training provider is one of the most important things that you can do to guarantee a successful start to your career or career change. Contact us to kick start your new career.