Driving Career Guide: Find Out if a Driving Role is Right for You

Why Choose a Driving Career?

When it comes to choosing your career path, why choose sitting in an office instead of getting out there in a large goods vehicle, articulated lorry, or tanker?

There are many misconceptions about being an LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) or delivery van driver, such as long hours and continuous driving, that all truck drivers are men or, that there are already too many drivers. In our experience, these misconceptions simply aren’t true.

• Driving hours and limits are in place, and essential vehicle checks are carried out to keep you safe.
• Woman drivers are out there! In a recent survey, women make up 16% of delivery drivers.
• There is often a shortage of LGV drivers in the UK and not enough young people are choosing a career as an LGV driver.

If you like driving and independent working, then this could be your ideal role. Thanks to so many people switching to online shopping, driving jobs have proved to be a resilient choice, even during tough economic times. Lorry and van driving can offer flexible shift patterns, lots of opportunities, it can pay well, and you don’t necessarily need to have a special licence or invest money in further training. A recent survey of 550 people currently working in driving revealed that 74% of them drive either a car, panel van or light truck up to 3.5 tonnes.2

If you have passed your driving test after 1st January 1997 and have a licence, you can drive cars and light vans up to 3.5 tonnes (Category B), perfect for becoming a van delivery driver or a final mile driver. ‘Final mile’ refers to the final stage in the delivery process, rather than the distance travelled, where these types of drivers deliver online shopping items or groceries.

If you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997 and have a licence, you can also drive Large Good Vehicles (LGV) up to 7.5 tonnes (Category C1 licence, as well as the Category B listed above).

What Types of Driving Work Are Available?

Below we have listed the types of driving jobs you can apply for in the UK, with the associated vehicles size and weight categories: 

• Final Mile Courier - usually drives cars or small vans up to 3.5 tonnes on a standard category B driving licence.
• Van/Delivery Driver Category B - usually drives vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes on a standard category B car driving licence or up to 7.5 tonnes with a C1 licence.
• LGV Class C - drives articulated vehicles in excess of 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes with trailers up to 750kgs.
• LGV Class C+E Driver - drives articulated vehicles in excess of 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes with trailers weighing more than 750kgs.
• LGV C1 Driver - drives large goods vehicles weighing up to 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes.
• Forklift Truck Driver - uses a forklift truck to deliver, move, load, and unload a variety of goods.
• Class 1 / 2 Moffett Driver - drives vehicles which are equipped with MOFFETT truck mounted forklifts. These are to safely and efficiently load and unload products into or from the trailer.
• Tanker Driver - drives LGV weighing up to 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes carrying bulk materials or liquids.
• Vehicle Mounted Crane Operator (HIAB Driver) - drives LGV weighing up to 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes that has a crane either at the rear or just behind the cab, used to load and unload goods.
• The European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) - drives vehicles with tanks, certain tank components and can carry dangerous goods in packages. Can be articulated vehicles in excess of 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes or rigid vehicles weighing over 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes with trailers weighing up to 750kgs with a Class C or C+E licence and an ADR Certificate.

What Licences Are Needed for Different Driving Roles?

To be a commercial LGV Driver in the UK you need to fulfil the following criteria:

• Be over 18 years of age.
• Hold a full car licence.
• Hold a Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC).

And the right licence for the vehicle that you intend to drive:

• Category B Main car driving licence - vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes.
• Category C1 - Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) weighing up to 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes.
• Category C - rigid vehicles weighing over 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes with trailers weighing up to 750kgs.
• Category C+E - articulated vehicles in excess of 7,500kgs/7.5 tonnes with trailers weighing more than 750kgs.

Starting a driving career may seem straightforward, but taking the right steps early on can make a big difference to your long-term success. Whether you are looking to become a delivery driver or progress into operating large goods vehicles, understanding what is required will help you move forward with confidence.

From meeting basic entry requirements to gaining hands-on experience, there are clear pathways into the industry. With demand remaining high across the UK, now is a great time to explore your options and begin building a career on the road.

Entry Requirements

Before starting a driving career, there are a few essential requirements you will need to meet. These vary depending on the type of vehicle you intend to drive, but there are some common basics across most roles.

At a minimum, you will need a full UK driving licence. For many entry-level roles, such as van or delivery driving, a standard Category B licence is sufficient. You must also meet the minimum age requirement, which is typically 18 years old for most driving jobs.

Employers will often look for a clean driving record, good awareness of road safety, and a responsible attitude. Some roles may also require a basic level of physical fitness, particularly if loading and unloading goods is part of the job.

Training and Qualifications

While some driving roles require little additional training, others involve more formal qualifications. If you plan to drive larger vehicles such as LGVs, you will need to complete the relevant licence upgrades and obtain a Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC).

Training typically includes both theoretical and practical elements, covering vehicle handling, safety procedures, and legal responsibilities. Many training providers offer structured courses designed to help you pass your tests and prepare for real-world driving scenarios.

Investing in the right training early on can open up more opportunities and allow you to progress into higher-paying roles, such as Class C or C+E driving positions.

Gaining Experience

Like many careers, experience plays a key role in developing your skills and improving your job prospects. Starting with entry-level roles such as delivery driving or working as a driver’s mate can help you build confidence and learn the day-to-day realities of the job.

As you gain experience, you will become more familiar with routes, time management, and handling different types of deliveries. This practical knowledge is highly valued by employers and can help you move into more specialised or higher-responsibility roles over time.

Being reliable, punctual, and professional will also help you build a strong reputation, making it easier to secure future opportunities.

Driving Job Salaries in the UK

There are plenty of opportunities within driving, and with excellent earning potential, this is a career that’s worth pursuing. The table below shows the highest salary available for a number of different driving jobs:

DRIVING JOB ROLE	AVERAGE UK SALARY
Abnormal / Oversize Load Driver	£50,000
Transport (Fleet) Manager	£48,000
Tanker / Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Driver	£45,000
Long Haul Truck Driver	£42,000
LGV C+E Driver	£40,000
HIAB Driver	£38,000
LGV Class C Driver	£31,000
Class 1 / 2 ADR Driver	£30,000
Van Driver	£28,500
LGV C1 Driver	£28,000
Delivery Driver	£28,000
Multi Drop Driver	£28,000
Driver's Mate	£27,000
Final Mile Courier	£26,000

To become a professional or commercial driver, you will need to be a skilled driver with excellent driving knowledge and experience, customer service skills and good communication. You will also require a Certificate of Professional Competence and the right licence for the size of vehicle you want to drive.

Other skills include, being calm under pressure, observant, easy going and a happy nature, flexible, focused, reliable, and patient. As driving is an independent role, you will also need to be solutions-orientated, confident, practical, motivated, logical, and organised.

To make a long term and successful career out of driving you will need to obtain specific skills, such as geographical knowledge, mechanical understanding, logistical planning, road safety and industry knowledge.

In our recent driver survey, 63% consider their career as a Driver to be a long-term career choice. Could you be one of them?

Pros and Cons of Driving Careers

Like any career choice, working as a Driver comes with both advantages and challenges. Understanding these can help you decide whether this type of role is the right fit for your lifestyle and career goals.

Advantages

One of the biggest advantages of a driving career is the level of independence it offers. Many roles allow you to work on your own, manage your time effectively, and avoid being tied to a desk or office environment.

Driving jobs can also offer flexibility, with a variety of shift patterns available, including part-time, full-time, and weekend work. This makes it easier to find a role that suits your personal circumstances.

In addition, there is strong demand for drivers across the UK, which can provide job security and opportunities for progression. With experience and the right qualifications, you can move into higher-paying roles or more specialised areas of driving.

Challenges

Despite the benefits, there are also challenges to consider. Driving roles can involve long hours, especially in long-haul or logistics positions, and may require early starts or late finishes.

The job can sometimes be physically demanding, particularly if it involves loading and unloading goods. Traffic conditions, tight delivery schedules, and unexpected delays can also add pressure to the role.

Additionally, working independently means you need to stay motivated and focused without constant supervision. Being able to manage stress and remain calm under pressure is essential for long-term success.

Tips for Finding Driving Jobs

Finding the right driving job is about more than just applying for roles. Taking a strategic approach can help you stand out to employers and secure a position that suits your skills and goals.

Working with Recruitment Agencies

Recruitment agencies can be a valuable resource when looking for driving work. Many specialise in logistics and transport roles, giving you access to opportunities that may not be widely advertised.

Agencies can also help match your skills and experience to suitable roles, saving you time during the job search process. In some cases, they may offer temporary or contract work, which can be a great way to gain experience and get your foot in the door.

Building a good relationship with an agency can lead to ongoing opportunities and support throughout your career.

Preparing Your CV

A well-prepared CV is essential when applying for driving roles. It should clearly highlight your driving experience, licences, qualifications, and any relevant skills such as customer service or route planning.

Be sure to include details of your driving history, including the types of vehicles you are qualified to operate and any additional certifications, such as CPC or ADR.

Keeping your CV clear, concise, and tailored to the role you are applying for will improve your chances of making a strong first impression with potential employers.

Is a Driving Career Right for You?

Choosing a career is a personal decision, and driving is no exception. It can be a rewarding and stable option for those who enjoy independence, practical work, and being out on the road.

If you value flexibility, job variety, and the opportunity to develop new skills, a driving career could be a great fit. However, it is important to consider the challenges and ensure you are comfortable with the responsibilities that come with the role.

Taking the time to understand what the job involves and what you want from your career will help you make the right decision. If it aligns with your interests and lifestyle, a driving career can offer long-term opportunities and a clear path for progression.