How to Become an LGV Driver
Understanding the LGV Driver Role
A large goods vehicle (LGV) driver, also known as a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver, is someone who is licensed to operate and drive trucks and lorries than can store over 3,500kg of weight. This is a specialised role that requires specific training and licensing in order to operate safely. LGV Drivers are essential parts of the supply chain, with the safe transportation and timely delivery of goods being essential for businesses across the UK. This is a role that requires high levels of attention and concentration, with long drive times and travel opportunities for people looking to develop their career.
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Typical Dress Code
When it comes to working as an LGV driver, it is important to wear professional but practical clothing. This can include trousers and a shirt that are comfortable to sit and drive in for long periods of time. Jeans, full-length skirts, and some shorts are typically allowed.
Key Responsibilities
As an LGV driver, you will need to ensure that you’re licensed for transporting the goods where they need to go. This includes caring for your 3.5kg tonne truck or lorry, following the highway code, and ensuring that you have the right license and documentation if transporting goods across borders.
Tips for Aspiring LGV Drivers
Aspiring LGV drivers will need to build up the stamina and attention span needed to complete long drives. Often, 3.5kg tonne trucks and lorries will have tight deadlines at long distances so making sure that you’re able to comfortably drive for these long periods of time, without a lapse in concentration, is a crucial skill for these drivers. Gaining your license is a must for these roles, so ahead of applying, make sure that you’re qualified for the position.
LGV Certification and Licensing Requirements
When it comes to becoming an LGV driver, you need to be qualified and licensed for the vehicle you will be driving. This takes some preparation and testing, as well as a comprehensive safety training course to ensure that you’re safe on the job.
Gaining Your LGV Licence
An LGV license is a Class 2 HGV driving license. This qualifies you to drive vehicles, including LGV or HGV lorries and trucks, over 7.5t or 32 tonnes. You must apply for this through the DVLA for a provisional licence and pass all tests needed to drive these vehicles. Due to the nature of the vehicle, you will need to pass higher medical standards to drive an LGV truck or lorry. Once obtained, a full Class 2 driving licence can allow you to drive a wide variety of vehicles, including the LGV lorries, as well as tipper trucks and bin lorries.
Mandatory Safety Training
LGV drivers must be capable of operating their vehicle efficiently and safely. Mandatory safety training can ensure that whether you’re on the road or at your destination, you can operate the relevant safety equipment and act during emergencies. All fleets are required to have mandatory safety training to ensure the safety of drivers and the wider public. This can include refreshing road safety rules, specific safety instructions for the handling, transportation, and management of goods, as well as first aid training.
Essential Skills for LGV Drivers
Outside of qualifications and licences, there are some skills that are essential to the role. Some key skills you’ll need if you’re considering becoming an LGV driver include:
Concentration and Attention to Detail
As with any driving role, concentration and attention to detail are crucial skills to have. Long travel times means having a method of maintaining focus is important. Finding your own method of keeping your concentration can help you excel within an LGV driving role. Attention to detail is also important both for the roads and for transporting your goods. You will be required to check your vehicle so being able to spot any faults, damage, or loose items is important.
Route Planning and Navigation
With tight travel deadlines and often unknown roads, being able to plan and renavigate a route is important for meeting delivery times and transporting your goods. Whether there are diversions on your normal route, a new drop-off, or you’re driving somewhere new, being able to navigate comfortably can help you excel within an LGV driving role. It is also important to know any road restrictions your vehicle might have, including which roads your vehicle can and cannot use, to accurately plan your route and avoid delays.
Communication Skills
Communication is important in various ways for LGV drivers. Not only do you need to accurately communicate arrival times, but being able to use interpersonal skills with other drivers can be helpful. By communicating with other drivers, you can be aware of upcoming issues and ensure that your goods are safely transported as efficiently as possible. This is important if you need to change course or direction while transporting your goods, as well as help others do the same.
Career Opportunities in LGV Driving
LGV driving offers many career opportunities so that you can find something that fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for temporary work or something more full-time.
Temp Roles as a Starting Point
Starting as a temporary LGV driver can give you the work you need while allowing you the flexibility of temporary work. This is perfect for drivers looking to start their career but need to balance it with other commitments or if you’re deciding whether LGV is for you. This career allows you to explore your local region or around the UK without committing to full-time hours. Temporary positions are a great starting point for drivers looking to expand their skills and find a routine that works for them.
Moving into Permanent Driving Positions
Finding an LGV driving role that suits you, including going where you want, at the times you want, then the next step could be to move into a more permanent driving position. Exceptional LGV driving can lead to a full-time career in this, providing you with the stability and familiarity of your regular driving experience. If you’re looking to become a full-time LGV driver, starting with a temporary position can offer excellent permanent opportunities that you know you’re comfortable with.
FAQs on Becoming an LGV Driver
Do You Need a Driver’s Licence to Drive an LGV?
Yes, you do need a driver’s licence to drive an LGV. To drive trucks and lorries that carry between 3.5t and 7.5t, you’ll need a Level C1 category driving licence. For trucks and lorries with over 7.5t capacity, you’ll need to have a LGV C category driving licence.
How Long Does LGV Training Take?
LGV training doesn’t take long to complete with most people needing only 1 week, or 5 days, to complete the practical training. However, the process of getting your licence can take much longer, with an average waiting period of 6 to 10 weeks.
What is the Average Salary of an LGV Driver?
LGV drivers can work in temporary or full-time positions with an average salary of £30,000+ a year. Starting salaries can be below this, starting at around £28,000, with some of the most experienced LGV drivers earning £40,000+ a year.
What Are the Career Progression Options for LGV Drivers?
LGV drivers can have multiple career progression routes including diversifying your schedule with temporary or full-time work. Many LGV drivers can also become specialists in sectors with common orders including foodstuff being a popular career progression. Some LGV drivers can also gain additional training in Advisory Dangerous Goods by Roads (ADR) which allows you to transport hazardous goods, including flammable liquids.
