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If you are considering a career change and HGV driving looks like the right career for you, there are a few steps you will have to complete before you can get out on the open road.

One of which is the HGV training test.

But don’t panic, you don’t have to spend hours researching online to see what is best for you – we’ve compiled everything you need to know in one place!

What is the HGV training test? 

The HGV training testing is actually made up of multiple smaller tests and includes your theory, CPC, and practical driving tests. 

• Driver CPC part 1 test: theory – this is referred to as your theory test and involves multiple choice and hazard perception tests. 
• Driver CPC part 2 test: case studies (CPC test)
• Driver CPC part 3a test: off-road exercises (CPC test)
• Driver CPC part 3b test: on-road driving – this is your practical driving test. 
• Driver CPC part 4 test: practical demonstration (CPC test)

Multiple choice segment 

In this section, you will have 1 hour and 15 minutes to answer 100 multiple-choice questions, choosing the correct answer once you have read the question carefully. 

You don’t have to use the fill time allowance and can flag questions you aren’t sure about to save them until the end, giving you another chance to answer them correctly. 

To pass this section, you will need to score at least 85/100, or you will need to resit it. 

Hazard perception segment 

In this section, you will watch 19 computer-generated clips of journeys on UK roads and try to spot the hazards as they occur. 

18 clips will have 1 developing hazard, and one will have 2, and your job is to identify the hazards by clicking them as quickly as possible to score the maximum number of available points, from a scale of 0-5. 

When you click a small red flag will appear at the bottom of your screen so you know it has worked, and while you won’t lose points for clicking at events that are not hazards, repeatedly clicking can be seen as cheating and will lead to a score of 0 for that clip alone. 

You will have an hour in total and to pass this section, you will need to score at least 67/100. 

What is test day like?

Your theory test day for the HGV theory test is very similar to the same day for your car test and starts with getting yourself to your DVSA test centre in good time. 

When you arrive you will asked to store your personal items, such as your coat, phone, and wallet, in a locker or similarly secure location, removing only your driving licence and a bottle of water – though this can differ centre by centre so is worth checking.

Then you will check in, show your documents to the DVSA staff, and sign electronically to confirm your identity, before sitting in the waiting room until it is your allotted time to go in. 

Once called, you’ll be taken through to the computer room and the theory test computer process will be explained to you. You will also be asked to empty your pockets and your ears will be visually checked to make sure you aren’t wearing earphones to help you cheat.

You’ll then be shown to your seat and the test will begin – if you have booked to complete both sections you will start with the multiple-choice questions followed by the hazard perception segment. 

After your test(s), you’ll go back to the waiting room while the computer system calculates your results, which will be given to you by the DVSA staff on a folded letter – to keep it private. 

Whatever your results, you will then leave – it is important to note that even if you need to, you can’t book in for another theory HGV test at the DVSA test centre, you can only do this online.

How long does an HGV test take? 

Completing your HGV theory test should take at least 2 hours and 15 minutes, plus extra time for checking in and waiting for your results at the end. 

To be sure you aren’t in a rush, it’s best to set aside around 3 hours for your theory test, but rest assured, you will be out of the centre long before then. 

It is also encouraged to arrive at the centre with a little time to spare beforehand, to allow you to find the room, use the facilities if you need them, and check in before your allotted time – as if you are late you can be refused entry. 

Can I take my HGV driving test in another language?

Unfortunately, as of 7^th April 2014, you can no longer take a driving test in any language other than English, Welsh, or British Sign Language (BSL). 

This includes the use of:

• A foreign language voiceover on the theory test 
• A foreign language interpreter on your theory or practical HGV driving tests

However, there is a vast range of preparation test materials you can use in your native language to help get you ready for your tests – and many of these can be completed on a phone or tablet at your convenience. 

Can you book multiple HGV driving tests? 

Though it may seem a good way to safeguard against failing, it is not possible to book multiples of the same HGV tests – for example, multiple practical tests.  

If you are booking different HGV tests, however, for example, your theory, and practical tests, you can and most likely will have multiple tests booked at once. 

This is because the full regimen of HGV driving tests is made up of many smaller tests – including the theory tests, your practical driving test, and the CPC elements. 

The bottom line is, that as long as you haven’t booked multiples of the same type of test, you will be fine.   

How to pass the HGV test

Every driver wants to pass their HGV driving test first time, firstly as a matter of pride but also to help them save money and get earning faster.  

To help with this endeavour, what will help you pass your HGV test the first time? 

What skills do I need to pass the HGV licence?

As part of your HGV training, our experienced and helpful instructors will help you develop the skills you need to pass your many HGV tests.

These skills include: 

• Communication 
• Stress management
• The ability to work independently
• Identifying and dealing with hazards 
• Problem-solving 
• HGV driving 
• Attention to detail 
• Effective time management 
• Reliability 
• Concentration skills 
• Patient and calm driving 

You may already have developed some of these skills from your educational and working background, which gives you a good head start that you can capitalise on. 

HGV driving test pass rates

According to the latest data from the DVSA, the pass rate for the HGV practical theory tests was as follows:

• Multiple-choice questions – 68.7%
• Hazard perception – 84.7%

Which demonstrates an increase in data from the previous year (2020).

How many minors are you allowed on an HGV training test?

Just like with a Cat B car driving test, your practical HGV test has no minimum pass mark and is based on the collection of driving faults while you are behind the wheel. 

Faults are classed as either minor or serious/ dangerous, and to pass you need 15 or fewer minors and no serious faults. This could mean you get 4 or 13 minors; it doesn’t matter, you will still pass. 

Likewise, you could get 7 or only 1 minor fault, but as soon as you collect 1 serious fault, you will fail. 

But try not to worry, as long as you listen to your instructor, drive at a sensible speed for the type of road you are on, and observe regularly, you will be able to anticipate hazards and act in good time – avoiding serious faults.

How to study for your HGV practical test?

If you are currently preparing for your HGV theory test, the most important thing to remember with studying and revision is frequency. 

No matter how you revise, doing it in smaller bursts regularly will help you to learn and remember the information you need to pass.

There is now a vast array of materials available to help you pass, from apps to the GOV website, YouTube videos, and even TikToks, but most trainees also use trusted DVSA books, like:

• The Highway Code – just make sure it is the most recent copy 
• Know Your Traffic Signs
• The Official DVSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles

If you train with HGVTN, you will receive access to free online theory practice software that is designed to help you pass the first time – which can be great for revising at home and on the go!

Minimum driver hours for HGV test 

Perhaps surprisingly, there are no minimum driver hours that you must complete before taking your HGV theory test and it is possible to take your theory test before you step behind the wheel, especially if you are taking your theory test before you start your practical training. 

However, some encourage you to combine revising for your theory with practical training as it increases your exposure to road signs and markings, as well as common situations that can be covered in the hazard perception segment – helping you to revise in real-time. 

It can also help you to pass more quickly, which is important for some learners. 

Most common HGV driving test fails

To pass your HGV driving test, you need to make:

• No more than 12 driving faults (or ‘minors’)
• No serious or dangerous faults (or ‘majors’) 

In reverse order, the 5 most common reasons people fail their HGV test in the UK are:

5. Move off – safety 

Failure to move off safely from a range of road and traffic conditions will result in failure.  

It is essential that you always observe effectively, take your time, and only drive on when you are ready. 

4. Mirrors – change direction 

Another common error is to omit checking in your mirrors before you change direction. 

Using mirrors and looking thoroughly before you change direction will help stop this from becoming a hazard and keep you and others safe on UK roads.

3. Control – steering 

Just as you would in a car, you mustn’t make contact with the kerb while turning – while gentle contact is unlikely to result in failure, mounting the kerb will probably lead to test failure.  

2. Junctions – observations 

Surprisingly, the second most common reason for test failure is failing to observe carefully enough at a junction. 

Never pull out while not looking and ensure you don’t pull out into a gap that is too small, which means others or even your instructor will have to take action on your behalf. 

1. Reverse left – Control

With the most recorded fails according to DVSA data, incorrect control during reversing usually fails HGV drivers.

There is no penalty for taking your time and remaining in control, but thanks to the stress of the situation trainee HGV drivers often rush, become dangerous, and complete it in a manner that puts you and other road users at risk.

Top tips for HGV practical test

In the run-up to your test, we have a range of top tips you can follow to help you pass first time. These include:

• Only taking your test when you are ready 
• Checking the details, including what you need to bring and when
• Get a good night’s rest and have something to eat and drink beforehand
• Decide what time you will arrive and make sure not to arrive too early or late 
• Wear something comfortable that suits the weather 

This will leave you free to focus on the following during your test itself:

• Remove distractions before you set off, including keys, phones, music, etc. 
• Check your blind spots regularly 
• Use your mirrors, about every 15 seconds or so is best to ensure there are no surprises 
• Anticipate things in good time, for example, having to slow down, and complete anticipatory movements smoothly
• Stay calm and get over small mistakes quickly – dwelling on mistakes can lead to sloppier driving

Get HGV test ready with HGVTN

At HGV Training Network we offer HGV training, CPC training and bus driver training from over 50 locations across the UK, allowing you to train close to home and reduce your commute. 

We also include free online HGV theory learning materials and one-to-one support to help you become an HGV driver sooner. 

To get started, find your nearest location or call us on 0800 254 5007 and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

If you’ve been considering a career switch lately, heading out on the open road as an HGV driver may have come across your radar – and with good reason.

HGV drivers enjoy independence in their role, excellent rates of pay, a good work-life balance, and the chance to travel all over the country (and potentially the world) among a host of other benefits.

But you may be wondering – what does an HGV driver do in their day-to-day? Is there anything involved in the job that’s not quite as obvious? And would it be the right job for me?

At HGV Training Network, we’re here to give you the low-down on what’s involved in the job of an HGV driver, so you have a better understanding before you take the leap and get your HGV driving licence – along with a professional driving qualification called the certificate of professional competence (CPC).

What is the average HGV driver’s salary?

There’s no such thing as an ‘average’ day when you’re an HGV driver – the road always presents new and exciting challenges. But there are certain things every driver ticks off their list as part of their daily routine. These include things like:

• Getting up early in the morning or sleeping in to work later in the evening – depending on their schedule.
• Arriving at the depot to clock in, inspect their vehicle and collect their goods before heading out for the day.
• Driving in busy towns, cities and motorways with fluctuating levels of traffic.
• Enjoying some peace and independence while they’re behind the wheel
• Making a single drop-off or multiple stops throughout the day, depending on the items in question.
• Returning to the depot to drop off their HGV after their shift, before returning home.

The benefits of a career as an HGV driver for women

While it may be a male-dominated industry (99% of HGV drivers are male), more and more women are being encouraged to step into HGV driver roles after completing their HGV driver training.

Just as the road presents plenty of benefits for men, those same benefits still apply to women who wish to drive for a living. Female HGV drivers can enjoy excellent wages, shift work that fits around their busy personal schedules, and a role that offers plenty of peace, privacy and adventure.

Plus, by becoming a female HGV driver, you’ll be helping to cause a seismic shift in the opportunities in HGV driving that are open to women, encouraging more women to join the ranks and change their working lives for the better.

What are the wages for HGV drivers?

HGV driver wages are one of the key reasons so many people have made the switch to HGV driving in recent years – not only is it a fulfilling job, but also a very lucrative one.

To put things into perspective, a beginner HGV driver can easily accrue a salary of over £25,000 per year, with the average HGV driver salary in the UK earning around an impressive £35,000.

But that’s just the average. Depending on where you live, you stand to earn considerably more than this. In and around London, for example, HGV driver wages are far greater, on average, than they are in the North of England.

However, more experienced drivers in the right part of the country, working for the right company, can earn in the region of £60,000!

Do HGV drivers get paid per trip or per hour?

This can differ from company to company. A tenured HGV driver working for the same company for several years may be paid purely on a salary basis – a set amount per month. However, many HGV drivers who switch between working for numerous companies can be paid on both a per-hour or per-trip basis, at the discretion of the company involved.

How does overtime work as an HGV driver?

If there is an overspill of work and companies need HGV drivers for longer than they anticipated, these companies can offer drivers overtime to meet demand. In this case, the drivers are usually paid on a per-hour basis and will receive the appropriate payment for the extra hours they have worked.

However, accepting overtime as an HGV driver is a decision that needs to be taken carefully. By law, drivers are only allowed to spend a certain amount of time behind the wheel per day and must take at least a 45-minute break after every 4.5 hours of driving. If a company tries to make an HGV driver exceed the time restrictions of these rules, they are putting themselves in a very morally and legally grey area.

Having said that, drivers who stick to the accepted periods and enjoy the right amount of rest are more than welcome to accept overtime on their originally-scheduled days off, as this can act as a handy boost to their pay packets.

Will HGV driver wages go up?

Given there is still a huge demand for HGV drivers across the country (more on that in a moment) and that HGV driver wages seem to have been steadily rising  – with the occasional dip – in recent years, there’s every reason to assume wages will continue to rise at a similar rate.

It all depends on three factors: 

• Overall wages rising in line with inflation
• The demand for drivers 
• The value of the jobs they’re expected to undertake

If more high-value clientele require experienced and reliable drivers, there’s no reason they wouldn’t compensate these drivers accordingly with increased wages. Time will tell.

Is there an HGV driver union?

Yes – much like other professions, it is important for HGV drivers to ensure they receive fair treatment from their employers on a host of different matters. Enrolling in a union is one way to help make this happen.

HGV drivers can join various worker’s unions to gain the support they seek, should an issue arise that cannot be solved alone. Some driver-specific unions deal exclusively with those in the driving profession.

What is the demand for HGV drivers?

In 2021, there was a national shortage of around 100,000 HGV drivers, creating a substantial problem in the industry and leaving many important driving jobs unfulfilled. This is, in part, due to older, more experienced drivers retiring with not enough young recruits learning the trade.

However, things have improved somewhat in recent months. In March 2023, the shortage had lessened from 100,000 to 60,000 thanks to government schemes, impressive HGV training courses and attractive wages, amongst other reasons – though there is still a long way to go. So if you’re interested in becoming an HGV driver, there are still plenty of opportunities out there for you.

Can you still take holidays as an HGV driver?

Taking holidays as an HGV driver will undoubtedly differ from company to company. But, overall, HGV drivers are just as entitled to paid holiday time as anyone in any other profession. 

Consider HGV Training Network for your first steps into HGV driving

If becoming an HGV/lorry driver, earning your HGV licence and driver certificate of professional competence sounds like the right career move for you, HGV Training Network is here to help. 

With 50 training centres across the UK, all manned by experienced and personable HGV training providers, we’re your number-one pick for HGV training in the UK.

Alternatively, we also offer other qualifications, if you’re looking to do something a little different – like becoming a bus driver, for instance. Get in touch with the HGV Training Network team today to find out more.

If you’re looking for a new profession and an HGV career is catching your eye, then you’re most likely interested in the potential earnings you can make.

Our experts, with many years in the industry, have produced a helpful guide explaining the ins and outs of everything you need to know about HGV driver earnings.

Keep reading to find out just how profitable the wonderful world of professional driving is!

What is the average HGV driver’s salary?

In the UK, HGV drivers can expect to earn an average salary of £30,000, which works out to around a handsome £15.47 per hour – but, this differs between regions and companies.

Not bad for a job that offers super-high job satisfaction and plenty of travel opportunities for you to enjoy, right?

What’s more, this figure doesn’t include potential benefits, such as health insurance, or bonuses from generous employers who always look to reward staff for high work performance.

Do HGV driver earnings rise in line with inflation?

As discussed, driver earnings vary depending on the employer, however, trans.info reports that some drivers working for major companies such as Heinz have experienced pay rises in recent months. 

Given the demand for drivers, employers are having to keep up with rising inflation to ensure their HGV operators can live comfortably and prevent strikes.

Other high-paying HGV driver locations

There are several other great paying HGV driver locations across Britain, including:

• The West Midlands
• Yorkshire
• The North East
• Scotland

How much can HGV drivers earn?

Ultimately, the amount an HGV driver can earn is subject to several factors like location and hours worked – it’s also important to remember that salaries aren’t standard across the board.

Firstly, as mentioned earlier, location plays a role in how much money you can expect to make per year. Like most jobs, London wages are often the highest, however, this is often concerning the high cost of living there compared to other parts of the UK.

Secondly, if you have a full-time job, you will typically receive more money than a part-time driver working fewer hours. 40-45 hours per is the standard for a full-time HGV driver position, so annual salaries are usually based on this.

Lastly, the type of HGV you drive will also determine how much you can earn, which we’ll explore more in the following section.

Which HGV drivers make the most money?

1. ADR vehicle drivers

At the top end of the scale and making the most money are ADR drivers – this type of HGV driver is responsible for transporting tankards across the UK that contain dangerous and toxic substances, such as fuel.

These driver jobs can earn beyond £45,000, depending on your experience, location and employer.

To become an ADR driver, you must earn an ADR Training Certificate to show you know how to handle the transportation and distribution of flammable and corrosive substances.

2. Class 1 HGV drivers (Category C+E)

A driver of an articulated vehicle weighing between 7.5 tonnes and 44 tonnes can earn a similar mouthwatering salary, sometimes beyond £40,000 for specialist long-haul roles.

These vehicles are the long HGVs you come across on the motorway that have long detachable trailers.

Those driving Class 1 HGV vehicles are usually employed by distribution companies, such as Royal Mail, or manufacturers and retailers as part of their supply and logistics chain.

3. Class 2 HGV drivers (Category C)

Perfect for new drivers entering the industry, those qualified to drive rigid HGVs can earn a sizeable wage up to £40,000 for a 45-hour driving week.

This type of lorry weighs over 7.5 tonnes, without exceeding 32 tonnes – jobs that involve driving category C vehicles include delivering goods from supplier to client, such as warehouses to stores or hospitals.

4. 7.5 Ton – (Category C1)

Also known as a final mile heavy goods vehicle, a category C1 truck is one weighing up to 7.5 tonnes – jobs that involve driving these smaller lorries can expect salaries up to a delightful £30,000.

As usual, when it comes to HGV driving, your wage will depend on the hours you work per week, your location and the company you work for.

As a Category C1 driver, you can apply for jobs including delivering food orders from supermarkets to customers, or furniture removals if you’d prefer.

Where pays the most for HGV training?

Certain regions across the UK pay more than others for HGV drivers and their skill sets – this may be due to HGV drivers being scarce in the area, and where there’s high demand, there are higher wages.
Or it can result from a greater need for lorry drivers in the region due to more industry or logistics chains in the area.

According to NimbleFins, the place that offers the highest HGV driver salaries is the East Midlands, which pays £30,496 on average – this figure takes into account the cost of living in the region too, otherwise, London would take the top spot at £31,110.

Do HGV drivers earn more in major cities?

Typically, HGV drivers in big cities have higher incomes than those in other parts of the nation, but this is usually to meet the high costs of city living.

But it’s regions with a better cost of living ratio (the greater the better) that enable you to bring more disposable income home, as you don’t pay as much for necessities and housing costs.

Such regions include the East and West Midlands, Yorkshire and the North East, as mentioned earlier.

What expenses are covered when working away?

Drivers who work long days away or overnight typically have their out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed by their employer if the costs meet a set allowance. 

Such costs include meal allowances and overnight stay fees.
According to GOV.UK, if you sleep in your sleeper cab, you can usually claim up to £26.20 per night. If you stay in a hotel, you can claim up to £34.90 per night – however, these totals also cover the cost of food.

Day shift vs night vs weekend

Night and weekend driving hours tend to pay more as they’re classed as unsociable hours – but this could vary between companies.

So, it’s best to check with your potential employer if pay will increase during these hours.

Start your rewarding driving career today with HGV Training Network

Are high wages and the chance to travel simply too good to resist? To enter the fulfilling industry of supply and logistics, you’ll need to embark on a professional HGV training course to become a fully qualified HGV driver.

Our seasoned instructors have helped hundreds of people earn their HGV licence and kickstart their HGV driving careers. Plus, with over 50 modern HGV driving training centres across the UK, you’re sure to find a facility near you!

To begin your professional driving journey or to simply speak to one of our friendly team, call us on 0800 254 5007 or fill in our enquiry form and we’ll get back to you.