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If you want to take HGV Class 1 training, now is the best time to do so. The shortage of drivers with HGV training has received a lot of media attention in recent months, although the problem has been around for some time. COVID-19 and Brexit have aggravated a current retention concern. We analyse the reasons for the scarcity and examine several potential alternatives.

The reason for a shortage of heavy goods vehicle drivers

The Association of Road Haulage report has claimed a lack of around 100,000 truck drivers (though current assessments indicate this number to be nearer to 70,000). Brexit and COVID-19 are commonly attributed as the main reasons for the truck driver shortage.

However, the facts are expected to be more complex and nuanced than the news suggests.

The concern involving the lack of workers pre-2020 was not caused by a failure to employ or an ageing workforce. Between the years 2015 and 2019, there were a total of 25,500 new drivers trained every year, which essentially compensated for the 10,000-each-year retirement rate.

Whilst there’s no question that COVID-19 and Brexit have had an impact, retention in the freight transport sector has been an issue for a long time. Most truck drivers leave their profession before they reach the age of 45. Only 19% of individuals under the age of 45 who carried HGV licenses in 2020 were qualified drivers, while just 32% kept their qualifications and licences.

Many others abandoned their profession. A substantial number of those above the age of 45 leave the labour force before retiring; 40,000 over-45s did so in the initial months of 2021.

From 2020, the stream of new workers could be sustained and met national demand, letting companies continue with low-paid labour and less favourable conditions of employment for truckers. For over 15 years, HGV trucker salaries have stagnated. Many drivers work extended and unpleasant hours – the reduced balance of work and life was frequently given as a cause for quitting. The latest driver scarcity seems to be due to a long-term inability to keep HGV drivers. The epidemic as well as Brexit have worsened the problem, causing it to be more apparent, which has generated media attention and government responses.

Is there a Solution?

Evidently, no one-size-fits-all solution applies to this concern. A variety of short- and long-term changes are needed. Here are some solutions that have been proposed or implemented to encourage more people to undergo HGV training and work in the truck industry:

Presenting Visas

To provide a short-term answer, the Government created visas available for HGV operators of food and fuel products. These visas, though, were only accessible to 5,000 individuals. This fails to account for the 12,500 citizens of the EU who have departed their jobs since 2020 and the 52,500 drivers in Britain who don’t want to work anymore.

Furthermore, even if more drivers qualified for the visa because there are shortages of HGV drivers throughout central Europe (although to a reduced amount than in the United Kingdom), a work visa for short-term use in the United Kingdom may not be enough to entice them. Nevertheless, this might be a temporary solution while new workers are taught or as payments are increased to encourage those who have changed occupations.

Using the Military

Although it is anticipated that military personnel will be used as drivers for a short period, this is not considered to be a lifelong answer.

Better Wages

Several experts suggest that the industry corrects itself in an open market. Contracting or employing HGV drivers to reach the growing needs for drivers would result in raised wages (particularly beyond normal working hours), enhanced working conditions and shifts, and would require improved facilities to satisfy the swelling demand for drivers.

Several businesses have already boosted their pay (some by as much as 40%), but employment has been slowed owing to a lack of work and life balance – it appears that more comprehensive adjustments are needed.

IR35

The variations to IR35 prompted many heavy truck drivers to exit the business, especially the contingent labour market. The self-employed status, as well as the reduced tax liability, had appealed to drivers.

Many contingent drivers’ assignments were deemed to be within IR35, forcing them to use a PAYE system, lose their status, or retain their self-employed rank but lose their tax benefit.

This resulted in most drivers leaving the sector and seeking employment in other industries. Those employment firms that have recognised this problem and assessed in what way they can remain self-employed beyond IR35 have had some success in improving the total of drivers on their accounts.

Lower Costs of Training

Another approach to address the shortage is to lessen or subsidise training costs. Training to become a driver requires thousands of pounds today, which might deter potential applicants. A plan was announced that provides 5,000 spots for training lessons, local funding and new “skills bootcamps”. Although this may assist with the current scarcity, the chronic problem in the industry has always been retention rather than finding fresh drivers.

To reduce the difficulty of obtaining HGV Class 1 training and a licence, some experts recommend that the Government must forever subsidise training expenditures and partner with insurance companies to give better insurance coverage for unprofessional drivers.

Adjusted Working Hours

Most HGV drivers have requested that firms give more favourable working hours, shift patterns, including breaks, to allow them to better balance work and life. Where firms can’t do so, the administration may change the Tachograph Hours and Working Time Directive rules to provide drivers with more frequent or longer rests and confine everyday driving hours.

Other permanent solutions include greater investments in roadside amenities, improved parking (with overnight parking), enhanced service stations as well as ‘truck stops’ together with other services.

For the economy of the UK to be based on the transportation industry, significant change will be required to focus on these problems. As of now, no simple solution is being offered; instead, organisations and employers at all levels will need to come up with their own solutions by combining several of the ideas mentioned above.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the shortage of HGV drivers or if you are asking yourself, “how can I find quality HGV training near me”, please speak to a representative from the Immigration or Employment department.

Finding the right company that provides complete HGV training courses and offers jobs with benefits and work/life balance can be difficult. This is where HGV Training Network can assist. We help you become a skilled HGV driver, allowing you to land the best position. Please browse our website at hgvtrainingnetwork.com or call us on 02038699001 today!

The cost of HGV driver training will always be one of the primary considerations when signing up for HGV training.

Of course, choosing the right training providers shouldn’t just be based on price – it has to be about the value you’ll be getting from the HGV training cost.

With this in mind, here are some of the most important things you should look at when looking for a proven HGV training provider.

1. Experience, certification and accreditation

The quality of training you’ll be receiving has a huge impact on your career, so make sure you get exceptional training from experienced instructors, employed by established HGV training centres with a proven record of success.

Established training centres are most likely to have instructors who will hold any necessary HGV certifications and will have built up years of valuable road experience and knowledge, which will aid your learning further.

The HGV industry is also governed by different bodies. So, make sure you choose accredited centres with tests that meet the highest standards in the UK.

2. Passing rates

Be sure to find a training centre that sets their students up for success – one way to do this is to find a training provider with high pass rates.

This means that they are teaching their trainees the right things in the right way, which paves the way towards achieving their HGV driving licence at the end of their training.

If this information isn’t readily available on the training centre’s website, make sure you ask their team directly whilst exploring different companies – you want to see a high percentage of passes coming from the HGV training centre to determine if they will help you pass your theory and practical tests.

3. Payment options for HGV Training Cost

If you have financial concerns or are working with a limited budget, but don’t want to miss out on exceptional HGV training courses, you need to check for training centres that offer flexible payment terms that allow you to spread out your HGV training cost.

This will help you work within a certain budget as you complete your HGV courses.

Remember, these training costs will be an investment towards your future, and funding your training will help you get closer to that lucrative career you’ve always wanted.

4. Accessibility to training centres

You need your full energy, concentration and focus the moment you start training, so make sure you select a training centre that is easily accessible to you.

Otherwise, you’d be spending so much time commuting or driving, wasting a lot of time and energy in the process that could hinder your ability to retain information!

Training centres like HGV Training Network has numerous centres spread across the UK, to make sure that lorry driver training opportunities are accessible to all, no matter where you’re located. Having multiple locations allows you to choose the most accessible centre and maximises the time you spend in training.

5. Possibility of employment after practical training

The end goal of HGV driver training is getting the best long-term employment opportunities afterwards, but wouldn’t it be even better if employment was part of the package?

This industry has continued to thrive in the past couple of years, which means there’s an array of employment opportunities available. However, finding a job takes a lot of time and can be difficult for new drivers entering the industry.

So, it’s best to not only consider HGV training costs but to also look for a training centre that provides employment opportunities after you gain your HGV licence.

This means that you get to practice everything you learned right after passing your practical test and can see your return on investment faster.

Did you know – here at HGV Training Network, our recruitment partner Blue Arrow can help you find your first professional driving job after passing the DVSA test!

What are the benefits of being an HGV driver?

Here are some of the reasons why you should switch up your career and enter the professional driving industry:

1. Plenty of job opportunities

HGV drivers are a vital element of the UK’s logistics network that transports products and materials across the nation – the past few years have demonstrated this sector’s critical role in the UK economy.

This is why many companies are frequently looking for fully-trained drivers, resulting in the scarcity of HGV drivers. Therefore, holding an HGV class licence puts you in high demand.

Plus, there are a large number of HGV drivers under the age of 25, suggesting drivers have a good chance of finding employment from an early age.

3. Job security

Similarly, the security of a driving job is one of the most appealing aspects of becoming an HGV driver.

People are eager to employ qualified HGV operatives due to the shortage of drivers, and given the current cost of living crisis, it’s comforting to know that your job is secure.

2. More freedom

With HGV driving, there’s an added element of freedom which is unrivalled by many other roles – this professional path would especially be ideal for those tired of working a tedious 9-5 job.

You’ll no longer be micro-managed, won’t have to deal with office politics or uninteresting chores, and will have plenty more time for things that interest you.

Instead, you can get behind the wheel, turn Smooth radio on or whatever you’d prefer, and hit the road, leaving your mundane office job behind.

4. Travel opportunities

Job opportunities are abundant within the professional driving sector that can take you across the UK – it allows you to go to places you wouldn’t have been able to visit otherwise due to your job. 

What’s more, it can even take you across Europe and beyond depending on your role!

So, what do you need to do to get out on the UK roads as an HGV driver? 

How do I start my HGV training?

If you already have a standard car licence and are looking to enter a new career in professional driving, then you need to know the following – here’s a step-by-step guide to the whole HGV training course process:

• Choose a training company you trust that offers affordable HGV training
• Apply for the right HGV licence 
• Take a medical examination
• Complete your theory exam
• Start your hands-on training
• Get your HGV licence

Types of HGV Licences

Every motor vehicle has a different capacity, determining which licence category it falls into.

This means you need to apply for the correct licence, be trained to drive the right sized vehicles and pass all tests to earn the corresponding licence type.

The following are the most common licences:

The 7.5 Ton Cat C1 licence

Cat C1 vehicles are the smallest trucks used for transportation, weighing between 3,500 and 7,500 kg – however, a trailer weighing up to 340 kg can also be added to this type of truck.

This licence category enables you to drive trailers, horseboxes, delivery vans, and ambulances.

Class 2 – Cat C licence

A Cat C1+E license allows you to drive lorries or trucks weighing over 7,500 kg, with a rigid base that doesn’t exceed 32,000 kg.

These vehicles include tractors with long trailers, refuse trucks, and fire engines.

Class 1 – Cat C1+E licence

A Cat C1+E, also known as the HGV Class 1 licence allows you to drive the largest vehicles on the road that weigh between 7,500 – 44,000 kg, and a trailer weighing up to 750 kg.

This includes the articulated distribution lorries you see on motorways.

With this licence, you can drive any of the HGVs or LGVs listed above too. Just looking to use a trailer? At HGV Training Network we also offer trailer training for those just looking to get a trailer license.

What you need to know about the HGV Practical Driving Test

After choosing your training provider and passing your HGV theory test with flying colours, you’ll next have to pass your practical driving test to gain your licence. 

During your practical driving test, the examiner rates you on how well you:

• Make use of the vehicle controls
• Take a step back and away at an angle, both uphill and downhill
• Make a safe stop
• Look in your mirrors
• Indicate with the correct signals
• Are aware of and anticipate the intentions of other road users
• Manage your progress and control the speed of your car
• Respond to dangers
• Select a safe stopping place

There’s a 10-minute period of independent operation at the end – this is to simply see whether you can drive safely while making autonomous judgments.

If you are now ready to take on your HGV training, then it’s time you get in touch with us. can accommodate you at any time that’s convenient for you! Feel free to explore our website for more information.

How much does HGV training cost?

As HGV training courses are often tailored to the needs of each trainee driver, it’s difficult to put a price on the exact costs of HGV professional training.

For example, if you’ve had previous training before but didn’t complete the full course, you’ll likely require less training in comparison to a student with no previous experience – which would reduce the cost of your driver training.

For an accurate HGV training prices estimate, it’s always best to request a quote from a reputable training provider, such as The HGV Training Network.

Can I do HGV training on finance?

Eager to enter the fulfilling industry of HGV driving and earn your HGV licence, but can’t afford to pay for your training course in one bulk sum?

Well, with flexible financing, you can now pay for your HGV training courses month by month instead, depending on your provider.

This is great as you can wave goodbye to your office job without worrying about paying for training in full initially – making HGV courses accessible to all.

Is HGV training free?

Some HGV and LGV training courses are Government or company-funded, meaning you won’t have to pay for training. However, this funding is very competitive, and the HGV skills bootcamps created by the Government end on the 31st of March 2024.

However, some companies do offer free driver training with the promise of employment with the company after passing your practical and theory tests.

To read more about free HGV training and how to apply for free HGV training in the UK, take a look at our Funding for HGV Training blog.

How much does it cost to renew an HGV licence in the UK?

HGV drivers across the UK need to renew their licence every five years – this is to keep their Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) valid. Additionally, they must also renew their photocard licence every 10 years, the same as you would a car licence.

The HGV licence cost for renewals are as follows:

• £34 online
• £43 by post
• £23 for photocard renewal

Contact HGV Training Network today

Here at HGV Training Network, we are an established provider of professional HGV training courses across the UK.

We’re also proud to offer finance packages which will allow you to pay for your HGV training in smaller, more convenient chunks, rather than a single lump sum.

If you’d like to know more about financing your training, feel free to get in touch with our team today, and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.

The East Midlands has been named as the Best Region in Great Britain to be an HGV driver.

Before thinking about taking your theory and practical tests, you first need to apply for your provisional license. 

HGV driver work hours are currently regulated by EU law

If you already have a Driver CPC Qualification, chances are you will already know exactly what is involved in getting one.

People are always a bit curious and they want to test the limits with something new, something amazing and something different. With this thought in mind, truck drivers across the globe made something new, amazing and more precisely – different.

Here are the 5 longest trucks in the world, and a little about their history.

5. The Peterbilt Truck.

Mainly considered a class 8 truck, the Peterbilt is the 5th entry in this list. The back of this truck is extremely large and long – it is complete with a polished body and an outstanding look. With companies all over the world using this truck, it is most commonly used to serve cold drinks for companies.

4. The Lindsay Transport B-Double

One of the longest trucks in the world, this mighty truck is named Lindsay Transport B Double. Extremely large for its capability to pull two trailers at a time. Unlike any other ordinary trucks, this vehicle has 18 wheels and can pull really heavy loads. The ability to run two trailers allows companies to enjoy cost and time savings by being able to deliver two trips at once. Considering learning how to drive a trailer? Take our trailer training course at HGV Training Network.

3. The Volvo NH-15

This road train is used all over the Americas – with it most commonly found in remote areas of the United States, Canada, Argentina and Mexico as well as commonly carrying freight all over Australia. This truck is known as a road train for its ability to run two or three trailers in just one trip. Originally produced to serve the shipping industry, it delivered a huge amount in just one trip.

2. The Mighty Mack Titan

This heavy-duty truck is produced by the famous car marker Mack Trucks. At the very beginning, the company produced the 18-wheel Mack Titan at the Australian market in early 1995. 23 years later the second version of this Mack Titan was produced in North America in 2008.

The heavy-duty frame can easily deal with the stress of carrying nearly 200 tonnes. Having a huge engine, this truck is one of the greatest – remaining the longest truck in the world until the Australian road train was produced.

1. The Giant Australian Road Train

Also known as the land train, the Australian road train is one of the biggest and longest trucks in the world – used in rural areas of Europe, Australia and the United States. This truck is mainly a custom-built truck, fitted with some 28 axles and more than 100 wheels.

Suited for back road areas for it’s shape and carrying capacity this truck is mainly used to deliver huge amounts of materials to farms and mining companies. The rig is nearly 160 feet long and it can carry up to 205 tonnes at any one time.

We offer HGV training from over 50 training centres across the country at HGV Training Network. Meaning you can receive training from our HGV experts near you. For those requiring a refresher to keep their license we offer CPC courses and for those looking to develop their career we offer HIAB training and ADR training to increase your earning potential.