HGV News

Becoming a shunter driver could be the best career move you ever make given the attractive salary and job freedom associated with this role.

But what exactly is a shunter driver and what does the job entail?

Within this blog, you can discover more about the vital role of HGV shunter drivers in logistics and construction, their responsibilities, and how to become one with HGV training.

What exactly is a shunter driver?

A shunter driver, or a yard shunter, is responsible for safely operating large vehicles across construction sites. These trained professionals are essential in the construction and logistics sectors and help to keep work yards, ports, and loading docks functioning efficiently.

HGV shunter drivers and their role in logistics

Shunter drivers have a range of duties within their job role but this may vary depending on the industry type and site where they work. For example, yard shunters may work on construction sites, loading docks, shipping yards, and more.

Their responsibilities may include:

• Directing and moving freight trains
• Manoeuvring large vehicles and trailers safely around company premises
• Coupling and uncoupling lorry trailer units
• Ensuring strict health and safety standards are followed to avoid workplace collisions and other dangers
• Conducting safety inspections
• Examine vehicles and trailers to ensure they’re road-safe
• Parking LGVs and trailers

How much do shunter drivers earn?

If you’re interested in becoming a shunter driver, you’re probably intrigued to know the earning potential associated with the role.

• Newly qualified drivers typically earn around £20,000,
• Experienced yard shunters can expect to earn between £20,000 and £35,000.
• Senior-level drivers can often earn salaries above £35,000.

These figures can vary depending on your location, the company you work for, and hours worked.ng licence.

How to become a shunter driver

To work as a shunter driver, you require a standard car licence and may need an LGV C+E driving licence (Class 1) – this licence permits you to drive some of the largest vehicles on the road, such as lorries with detachable trailers.

In order to earn your C+E licence, you must embark on a recognised HGV training course with a trusted provider – only an established company will provide you with the adequate training needed to apply for shunter roles.

HGV training courses will teach you the essential skills necessary to manoeuvre large vehicles safely and pass your practical and theory exams, which must be done before being awarded your HGV licence.

During HGV training, students learn all the beneficial skills required to become a shunter operator including:

• Reversing wide and long vehicles with trailers into loading bays
• Turning and navigating corners in an HGV
• Conducting safety assessments that prevent serious or fatal injuries
• Coupling and uncoupling trailers

Plus many more.

In addition to the above training elements, you’ll be taught critical theoretical knowledge which will help you pass your HGV theory test with flying colours!

The course also includes CPC training, which is required by law. CPC training elements ensure drivers are informed about important aspects of vehicle safety.

Plant operator apprenticeships are also available, providing shunter training and helping pave the way towards a career in shunter driving. However, these qualifications are typically reserved for younger people looking to enter the industry after high school.

Gain your LGV C+E licence today

Here at HGV Training Network, we have years of experience in the field and offer training in 50 locations across the UK.

We’re an established and reliable training provider with an excellent record of success thanks to our seasoned instructors who all boast many years in the HGV driving industry.

So, if you’re eager to switch careers and enter the rewarding profession of shunter driving, call us today to book your place on one of our training courses.

If you spend your time among horses, it’s not totally unheard of that you will need to transport them. 

Whether it’s to or from summer grazing or a stable, or even to the equine vet, horses can need to be transported frequently throughout their lives. 

But are you allowed?

What size horsebox can I drive on a car licence? 

All car drivers on UK roads can pull a horsebox as long as the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) is 3.5 tonnes or less.

However, if you passed your practical driving test before 1^st January 1997, you can legally:

• Pull a horsebox (or trailer) up to 8.25 tonnes
• Drive a horsebox under 7.5 tonnes 

As you automatically have the B + E licence.  *Did you know HGV Training Network can help aspiring drivers with many vehicle types? To find out more, explore our HGV training today!

Do I need horsebox or trailer training? 

But what about if you passed your test after 1^st January 1997?

Well, then you find horsebox training! 

Also known as trailer training, a category B + E car and trailer licence allows you to drive a rigid, laden horsebox of 3.5 tonnes. 

Likewise, you can also drive a car and pull a trailer or horsebox with a maximum laden weight of 3.5 tonnes.

But, like with a category B (car) licence, there are also date-dependent limitations here. The size of the trailer depends on the BE ‘valid from’ date on your licence – if you passed: 

• Before 19^th January 2013 – you can tow any trailer size within the limits of your car.

You’ll need to check the vehicle handbook or ask the manufacturer to find out this limit for your car. 

• On or after 19 January 2013, you can tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 3,500kg within the towing limits of the vehicle

But what if you need to transport multiple horses or your MAM exceeds 3.5 tonnes?

Category C training 

For larger loads, a category C training course should be sufficient for most, as it allows drivers to handle smaller, rigid vehicles/horseboxes over 7.5 tonnes as long as they don’t exceed 32 tonnes. 

Plus, you can also include a trailer up to 750 kg – perfect for all of those equine essentials. 

*Need a way to pay for training? With industry-leading finance options, HGVTN can get your new career off the start line in just a week!  help aspiring drivers with many vehicle types? To find out more, explore our HGV training today! 

What does MAM include? 

If you are about to move your pony pal or tow a trailer, you need to keep an eye on the MAM of the whole load. 

This includes:

• The horsebox 
• The fuel 
• The horse 
• Any bedding or straw as well as any tack

It is important to note that the actual weight of the trailer may not exceed the unladen weight of the drawing vehicle – essentially, your horsebox and its contents can’t be heavier than your car. 

Top tips

To find your car’s MAM, you can check:

• The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) plate
• The car’s handbook 
• With the car’s manufacturer

To double-check the weight of your vehicle and trailer/horsebox, travel to your nearest weighbridge. 

However, it’s worth noting that if you don’t at least roughly work it out before you get out on the road, you could be prosecuted if you are caught with excess weight, as you won’t have the right driving licence.

Travel with your horse safely with HGVTN! 

Whether you are looking for horsebox training to refresh your skills or need category C training to move multiple horses with confidence, HGV Training Network can help.

For a bespoke quote or to book at a convenient training centre, email contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com or fill in our contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!  

Given just how many duties are involved in lorry driving and how many intricate roles drivers must undertake during their day-to-day, it is understandable that many of these roles require their own unique qualifications. 

HIAB drivers are one such example of those who must earn their licences that go beyond standard HGV licences, to operate the machinery and vehicles in their care.

But what exactly is a HIAB driver? How do they differ from other lorry drivers and what does one need to do to become a HIAB driver?

At HGV Training Network, we’re home to a plethora of driving courses – including HGV training, CPC training, HIAB training courses and more – so you can gain in-depth knowledge and experience before starting your new career as a fully qualified driver. Whatever you want to drive!

Speak to a HGVTN staff member today to learn more about HIAB courses and HIAB training costs, or keep reading to gain a deeper understanding of HIAB drivers.

Did You Know – HGV Training Network is home to a fantastic finance plan that allows new students to train now, pay later? You won’t find that with all training providers. Click here to read all about it!

HIAB driver meaning

A HIAB driver is someone qualified and authorised to load, offload, transport and operate lorry-mounted cranes.

A common piece of workplace transport equipment, you’ve probably seen a lorry-mounted crane when you’ve been out on the road. They look similar to other HGVs, with the addition of a retractable crane on the back.

HIAB stands for ‘Hydrauliska Industri AB’ – a company that innovated the use of such cranes on lorries, founded in 1944. Since this time, the name of the company has become synonymous with this type of crane-equipped lorry, to the point it has become an umbrella term to cover all such lorries.

As lorry drivers up and down the country are sometimes expected to haul overly large or heavy loads and items that are difficult to manoeuvre with other equipment, these cranes can be infinitely useful, allowing the user to move the relevant goods at will, with ease.

To become a HIAB driver, you first need to earn the correct HIAB licence. You can do this by studying with approved training companies, like HGV Training Network.

Our staff is comprised of fully qualified drivers with vast experience in all aspects of the haulage and transportation industries – including HIAB driving. With our team, you’ll undergo practical training and theory revision.

We can also assist you in earning all associated qualifications you may need to drive professionally, including your CPC (certificate of professional competence) along with arranging your medical examination if this is required.

In short, we offer a comprehensive driver-learning environment that’s undoubtedly your fastest and most efficient way to drive the vehicles you want to drive to make a living.

Click here to learn more about HGVTN, or drop us a message to speak to a member of our team.

What is a class 2 HIAB driver?

Technically, all HIAB drivers are class 2 HIAB drivers.

To legally drive a HIAB, you need to have earned your class 2 licence, also known as the Cat C licence.

This licence is considered the “entry-level” HGV licence and is the most common licence held by HGV drivers across the country. Many of the students who learn with HGVTN do so to earn their Cat C licence before moving on to other qualifications if they wish.

But don’t worry, at HGV Training Network, we offer training in all of the above and more, making us your one-stop shop for all your lorry training needs. 

How long does a HIAB licence last for?

Once you’ve successfully passed all your HIAB exams and have received your HIAB licence, that licence is valid for five years, meaning you won’t need to undergo any more training or refresher courses during this time.

After five years have passed, you’ll need to take refresher training and examinations to retain your licence. 

If you’re already a HIAB driver and you’re coming up on your five-year mark, HGV Training Network is here to help with your refresher training and examinations, so you can keep hold of your HIAB licence and not lose any work.

Start your HIAB training course with HGV Training Network 

If you’re ready to take the next step in your driving career and want to master operating crane-assisted lorries, HGV Training Network is here to help.

With over 50 training centres across the UK, you’ll never have to travel too far to learn the skills and knowledge you need to become a fully qualified HIAB driver.

We offer HGV training, HIAB training, lorry loader training, ADR training and more – whatever vehicles you wish to drive, we can help you get there.

Speak to HGVTN today to find out more, and if you’re asking yourself ‘How much does HIAB training cost?’ be sure to enquire about our train now, pay later finance packages that allow you to spread the cost of your HIAB course, making it far more affordable.

If you’re already an accomplished HGV driver and are looking to change things up by switching to another area of the driving profession or you’re a budding first-timer wanting to enter the world of professional driving and start from scratch, you may have come across the PCV licence.

It’s a common accreditation, but one that is required by law if you want to drive certain vehicles with a certain number of passengers.

But what exactly is a PCV licence? What type of vehicles can you drive with a PCV licence and what do you need to do to earn one?

The experts at HGV Training Network are here to shed some light on all these questions for you, so you can make the right decision about your next training programme and your driving career moving forward.

So, keep reading to learn more. Or if you’ve already been looking for a PCV training school and are ready to dive in head-first, find out more about PCV training from HGVTN here.

Did You Know – HGVTN is home to over 50 HGV training centres scattered across the country, so you’ll never be a stone’s throw away from a professional driver training facility where you can enjoy the very best PCV training!

PCV licence meaning

PCV stands for ‘Passenger Carrying Vehicle’ and, as you can guess, you will need to earn a PCV licence if you wish to drive such vehicles professionally in the United Kingdom.

These vehicles can include buses, minibuses, and coaches. Though the specific vehicle you will be able to drive and the specific number of passengers you’ll be able to accommodate will depend on what type of PCV licence you earn – more on this in a moment.

What can you drive with a PCV licence?

A PCV licence is also known as a ‘Category D’ or ‘Cat D’ licence. If we break things down even further, the Category D licence comes in two forms:

D1 – This licence allows you to operate a minibus, but it must not seat more than 16 passengers.

D – This licence allows you to drive larger passenger vehicles (a bus or coach) with over 16 passengers. Also known as a full PCV licence.

There’s also the D1+E licence, which allows you to drive minibuses, as mentioned above, as well as trailers up to 750kg.

You’ll need to undergo PCV training with an experienced, reliable training provider like HGVTN if you wish to earn either your D or D1 PCV licence. But it should be noted that you’ll also need a full standard driving licence before undertaking any training.

What is the difference between PSV and PCV licence?

During your research into the PCV licence, you may have also come across something called the PSV licence, which stands for ‘Public Service Vehicle’.

These two terms often come up together a lot, which can be very confusing when you’re trying to figure out the exact licence you need to drive the vehicles you want to drive.

But, in this case, there’s nothing to worry about. The PSV licence is simply the old terminology that was replaced with the PCV licence back in 1992.

You might still hear the term thrown around by drivers in the trade who were still driving back in the early nineties, or even sooner, but think nothing of it. The only licence you need to focus on earning is the PCV licence.

What do I need to get a PCV licence?

As mentioned above, you’ll first need to have held your standard car licence for at least 12 months before attempting to earn a PCV licence. You’ll also need to be at least eighteen years of age.

But beyond this, you’re pretty much ready to begin training and studying to earn your PCV licence, which you can do with HGV Training Network.

It’s not too dissimilar to the training and practice you experience when learning to drive a car for the first time. As part of your preparation for the test, you’ll need to undergo practical training which involves driving a real-life passenger vehicle – you’ll need to show you can drive this vehicle competently before attempting your practical driving test.

Then, there’s also a 100-question PCV theory test you’ll need to pass. But don’t worry, when learning with an experienced training provider like HGVTN, you’ll be given all the tools you need to pass with flying colours.

If you manage to pass both your practical PCV driving test and theory exams, along with a legally required PCV medical examination and CPC (certificate of professional competence) exams, you’ll be awarded your PCV licence and will be ready to take large passenger-carrying vehicles out on the open road!e throughout 5-years and you’ll be well on your way to maintaining your professional licence and driver CPC card.

Explore HGV training and PCV driver training with HGV Training Network

Now that you’re more aware of what exactly the PCV licence is and how you can earn one, HGV Training Network is here to help you take the next step.

When training with HGVTN, you’ll benefit from learning under real-life professional drivers who have been exactly where you are and are ready to share their wealth of knowledge with you to help you pass your theory and practical test with ease.

To find out more about PCV training at HGVTN, click here or speak to a member of the HGVTN team for more information about our courses and our attractive financing options.

All aspiring professional lorry drivers must complete driver CPC training if they want to enter the rewarding field of HGV driving. But what exactly is driver CPC training, and how many CPC modules are there?

You can find out all you need to know about driver CPC throughout this blog, so carry on reading!

What is driver CPC training?

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, commonly abbreviated as Driver CPC, is a recurring professional development that continues throughout a HGV driver’s career.

Driver CPC was introduced to enhance road safety by ensuring that professional drivers are aware of updated health and safety requirements, and any other advancements in the sector.

There are two types of CPC training: initial and periodic training, both of which professional drivers must complete to drive a heavy goods vehicle legally. We’ll explain more about each throughout this blog.

What are the initial CPC modules?

Initial driver CPC training, or the CPC initial, is mandatory training for new-professional drivers. It’s for those who earned a lorry entitlement after the 9th of September 2009 and haven’t held a CPC beforehand.

The initial CPC is comprised of two elements: CPC Case Studies (CPC Module 2 Theory Test) and CPC Practical (CPC Module 4).

CPC Case Studies

The third and final test you do as part of your HGV training starts with the first part of the CPC.

CPC module 2 is a theory test that gives you seven “case studies” based on real-life situations you’ll likely come across whilst driving an HGV.

You get 1 hour 15 minutes to complete between 6-8 multiple choice questions on each case study. In total, there are 50 questions to answer and the pass mark is 40 out of 50 (80%).

CPC Practical

This practical demonstration test covers the parts of being a lorry operator aside from driving, such as vehicle safety checks.

You’ll be trained on how to conduct the various checks before taking a “show me, tell me” style examination. While showing the examiner how to perform each, you must also tell them what you’re doing.

After completing your initial CPC training, you’ll gain your driver qualification card, also known as a driver CPC card. This means you’re now fully qualified and able to use your professional licence for work!

What’s involved in driver CPC periodic training?

Periodic CPC training, or the interim CPC, is a training necessity that HGV drivers must fulfil every five years to ensure their licence stays valid.

If you drive a HGV without a valid CPC, you can be fined up to £1,000 or even lose eligibility to drive HGVs professionally – so, it’s essential that you maintain your CPC qualification.

Periodic CPC is for drivers who have held a lorry entitlement (C1, C1+E, C or CE) before 9th September 2009 or individuals who are renewing a CPC.

The training consists of classroom-based refresher modules that build on existing knowledge – with CPC periodic training, there are no questions to answer as it’s purely an attendance-based course. So, all you need to do to pass is turn up on time and don’t fall asleep!

How many periodic CPC modules do I need to complete, and how long do they take to finish?

Each module lasts for 7 hours (not including breaks), and you need to pass 5 CPC modules (35 hours of training every 5 years) to achieve your periodic driver CPC qualification.

Drivers typically choose to complete one module per year, but it’s entirely up to them how they wish to do it.

List of periodic course modules we offer at HGV Training Network

The content of periodic CPC modules varies between HGV training providers, but ultimately they all aim to improve driving skills, safety, emergency first aid, fuel-efficient driving and environmental responsibility. Here are the 7-hour course modules we offer here at HGV Training Network:

• Health and Safety & Fire Marshal
• Company Image & Driver Lifestyle
• Security & First Aid
• Drivers Hours & Tachographs
• Vehicle Checks & Weight Dimensions (Lorry Only)
• Eco Driving & Vulnerable Road Users

All you need to do is complete five of the above throughout 5-years and you’ll be well on your way to maintaining your professional licence and driver CPC card.

CPC training at HGV Training Network

In addition to our LGV, HGV and ADR training courses, we offer CPC driver training here at HGV Training Network. Initial driver CPC training is included as part of your HGV training, and we also provide periodic driver CPC training modules for those looking to keep their licence valid.

For more information, you can call our helpful team on 0800 254 5007, or we can help you book your HGV training today! or email us at contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

HGV walkaround checks are an integral part of the day-to-day life of an HGV driver for both safety and legal reasons. 

But what are HGV daily walkaround checks, why are they needed, and who should complete them?Join our HGV training experts as they go through this everyday essential in more detail to answer your most pertinent questions in this article.

What are HGV vehicle checks?

HGV vehicle checks are several walkaround inspections vehicle operators must complete to ensure their lorry is safe to drive.

These crucial checks are a vital part of commercial vehicle safety and help to prevent incidents such as collisions, breakdowns, bridge strikes, and more! 

These checks can also stop you from receiving hefty fines or more severe penalties, so are well worth the time, but we’ll explore more about this later on.ontrol a variety of vehicles? If combining driving and lifting is for you, browse our HIAB training to find out more! . 

How often should a HGV be inspected?

HGVs must be examined daily to ensure its safe to drive for the day ahead. 

Heavy vehicle checks must be conducted every day This is because defects may have occurred since the truck’s last inspection and may not have been noticed as they happened.

How often should a HGV be inspected?

HGVs must be examined daily to ensure its safe to drive for the day ahead. 

Heavy vehicle checks must be conducted every day This is because defects may have occurred since the truck’s last inspection and may not have been noticed as they happened.

After assessing the above, your vehicle check should be complete.

What happens if defects are found?

Suppose any safety defects are found during the check. In that case, they must be recorded, reported, and fixed before the HGV can be considered roadworthy again – for the sake of yourself and other road users, you mustn’t drive the vehicle until the issues have been addressed.

When reporting defects, record the vehicle registration, date details, and information about the issues and hand them over to the individual in charge of vehicle safety in your organisation.

Here’s a GOV.UK goods vehicle defect report template if you haven’t already got one.

Who should complete HGV daily walkaround checks and is it a legal responsibility?

Drivers are legally responsible for conducting all the relevant walkaround checks. If there’s more than one driver, each driver taking charge should perform these checks.

The police and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) officers can pull you over at any time to inspect your HGV. If problems are identified, you can be prevented from driving until you address them, a fine may be issued, and you could even gain penalty points on your licence.

HGV drivers could also be instructed to attend a driver conduct hearing if they’ve committed offences relating to drivers’ hours and tachographs – this could have been a result of failing to calibrate their tachograph device during their walkaround checks.

How long should an HGV walkaround take?

An HGV daily walkaround check should take 15 minutes on average, although this may vary depending on any defects detected.

With this in mind, it’s important to be on time for your shift so you have adequate time to perform these critical checks and report defects to your transport manager. The earlier they’re made aware of issues, the quicker a solution can be found so you can continue your work for the day.

HGV trailer MOT checklist

In addition to daily walkaround checks for commercial vehicles, each must have a yearly MOT like a standard car. MOTs are performed by qualified mechanics and offer a more complete evaluation of an HGVs roadworthiness. 

If your vehicle fails its MOT, you won’t be able to drive it legally until any issues are addressed.

The following components will be examined:

• Brakes and brake systems
• Lights and indicators
• Exhaust emissions
• Suspension
• Bodywork
• Steering
• Windscreen
• Tyres

For a deeper exploration into HGV MOTs, take a look at our How to check your HGV MOT status blog.

Speak with our experts today

From LGV and HGV courses to specialist and CPC training, we provide hundreds of aspiring drivers each year with the experience and qualifications to start a brand new career on the road. 

Interested in hearing about the HGV training services we offer here at HGV Training Network? Feel free to call us on 0800 254 5007 or email us at contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Is your ADR training out of date? 

Looking for a provider of ADR training for existing ADR card holders? 

Either way, the team at HGV Training Network can help, with comprehensive training from experts in the haulage industry.

How often do you need to take the ADR refresher course? 

An ADR refresher course is a legal necessity for ADR drivers and must occur every 5 years – at least 6 weeks before your card expires. 

ADR – Accord European relative au transport international des merchandises Dangereuses par Route – training equips HGV drivers with the skills and expert knowledge needed to deliver a range of dangerous substances and goods on the roads of Europe and the UK. 

The term ‘dangerous goods’ includes: 

• Explosives
• Gases
• Flammable liquids
• Flammable solids
• Oxidising substances
• Toxic substances
• Radioactive substances
• Corrosive substances
• Miscellaneous substances believed to be harmful to health

And is specific to how they will be delivered – either in packages or in tankers. 

*Did you know HGV Training Network can help aspiring drivers control a variety of vehicles? If combining driving and lifting is for you, browse our HIAB training to find out more! . 

What is covered by the ADR refresher course? 

Full ADR or refresher courses involve drivers adding different dangerous goods classes to their ADR card – which gives bespoke training on only the goods they intend to carry. 

Each ADR refresher course is made up of a basic structure which includes: 

• 1 Core module 

As well as:

• Class 2: Gases 
• Class 3: Flammable liquids 
• Class 4.1: Flammable solids 
• Class 4.2: Spontaneously combustible 
• Class 4.3: Dangerous when wet 
• Class 5.1: Oxidisers 
• Class 5.2: Organic peroxide 
• Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances 
• Class 8: Corrosives 
• Class 9: Miscellaneous 

Plus the relevant class examinations for all classes taken.

Optional ADR modules

Drivers will need to include packages and/or tankers on their course list, depending on how the goods they deliver will be transported.

Likewise, Class 1 explosives or Class 7 radioactive materials can also be added if this will be relevant to them. 

Driver CPC training 

Helpfully, up to 14 hours of ADR training can be counted towards the 35 hours of driver CPC training – which also takes place on a 5-year cycle. 

To ensure these hours count, you’ll need to email the DVSA with: 

Proof you completed the training – like a copy of your training certificate

Your name

Driving licence number

Date of birth

Address

The date you completed the training

What happens if I fail my module exam?

As each ADR driver will sit an exam for each individual class (or module), it is possible to fail the odd one here or there. 

If this happens, you will need to retake just the test for that specific module within 16 weeks of the training. 

Retaking the test after 16 weeks will mean you will have to do the training for that module or class again, which will incur extra expense and time. 

*Need a nearby training location to box off your ADR? With over 50 sites across the UK, you won’t need to go far. 

ADR refresher course price

As the basic ADR refresher course price can change depending on the modules/classes you need to cover and the way you will be transporting goods, you will need to enquire with the team directly for a quote. 

This allows us to offer bespoke pricing, so you are never quoted more than you need to pay to complete your full or ADR refresher course with our experienced driver team. 

Plus, thanks to low APR HGV training finance and minimal deposits to get started, the team at HGVTN make it easier than ever to get started. 

Complete your ADR refresher with HGVTN! 

Whether you need ADR training pronto or are looking to book it well in advance, the friendly and accomplished team at HGV Training Network can help. 

For a bespoke quote or to book at a training centre conveniently positioned near you, email us at contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com or fill in our contact form and we’ll be in touch! ong our HGV driver instructors and can point you to the help you need. 

Wondering if driving HGVs is the best way to combine earning and travelling? 

Keen to see a bit more of the world than the biggest motorways in the UK? 

For many, after the completion of their HGV training, driving abroad is an exciting and attractive proposition – but what do you need to know before you can get started? 

The team at HGVTN has compiled the most asked questions from would-be drivers like yourself in this simple and clear blog, to give you the answers you are seeking once and for all. 

Read on today to discover for yourself!

Is my UK HGV theory test valid abroad/in other countries?

If you are planning to earn a living while working abroad, you’ll need to make sure your paperwork is in order – especially since Brexit in 2020.

Failure to do so can lead to prosecution and failure to complete the job you’ve been hired for. These documents include: 

1. UK driving licence 

If you completed your driving qualifications in the wider UK, you are also qualified to drive in the EU (including Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein) as long as you carry your photocard licence at all times. 

This means your theory and practical tests are valid. 

However, if you have a paper licence or one that was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man, you’ll also need to purchase an International Driving Permit – IDP. 

There are three types of international driving permits and which one you need depends on what country you are visiting – so you may need more than one across your travels. 

IDPs come in the following three types: 

• 1926
• 1949
• 1968

And can be purchased from any store with PayPoint capabilities, such as local convenience stores or the Post Office. 

2. Driver CPC 

While your driver CPC training (Certificate of Professional Competence) is valid, you will also need to carry your Driver Qualification Card (DQC) to demonstrate this and ensure legal passage in the EU or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. 

3. Passport 

You should carry your passport when driving abroad – most people know this. 

But you may not know that there are specific parameters on what makes your passport legal, including: 

• Being less than 10 years old 
• Having at least 6 months left before it expires

As such, you should be sure to check before you leave for Europe. 

Can I drive abroad with an HGV licence?

You absolutely can. 

Despite changes to driving abroad since Brexit, the mutual recognition of Driver CPC qualifications has been maintained. Meaning that HGV driving across EU member states remains accessible.

You should be aware, however, that as well as having the right paperwork (see above) and visas (see below) you will need appropriate vehicle insurance to remain roadworthy. 

You may also need a ‘green card’ if you drive in any of the following countries: 

• Albania
• Belarus
• Moldova
• Ukraine

A green card verifies your insurance coverage, providing physical evidence of your insured state. 

*Did you know HGV Training Network is incredibly highly popular within the industry? With hundreds of highly-rated testimonials from past students. 

Do you need a visa to drive an HGV abroad?

You shouldn’t need a visa to drive in the EU as long as you don’t spend more than 90 days there within a 180-day period. 

However, countries across the world have different lifestyles, political landscapes, and work regulations, so it’s always worth checking the rules of the country you intend to visit before you leave – just to be safe. 

Do you need different HGV licenses for different countries?

Thankfully, you won’t need a different HGV licence for the countries you visit – your current licence should be sufficient. 

Just make sure you carry all of the relevant paperwork so that if stopped, you can demonstrate your qualifications without delay. 

What is the day-to-day reality of driving abroad? 

Now you’ve got your head around the legalities of driving in the EU, understanding what your day-to-day life will be like is also important – and helps to set your mind at ease. 

Our most commonly asked questions on HGV life are explored below. 

Are driver time regs the same in Scotland/Europe?

Despite leaving the EU, the UK still follows the same rules on drivers’ hours and tachographs. 

This includes UK drivers who are driving in the UK or UK drivers who are travelling to, from, or through an EU country. 

You will already be familiar with these rules – as you will already be following them – but refreshing your understanding of driver time regulations and tachograph use would be prudent to avoid prohibition from driving, fines, or points of your licence. 

Where do I sleep when working away?

Sleeping while away is perhaps one of the more complicated areas of HGV driving abroad and the rules in many European countries are currently in flux. 

For the most part, it is not advised to sleep in your cab as it doesn’t give you a proper break and can be unsafe – especially if you are sleeping at a lay-by or roadside. 

Plus, logistically, it can be hard to find somewhere that will not result in a fine if you stay too long. 

Your safest bet is to look for a motorway hotel or designated truck stop – sometimes called a travel plaza. There are plenty of apps or websites, like Truck Parking Europe, which can help you find somewhere safe to stay, even in countries as far afield as Georgia and Turkey. 

*Looking for an HGV training location near you? HGV Training Network has over 50 sites across the country so you won’t need to commute too far.  

What do I need to cross borders when travelling to Europe?

Unless stated otherwise by an individual country, all you will need to cross the country borders of Europe safely are the documents we’ve discussed above. 

However, to be extra sure of crossing legally, we do recommend checking the specifics of each country before you arrive so you can continue to work without issue. 

What laws do you need to follow to drive HGVs abroad?

Laws differ across the EU, despite the fact that most, if not all, European countries share driver time regulations. 

 This can include: 

• The laws of the country itself – which may be especially important for LGBTQ+ or disabled HGV drivers.
• Customs rules – based on the cargo you are carrying and how you declare these goods. 
• Driving-specific laws – including speed limits and giving priority to the right, restricted driving zones, or restrictions for driving HGVs on Sundays and public holidays. 
• Health and safety rules – which can include the use of country-specific identifier stickers and stocking emergency breakdown kits. 

To ensure you aren’t caught out, it is essential you spend some time looking over the rules that may affect you on your job and should be considered part of the planning process before you drive abroad. 

It isn’t safe or reasonable to assume that HGV driving will be the same on the continent as here in the UK simply because we share other legislation. 

Drive safely abroad with the HGV Training Network

Whether you are an old hand who has traversed Europe for years or a newly qualified HGV driver considering going further afield for the first time, there is plenty that you need to know. 

Some time spent checking the rules and regulations of the country you intend to travel to can mean that your journey is much more pleasant and ensure you can make your drop without a hitch. 

To book training or for help and advice, why not email us at contact@hgvtrainingnetwork.com or fill in our contact form? We have decades of experience among our HGV driver instructors and can point you to the help you need. 

If you’ve been an HGV driver for several years and recall your HGV training, you’ll be very aware of driver CPC training and how essential it is in becoming a professional driver.

However, recent developments have sparked conversations about the future of the driver CPC course and its place in driver training as a whole. Specifically, many are wondering whether the driver CPC will be scrapped altogether?

If you’re a current or prospective driver and are wondering whether these rumours are true, HGV Training Network has you covered. So, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the future of the driver CPC and whether it affects you.

Did You Know – With over 300 5-star reviews on Google, we’re one of the most well-respected HGV training providers in the country? 

What is the driver CPC?

The driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is a qualification all drivers of lorries, buses, and coaches in the UK must earn if they wish to drive these vehicles for a living. 

Beyond the standard driver training, the CPC driver certificate more closely relates to professional drivers being able to show they have the correct knowledge to drive safely and competently, as well as being aware of all safety standards relevant to their vehicle and the roads.

Do all drivers need to take a driver CPC training course?

While the driver Certificate of Professional Competence is a common qualification, it is not an essential need for all drivers, depending on how they drive and why they drive.

For example, those who are required to drive vehicles as part of their job in which driving does not make up the main aspect of the role don’t need a driver CPC. Nor do drivers who carry passengers in a non-commercial setting (e.g. occasionally driving people from A to B in a non-professional capacity).ur ambulance driver training.

Why are people talking about the driver CPC?

The potential scrapping of the driver CPC has been a hot topic in the haulage world for years now, with some driving professionals being unhappy they legally need to retake the driver CPC periodic training as part of their career maintenance every 5 years. 

However, in recent months, it has gradually been revealed that significant changes will be made to the driver CPC, suggesting it will be scrapped.

However, this is NOT the case.

Is the driver CPC being scrapped?

In short, no. The driver CPC is not being scrapped.

Instead, the government, along with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, is implementing slight changes to the ways drivers can retain their CPC status or return to driving with a CPC after spending some time away from the profession. 

So, the next time you need to renew, you may not be faced with the same CPC course you took last time.

Drivers CPC Legislation

The new driver CPC will be split into two distinct sections, allowing drivers to choose the method of training/renewal that best suits their driving needs:

• National Driver CPC (for those who plan to only drive in the UK)
• International Driver CPC (for those who plan to drive both at home and in the EU)

Each of these will come with its own parameters and steps that differ from how current driver CPC training or renewals work, which will be implemented in late 2024 subject to Parliamentary approval.

To find out more about the proposed steps and what you need to do, you can check out the official page on the Government website here.

Alternatively, if you’d like to speak to someone, you’re more than welcome to reach out to a member of the HGVTN team and we’ll do the best we can to give you the info you need. 

Explore driver CPC courses with HGV Training Network

If you are a professional driver seeking to renew your driver qualification card with periodic driver CPC training in line with the new rules once they’re implemented, HGVTN is here to help.

With vast experience in offering driving qualifications of all kinds and a team of reliable and knowledgeable drivers on hand, we’re always the best choice to help keep you on the road with industry-standard driver CPC training courses.

To find out more about our driver CPC training options, including completing driver CPC training online, speak to a member of the HGVTN team today.Fill out our contact form

If you’re an experienced HGV driver who completed your HGV training a while ago, you may be asking yourself whether it’s worth taking the next step in your career.

Where else is there to go beyond being an HGV driver, though? Well, the next logical move could be to become a transport manager.

To do that, you’ll need to earn your Transport Manager CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) by passing an exam – much like the CPC training you’ll have completed when earning your original HGV licence.

But what exactly is the Transport Manager CPC? Is earning the transport manager certificate more difficult than other qualifications, and what does the job entail?

Don’t worry, HGV Training Network is here to answer all these questions, so you can make an educated decision on your next big driving career move with confidence.

*Did You Know – HGV Training Network is home to 50 professional training centres scattered across the UK, so you can find somewhere close to you to complete your Transport Manager CPC!

What is a transport manager?

A road haulage transport manager is charged with many responsibilities relating to the smooth-running and safe operation of the vehicles in their care, as well as ensuring the drivers of said vehicles are fully qualified and fit to drive.

What does a transportation manager do?

While the intricacies involved in being a transport manager are wide-ranging, here is a quick breakdown that’ll make things easier to understand – but feel free to reach out to HGV Training Network if you’d like some more in-depth information.

Transport managers must:

• Ensure all vehicles in their fleet are roadworthy at all times, including organising servicing, MOTs, and retaining maintenance records.
• Confirm drivers hold the correct licence and insurance for the vehicles they’re driving.
• Make sure driving jobs are priced appropriately, for the benefit of both the company and the driver.
• Check that vehicles do not exceed weight limits based on the type of vehicle in question.
• Guarantee work is arranged and completed in a way that does not conflict with the rules surrounding driver hours.

In short, becoming a transport manager will lean on the knowledge you already have if you’re an experienced HGV driver, so you can use this knowledge and more to oversee your own fleet responsibly.al Competence (CPC qualification), which can be completed alongside your ambulance driver training.

What is the Transport Manager CPC and is it difficult?

Before we get to the specific details of the Transport Manager CPC, it is worth mentioning that it’s not the easiest exam in the world to pass – but don’t let that put you off!

If you have considerable experience driving professionally (which you likely do if you’re investigating this role) you’ll already have much of the knowledge you’ll need to pass certain elements of the test with flying colours.

The same can be said if you’ve ever been in an office-based position, within the organisational side of a company. If you have both? You’re a perfect candidate.

The Transport Manager CPC exam is split into two distinct sections – a multiple-choice test and a case study. The number of multiple-choice questions you need to answer correctly to pass differs between testing authorities (such as The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport), but generally, you’ll need to get 70% of questions right.

The case study, on the other hand, gives you a little more freedom. You’ll be allowed to read from your study notes during this part, giving you a solid advantage. 

It will present you with a real-life scenario you may encounter as a transport manager and you must use your revision, previous experience and intuition to explain what you would do in said scenario to handle the situation promptly and professionally.

Again, pass marks between testing authorities differ (speak to a member of the team on this for more information), but it seems to fall around the 50% region, giving you some leeway.

Testing may also differ depending on whether you’re studying to become a transport manager for road haulage or passenger transport (buses, coaches, etc.). So be sure you’re revising for the correct exam.

This may sound appealing, as both exam segments allow for quite a lot of lost marks. However, when you consider the average national pass rate of the Transport Manager CPC is less than 50%, it’s fair to say those looking to step up to the role have a lot of work to do and a lot of information to remember if they want to progress.twork, you can earn your C1 licence at one of over 50 state-of-the-art training centres across the UK? Call our team today on 0203 869 9001 to get the process started.

Transport manager hours

The hours you will work as a transport manager will be dependent on how many vehicles and drivers are under your supervision.

For example, managers in charge of a small fleet (15 vehicles) may only be required to work part-time hours somewhere in the region of 20 hours per week.

However, if you are in charge of a much larger fleet of 40 vehicles and above, it’s very likely you’ll be required to work a full-time schedule, though this can differ from company to company.

Is it worth switching careers from HGV driver to transport manager?

This depends entirely on you! If you enjoy the freedom and independence offered by driving on the open road as an HGV driver, and this is something you don’t want to lose, pivoting to become a transport manager may not be the right move.

Some transport managers still drive on occasion, but many of them are office-based and handle the ins and outs of their fleet from a single location – you may have become an HGV driver to avoid this kind of environment in the first place.

Having said that, if you don’t mind the added responsibility and enjoy the organisational side of things, including communicating effectively with drivers and using your experience to ensure all vehicles are fit for purpose, it could be worth making the switch!

Plus, if you’re moving from HGV driving to transport managing, depending on where you fall on the HGV hierarchy, you could be in line for a welcome pay rise, too. With the average transport manager salary in London falling around £42,000 at the time of writing, it’s an attractive career move for those seeking to earn some extra cash.e more shortly. your training, fill in our contact form or call us on 0800 254 5007. 

Explore Transport Manager CPC courses at HGV Training Network

If becoming a transport manager sounds like a step in the right direction for your personal goals, HGV Training Network is here to help.

Comprised of driving experts with a plethora of experience in all aspects of driving and haulage, we’re your number one choice to earn the qualifications you need to master roles such as these.

With HGVTN, you’ll be provided with all the learning materials you need, including physical reading materials and a practice online course, giving you the best chance of passing your transport manager CPC qualification the first time.

To find out more about the Transport Manager CPC, transport manager exams, or any other information on the training and services we offer, speak to a member of the HGVTN team today.  to finish.e our online contact form, and we’ll be in touch.

Fill out our contact form