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If you’re considering becoming an HGV driver, you may also be interested to know about the differences in requirements between standard cars and HGVs (and specific types of HGVs) before you begin HGV training.
You’ll already be aware that you’ll need an HGV licence, as opposed to a standard licence, if you want to drive an HGV. But there are also other differences you need to consider. Specifically, differences in payments that must be made.
The HGV levy (also known as the HGV road user levy) is one such example. But what is the HGV levy? Why is it in place? And is it something you’ll need to pay when you start driving?
Looking for the answers to these questions? Don’t worry, the team at HGV Training Network is here to help.
Did you know: HGVTN is home to over 50 official HGV training centres scattered across the UK? Click here to find out more!
The HGV levy: A quick breakdown
In a nutshell, the HGV levy applies to HGVs with a vehicle weight of 12,000kg (12 tonnes) or more that are entering from outside the UK and planning to drive on UK roads.
Think of it as an extra tax on HGV vehicles entering the country. To contribute towards the economy, as well as covering costs associated with carbon emissions, HGVs of this type are required to pay the HGV levy before entering the UK. UK-registered vehicles do not need to pay the levy costs, though, as these are paid automatically along with the vehicle excise duty.
If the HGV levy is not paid before these vehicles enter the country, they are not permitted to drive on UK main roads. The main road network refers to motorways and similar major roads, beginning with the letters ‘M’ and ‘A’, such as the M6 or the A52, as well as toll roads. Virtually all roads leading from UK ports are main roads meaning that, in the majority of instances, the levy must be paid in advance.
However, should an HGV weighing more than 12,000kg only drive on minor roads, or remain parked over a 24-hour period, they do not need to pay the levy.
Also, if the driver stays in the UK for longer than expected and the levy expires, they’ll need to pay for any additional days the HGV remains on UK main roads, too.
Who has to pay the HGV levy?
It is the responsibility of the HGV driver to ensure their vehicle has the correct levy before entering the UK. However, they’re not the only people who can pay for it.
Along with the driver, the HGV levy can also be paid by the operator or booking agent. But whoever it pays, the priority is that it must be paid before entering the country.
Want to know more about paying the HGV levy? Our helpful team is only a message away! Reach out today.
HGV levy payment
The HGV levy can be paid in blocks of day, week, month, or year, depending on the specific levy duration or how long the vehicle will be in the country.
To pay the HGV levy, those entering the UK can do so beforehand using the government’s official HGV levy service.
This can be used to complete a one-time payment or to set up an account if HGVs will be travelling to and from the UK frequently in the future.
Alternatively, those seeking to pay the levy can call +44 33 0101 3725 to pay over the phone by card.omplex – your medical professional will explain it in more detail during your examination.
HGV levy rates
The rate of levy someone will pay will differ based on several factors, including:
- How long the HGV will be in the UK
- The HGV weight
- The vehicle air quality emissions standard (often the Euro emissions class)
The weight of the HGV is an important talking point, as there can be misconceptions as to how much should be paid.
In short, the levy that must be paid is in relation to the maximum permitted weight of the vehicle, not the precise weight of the vehicle.
For example, if the maximum permitted weight of the HGV is 30,000kg, but the actual weight of the vehicle only comes to 25,000kg, the levy rate must be paid based on the first figure.
More specific information regarding precise levy rates for different vehicle weights, types of vehicles, and classes of vehicles can be found on the official GOV.UK page here.
Begin your HGV training journey today with HGV Training Network
Now that you’re armed with plenty of knowledge on the HGV levy, you’re well-equipped to deal with such scenarios should they arise in the future, once you’re a fully-qualified HGV driver!
At HGV Training Network, we’ll teach you all the skills and knowledge you need to become a competent, reliable and professional HGV driver, opening yourself up to a whole new realm of employment opportunities and peace of mind on the road.
To find out more about earning your HGV licence and CPC training, speak to a HGVTN representative today.
