Category: blog
What is an artic lorry?
A common sight on the motorways of the UK and Europe, the articulated lorry is an essential logistics tool for transporting everything from luxury fashion to fruit and vegetables. But what exactly is an artic lorry and how do they differ from a standard HGV? The professional driving experts at HGV Training Network reveal all!…
Why do drivers need a PCV medical?
Along with your driving licence, a completed medical assessment is also a legal requirement to become a professional bus driver or HGV driver, or if you wish to drive any other people-carrying vehicle vocationally. Keep reading as the experts at HGV Training Network break down everything you need to know about the PCV medical examination….
Can you drive HGV with type 2 diabetes?
With independence, varied job opportunities and lucrative salaries, it’s no wonder so many are seeking out HGV training and CPC training to make a serious career shift! However, it’s well known that HGV drivers must pass an HGV medical to ensure they’re fit to drive professionally, without causing a safety concern to themselves or drivers…
What training must you take before driving a lorry loaded with toxic substances?
If ordinary HGV driving just isn’t dangerous enough for you or you want to spice up your daily routes, driving an ADR lorry or HGV could be the solution. But what do you need to do to have the qualifications to carry toxic or flammable goods? Let’s find out together! What is an ADR lorry? …
How to undergo HGV reversing training?
HGV training can be intimidating for many new beginners, as the vehicles they’ll be driving are much larger than the standard cars they’re used to. When you throw reversing HGVs into the equation, it can create a whole new level of concern… Most onlookers would never even dream of attempting such a difficult-looking manoeuvre. But…
How to become a CPC trainer
CPC training is an excellent way to brush up to speed with everything you need to know about pursuing a career in HGV driving. But how can you become a CPC instructor? Read on as we break down everything you need to know about being on the other end of CPC tuition. What is a…
How often should you take breaks while driving? Driving breaks explained!
Whether you are a professional driver or you are taking the family on a staycation, planning rest stops is an essential part of any journey. Yes, they extend your journey and may even cost you a treat at the services – but the alternative is far more dangerous. So, how often should you take breaks…
What to do if you have nobody to sign your provisional?
If you’ve been exploring HGV training as part of your next career shift, you’ll likely be aware that to drive HGVs legally, you’ll need to earn a HGV licence. But one thing you may not have considered is the need for a HGV provisional licence. Much like a regular provisional car licence, you’ll need a…
CPC renewal
As all professional drivers know, your CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is an industry-recognised accreditation, alongside your chosen licence, that is required to prove you are able to drive various vehicles safely and competently. Specifically, it is a legal requirement for all bus, coach and heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers. But it doesn’t last forever….
Can you still drive if you’ve lost your tachograph card?
A tachograph card measures the mileage, rest times and speed of a driver. They’re compulsory for professional drivers as they ensure EU and GB domestic regulation compliance, which is essential to keep drivers and the public safe. If you’re wondering whether you can drive without your tachograph card, we’re here to help! At HGV Training…
HGV blind spots
Blind spots are a common issue for anyone on the road – no matter what your drive. While it can differ depending on the make and model and your driving position, the most common blind spot on a car is the area behind the driver’s right shoulder. On HGV’s however, blind spots are a much…
What is the difference between PSV and PCV licence?
If you’ve been considering driving vehicles professionally and have been putting in some research, two terms you’re likely to have come across are ‘PSV licence’ and ‘PCV licence.’ With so many licences being thrown around these days, with seemingly every letter of the alphabet up for grabs, it can be difficult to know which specific…
How much do coach drivers earn?
A career in coach driving is a rewarding and sociable one, but how much do coach drivers tend to earn? Keep reading to learn more about the salary you can expect as a coach driver. How much do coach drivers earn monthly? In 2025, the average coach driver’s salary tends to hover at around £2,253…
How many CPC hours do you need?
Professional drivers of HGVs, buses, or coaches are, understandably, held to much higher standards on UK and EU roads. This ensures competency, maintains high standards, brings business benefits, and improves road safety for other road users and pedestrians who might find themselves walking past the largest vehicles on the roads. To achieve these aims, drivers…
Is HGV driving a good job?
HGV drivers play a significant role in keeping the country moving, ensuring goods of all kinds reach their intended destinations safely and on time. Considering its importance, and with thousands upon thousands of HGV drivers on the road every day, the question must be asked: is HGV driving actually a good job? Or is it…
How much do London bus drivers earn?
How much do London bus drivers earn monthly? London bus drivers are paid on a scale which typically averages at £15 per hour. Based on a 40-hour week, this amounts to around £2600 per month. The hourly rate for an experienced driver can vary, averaging at £18. Based on a 40-hour week, you’re looking at…
UK best truck stops: ranked and revealed
Whether you are just finishing your HGV training and imagining your upcoming jobs or are discussing the best places to stop with others on your ADR training course, knowing the best truck stops in the UK can be valuable! So, what are the UK’s best truck stops ranked? The experts at HGV Training Network reveal…
What trailer can I tow?
Wondering what trailer you’re allowed to tow with your car? You’re not alone; plenty of people wonder how to tow trailers safely, what the legal requirements are, and whether there are any specific towing laws they should be aware of. If you’re unsure, don’t just go hooking any old trailer to the back of your…
Digital vs Manual Tachograph Card
When beginning your HGV training, trying to understand the differences between manual and digital tachograph cards may seem confusing at first. Today digital cards are the norm, but manual cards may still pop up from time to time. Both cards allow drivers to record information, such as miles driven on a shift, but what’s the…
When do you need a CPC replacement card?
All qualified HGV drivers who’ve undertaken HGV training and earned their HGV licence will also be holders of a driver CPC card. But cards of all kinds are easy to lose – how many times has your debit card slid in between the cushions of your sofa? If you lose your CPC card and are…
How long should a HGV walkaround take?
Essential for keeping yourself and others you may encounter safe, an HGV walkaround gives you proactive peace of mind and ensures you to comply legally with DVSA regulations. As such, every HGV driver across the country should be doing them! So, to adequately prepare for your busy days, how long should a HGV walkaround take…
What is a HGV shunter driver?
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…
What size horsebox can I drive on a car licence?
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…
What is a HIAB driver?
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…
What is a PCV licence?
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…
How many CPC modules are there?
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…
HGV vehicle checks
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…
ADR refresher course
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…
HGV Training Abroad
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…
Is the driver CPC to be scrapped?
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….
How difficult is the Transport Manager CPC?
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…
How to become an ambulance driver
Switching to a career in the emergency services and dedicating your time to saving lives could be the rewarding role you’ve been craving. Plus, with shift work patterns and attractive financial incentives, ambulance driving could be the perfect profession for you. So, if you’re itching to find out more about how to become an ambulance…
How does HGV recovery work?
Specialist HGV recovery is essential for logistics, haulage and distribution corporations, as without it, operations may cease, causing a significant hit to revenue. Additionally, vehicles may have to be written off without recovery services, which aren’t cheap to replace, to say the least! Throughout this guide, we uncover everything you need to know about HGV…
What is the HGV safety permit?
Heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers often find working in the biggest cities problematic – because space is tight, it’s busy, and people are passing by walking or cycling all around you. This is especially true in London, the country’s capital – hence the need for the HGV safety permit. But what is an HGV safety…
Road dangers for HGVs in the UK
Much of your car driving lessons were concerned with spotting and handling the hazards and dangers of the UK roads – and by now you’ll probably be an old hand. But, for the largest vehicles on the roads – HGVs and LGVs – small hazards can become really big problems if they are not planned…
HGV show me tell me questions
If you’re looking to become an HGV driver, or you’re already into your HGV training and are thinking about what comes next, you’ve probably heard about the HGV show me tell me questions. It sounds a little intimidating, especially if you have absolutely no idea what they are, or how they’re involved in your HGV…
What is the HGV levy?
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…
How to pass the HGV eyesight test
Good eyesight is essential for any driver when driving a vehicle. But sadly, according to Optical Express, road accidents involving a driver with poor vision account for approximately 2,900 casualties annually. Given these stats, it’s no surprise that haulage companies and HGV trainers require drivers to be visually sound. This is where the HGV eye…
What is the best HGV route planner?
Route planning is really important in the logistics world and can boost productivity, reduce costs, and improve safety for drivers. Throughout this article, we discuss HGV route planning in detail and explore the best commercial truck route planners for drivers. What is HGV route planning? HGV route planning involves selecting the most optimal road course…
What is HGV tramping?
Within the HGV industry, there are several types of jobs and ways of working that differ from the standard 9-hour shifts where HGV drivers return home afterwards, referred to as trunking. This article focuses on one such way – HGV tramping. But what exactly does this working style entail and what are its benefits? Our…
How to check your HGV MOT status
Whether you’re in charge of a supermarket logistics chain or carry dangerous goods across the country for a living, you need to stay up to date with your vehicle’s MOT history. But why does an HGV require an MOT, and how do you check that it has a valid MOT pass certificate? This handy blog…
HGV speed limits
If you’ve been looking into becoming an HGV driver, or if you’ve noticed an abundance of HGVs on the roads around you (there’s plenty out there for a reason!) you may have asked yourself just how fast these large vehicles are allowed to go. The speeds HGVs are allowed to travel at may be affecting…
What you should know about HGV inspection manuals and testers manuals
HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) play a pivotal role in keeping the country moving, delivering thousands of goods the length and breadth of the UK every single day. But because these vehicles are so large, with so many different parts working tirelessly to keep the wheels turning despite the heavy load, regular inspections need to be…
How to become a HGV driver
Have you grown weary of all the office politics, or are you sick to death of your current work environment? Maybe you simply want to try something new? Whatever your reasons for looking into how to become a lorry driver, it’s safe to say HGV driving presents plenty of advantages and benefits over your previous…
What does the general election mean for HGV training and driving ?
With less than two weeks to go until polling day, coverage and conversations alike are full of the key policies of each of the political parties. While we ponder what our futures might look like under a new or continued Conservative government, those looking into HGV training to improve their career prospects might wonder what…
What is a class 2 driver?
If you’ve been looking into HGV driving as a career path, you may have come across several terms that you’re not familiar with when investigating HGV theory and practical training, causing some confusion. This is understandable, given just how many different vehicles, vehicle types, licence types and qualifications are out there for you to get…
What is the ADR test like?
Transporting dangerous goods across the country is the ideal HGV career for those wishing to push their driving skills to the limit and earn attractive salaries. But you’ll need a specific additional ADR qualification under your belt to enter this specialist field. To build on your HGV licence, you must earn your ADR Training Certificate…
HGV vs LGV Training: What’s the Difference?
Becoming an LGV or HGV driver can be such a rewarding experience. Truck drivers get to ditch the standard 9 to 5 for a job that takes them out on the open road, gives them their independence back, and lets them earn a very impressive wage, all at the same time. Not to mention becoming…
Are HGVs automatic?
One of the most common questions among those looking to enter the fulfilling world of HGV driving is whether HGVs are automatic or not. So, we thought it would be useful to explore this! Within this piece, our HGV training experts explain whether the HGVs you can expect to drive have automatic transmissions and how…
PAYE vs self-employed HGV driving
Nowadays it seems that you can earn a living in almost any way you can think of. From new career paths online to being self-employed, flexibility is the name of the game. But, if a vocation driving HGVs has captured your interest, you may well be wondering if it’s best to join a driving fleet…
Drivers CPC Check
If you’re looking into becoming a fully qualified HGV driver, or a driver of similar vehicles, you may have heard of driver CPC training – also known as driver Certificate of Professional Competence training. But while there’s plenty of information out there about HGV training courses and the steps involved in the process, you may…
Is there still an HGV driver shortage?
For the past few years, the headlines have been full of worrying reports of an HGV shortage – a shortage which was no doubt worsened by the COVID pandemic and working restrictions after Brexit. These factors also combined with the early retirement of current drivers and the ever increasing market for online shopping – meaning…
HGV Licence Renewal
If you’ve just become a fully qualified HGV driver, or if you’ve been driving HGVs (AKA LGVs) for some years now, you may be starting to wonder, “Do I need to renew my HGV licence?”. It’s an important question and one you should take seriously if you wish to continue enjoying a long and prosperous…
Can you drive an HGV on a bus licence?
If you currently drive buses and coaches but fancy a career change, you might well be considering if HGV driving is an option for you. Sure, they are both large, heavy vehicles – but thanks to the difference in cargo, you need a different licence altogether. Read on to find out everything you need to…
Funding for HGV driver training – your questions answered
If you’ve been considering a job switch in recent months, entering the world of HGV driving could be the career gear shift that you’ve been looking for. HGV drivers enjoy excellent wages, independence in their role, and the chance to explore areas they may never usually visit – amongst a host of other benefits. However,…
The HGV training process
The world of professional HGV driving is incredibly lucrative, with high salaries and plenty of job opportunities to choose from. But before you can get behind the wheel and become an HGV driver, you’ll need to complete both theory and practical HGV driver training with a trusted training provider. If you’re eager to fully understand…
All you need to know about your HGV training test
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…
An in-depth guide to the job of an HGV driver
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…
HGV driver salary explained
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….
What does the HGV licence change mean for you?
The rules surrounding getting an HGV licence and HGV training can be confusing at the best of times, even for those of you who are already HGV licence holders, and always raise questions: “What licence lets me drive what vehicle?” “Do I need to undertake any extra training to switch vehicles?” And so on.As we…
Insurance with an HGV licence
Insurance can be a tricky subject for people to understand as it is based on so many variables. Add in the extra confusion of having two different licences – a car and an HGV licence – and it gets even more complex. To make things clearer, here is everything you need to know about insurance…
How much does a PCV licence cost?
Considering training for a PCV (passenger carrying vehicle) licence and changing careers? Perfect for sociable professional drivers who want to drive to a variety of locations – from tourist destinations to airports – a PCV licence could be the key to getting you behind the wheel of your new life. Read on to find out…
Failed your HGV test three times? The most common reasons for failing your HGV test
Any sort of driving test can make you anxious – which can, unfortunately, increase your risk of failing your HGV test. But if you have failed an HGV test three times now, you might well be wondering what you can do to limit your chances of failing a fourth time. Read on to discover everything…
What to consider when you pass your HGV test
After you’ve finished celebrating earning your HGV licence, it’s time to start planning your next move as a newly qualified professional driver. But before you make any decisions, there are several considerations to think about after finishing your HGV training and gaining your licence. So, keep reading to find out what you should incorporate into…
What licence do you need to drive a minibus?
Considering there are so many different vehicle types and sizes on the roads, each with their own traits and necessary skills, it’s understandable that many of these vehicles require their own licence to operate legally. This is why it’s no surprise that many people who wish to drive a minibus – for personal reasons or…
Can I drive a 7.5-tonne lorry?
Eager to enter the gratifying HGV industry? If so, driving 7.5-tonne trucks is an excellent start and a superb career choice in itself. But why learn to drive one, and can you currently learn to operate this type of vehicle? Within this article, our specialists explain all you need to know about driving 7.5-tonne lorries…
How much does an HGV provisional license cost?
Starting HGV training is an exciting period in the life of any learner looking to take their future into their own hands and start a new career. There are a lot of things to think about before you can get behind the wheel of one of our learner vehicles, though – the most important of…
HGV theory test explained
As the first major step in your HGV training, passing the HGV theory test the first time will be an excellent confidence boost and save you time and money. But what is the HGV theory test and what does it involve? Read on to find out from the HGV driver training experts at HGVTN. What…
How to prepare for your LGV theory test
If you’re planning on becoming an LGV driver, you’ve already made a great decision that’ll set you on a new and exciting career path. But to become an LGV driver, you’ll need to pass all the relevant tests, so you can head out on the open road safe in the knowledge you’re a fully-qualified driver…
What HGV license do I need first?
If you are considering a career driving HGVs, you’ll need a different licence from the one you have to get out and about in your family car. But which will you need to get your HGV journey out of the depot and onto the road? Explore our handy guide which will give you all the…
How long does it take to train as an HGV driver?
Considering a change of career? Are you bored and uninspired by your current job and want to expand your horizons? Retraining as an HGV or LGV driver opens up an exciting new occupation, with plentiful job opportunities, a fantastic work-life balance, and a great starting salary. So, how long does it take to train as…
How to pass your HGV theory test
Passing your HGV theory test is the same as any other qualification – it requires dedication, the correct learning materials, and support from seasoned HGV training experts. Our experienced professionals have composed a handy blog filled with tips that will help you pass your HGV theory test and bring you one step closer to a…
Government funding for HGV training 2025: Is it still available?
Government funding for HGV training has allowed thousands of people to take HGV driver training and enter the logistics sector. Originally announced in 2021, the funding scheme offered free training courses to bring new HGV drivers into the industry, to make up for losses that came about as a result of the pandemic and Brexit,…
How HGV training programmes teach you about avoiding speeding fines
When driving a large goods vehicle, it’s important to take extra care on the roads. Not only are they bigger and heavier than other vehicles, but they can also be subject to more strict speed limits. If you’re caught speeding in a lorry or van, you could face hefty fines and potential licence disqualification. That’s…
Get your HGV licence with HGV training
For anyone looking to get into the haulage industry, earning their HGV licence is the first step. Specialist HGV training is designed to help people become qualified for HGV jobs in a much shorter time frame, putting them in the fast lane towards their dream careers. Let’s take a look at what this training offers…
How HGV training prepares you for your Class 1 test
Obtaining a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) licence is a great way to open up new opportunities in the transport industry. But you must have the right training before taking your Class 1 test. That’s why HGV training skills programmes are so important; they provide you with the knowledge and experience necessary to pass your exam…
Exploring the benefits of HGV training for drivers
Are you considering becoming a professional driver? If so, then you should give serious thought to receiving HGV training. The term “HGV” stands for Heavy Goods Vehicle, and it is used to describe vehicles that are used to transport large loads. Obtaining HGV training can be highly beneficial to both aspiring and experienced drivers alike….
The benefits of HGV training for large goods vehicle drivers
Being a large goods vehicle driver is no easy task. From the responsibility of driving a potentially hazardous vehicle to the long hours spent on the road, it’s not something that should be taken lightly. As such, high-quality HGV training is essential for anyone who wants to make sure they are well prepared for a…
Why HGV Training is Essential for All Drivers in the UK
Trucking has always been a significant part of the British economy. The number of HGV drivers in the UK is shrinking, and that’s not good news for the industry. You don’t have to work for a big trucking company to be an HGV driver — but you do need training and skills if you want…
7 Reasons Why Cat C HGV Training is Worth the Investment
Driving a Cat C HGV is an exciting and rewarding career. The industry is growing, and there are plenty of great reasons to get started today. Read on for 7 reasons why it’s worth the investment: You can usually find a job quickly The reality is that many employers are looking for drivers and have…
Getting help with HGV Training
Lorry driving is a rewarding career, but getting training for it might be above your budget. This is especially true if you’re looking to achieve an HGV licence. However, there are ways to fund your training if you have the motivation and determination to do so. HGV training may be costly, but that doesn’t mean…
The Top 6 Reasons Why You Should Consider HGV Training
If you’re looking to start a new career, then HGV driver training could be the perfect choice for you. There are plenty of benefits to becoming an HGV driver, including some excellent job prospects, and interesting work. In this article, we will explore why HGV training is such a viable option for anyone wanting to…
HGV Theory Test: What to Expect and Benefits of Taking the Test
Do you want to learn more about the Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) theory test? Fortunately, it’s not hard. The theory test is a computer-based multiple-choice test and can be taken in Welsh for no extra charge. You must pass both parts of the theory test before going on to take your practical HGV driving test….
HGV Training Network: The Best Way to Prepare for Your CPC Exam
The Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a qualification all HGV drivers must have in order to drive professionally. If you hold an HGV licence, you will already have completed the theory and practical tests required to obtain your CPC. The theory side of the CPC tests your knowledge of driving rules, passenger safety and…
Choosing the Right HGV Training Company
If you’re looking to become a professional truck driver, then it’s important to hire the right training company. The HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) industry is growing rapidly, with many new jobs opening up every year, but that doesn’t mean that any training company can provide good training for you. Here are some tips for choosing…
How long does a HGV test take?
Many employers now can’t get their goods from A to B as quickly as they would like, due to a driver shortage in the UK. This can impact customer satisfaction and retention, as well as your bottom line.However, this brings with it increased career possibilities for those considering a career in HGV driving. Not only…
5 Ways to Get HGV Training Covered by Your Employer
If you’re keen to get a HGV licence, it can be tempting to think it will be a costly endeavour. But even if you have no idea how much your employer might cover, there are plenty of ways they could make up the difference – or even pay for your training in full. 1. Employee…
HGV training centre: finding the right one for you
The UK has a number of HGV training centres but finding a good one can be challenging. You need to consider many factors before enrolling in an institution that trains HGV drivers. These include reputation, quality of learning environment and materials used by the trainers. Look for a reputable HGV training centre. There are a…
The Many Benefits of HGV Training
HGV training is a necessity for anyone wanting to work in the transportation industry. This training can be paid for by employers, which means that you don’t have to worry about the costs of getting started. HGV drivers also improve their career opportunities by taking this course because it allows them to operate heavy vehicles…
How to Find the Best HGV Training Course
HGV training is a significant investment, but it’s also one that can yield some very valuable rewards. If you have your eyes set on an HGV licence, you might wonder which company offers the best value for money. Luckily, you can find helpful information about this topic in plenty of places. In this post, we…