Heavy Goods Vehicles Licence

Heavy Goods Vehicles or HGVs are among the more difficult vehicles to drive on the road. Most of these are loaded and used for carrying heavy cargo. This is one reason why a HGV driver needs to be well trained and specifically oriented to these types of vehicles in order to prevent any untoward happening. Many people who dream of a road lifestyle and becoming a truck driver fancy this job. The job cuts during recession have also given this job a fair eye in view of its long term benefits. But in order to become a HGV driver one has to undergo special HGV Driver Training.

A HGV or an LGV is the common term to refer to Heavy Goods or Large Goods vehicles in the UK. The requirements for the HGV driver Training are to be fulfilled mandatorily before the license is given. The HGV driver is required to posess a HGV license. These are available in two different categories namely C and C+E. The class C HGv vehicle represents any rigid vehicle with a weight of over 7.5 tonnes while the C+E represents any articulated vehicle of the same weight or above. It is necessary for a driver to have a C grade license before applying for the C+E category. To apply for these licenses one must also possess a standard UK driving license. These licenses are only provided to those who are above 21 years of age and are required to pass a thorough medical examination which includes an eye test.

The HGV driver training is basically split into a theory test and a practical. The theory involves a series of multiple choice questions that test the knowledge of the driver about the legal and practical aspects of being an HGV driver. There is also a hazard perception test, where a picture is shown and the reflexes of the driver’s perception are tested. There is a maximum mark limit of 75 given and a pass mark of 50 is necessary.

The practical of the HGV driver training involves the basic handling of Heavy vehicles along with the instructions regarding turning and reversing. The ability of the driver to drive the vehicle in a variety of situations is also tested. There is also the test of manoeuvring in a confined space along with a period of road driving that is allowed. These tests typically last for duration of 90 minutes post which the license is given and the driver can began work.

The necessity of a LGV licence has gained importance in the school curricula too. There are many high schools and colleges that provide for the HGV driver training of their students. Other than schools there are many institutions that offer training for an HGV licence separately. But the credibility and training of these programs has to be well looked into before being decided as an apt investment for money.

Even after the attainment of an HGV licence, an HGV driver has to undergo a stipulated period of time as an apprentice under a more experienced driver in the haulage company. This enables him to learn on the job and attain confidence before hitting the road.

About the Author:

Nerio Matos Ledesma is the author of this article on HGV Training. Find more information about HGV Driver Training here.