🚚 How to Get a HGV Licence in the UK: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

🚚 How to Get a HGV Licence in the UK: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

✅ Step 1: Check You’re EligibleTo apply for an HGV licence, you must:

  • Be 18 or over
  • Hold a full car driving licence (Category B)

🚛 What Type of HGV Licence Should I Get?

The type you need depends on vehicle size and what you’ll be transporting:

  • Class 1 (C+E): Over 7.5 tonnes with a detachable trailer. Ideal for long-haul driving. (Recommended by myself!!! Why? Because simply holding your Class 1 licence for 6 months to 2 years can open up many more job opportunities quicker — mainly for insurance reasons. And of course, having Class 1 experience is a huge advantage!)
  • Class 2 (Category C): Over 7.5 tonnes with a rigid base. Common in urban areas (e.g. bin lorries, fire engines).
  • Category C1: For vehicles between 3.5–7.5 tonnes. Automatically included if you passed your test before 1997.
  • Category D: For passenger-carrying vehicles like buses or coaches.

📝 Step 2: Apply for Your Provisional HGV Licence

Get These Forms:

  • D2 – Provisional licence application
  • D4 – Medical form (must be filled by a GP or private provider)

>>> You can order the forms from the DVLA or pick them up via a driver training centre.

⚕️ Medical Requirements

You’ll need a medical check to:

>>> After qualification, you’ll need a medical every year from age 65.

📬 Send the Forms

Post the completed D2 and D4 forms to the DVLA.

🕒 How long does it take?

Roughly 3 weeks, but longer if your health or personal details need checking.

🧠 Step 3: Complete the Driver CPC

To drive professionally, you need the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC)

The CPC has 4 Parts:

🧩 Part 1: Theory Test

📝Multiple Choice Costs: £26

  • 100 questions
  • 1 hr 55 min
  • Pass mark: 85/100

⚠️ Hazard Perception Costs: £11

  • 19 videos (20 hazards)
  • 1 video has 2 hazards
  • Pass mark: 67/100

>>> Pass both to get your theory certificate (valid for 2 years). Book CPC part 1 test: theory here

📚 Part 2: Case Studies Costs: £23 (Required if driving professionally.)

  • 7 case studies with 6–8 questions each
  • Test time: 1 hr 15 min
  • Pass mark: 40/50

>>> Your pass letter includes a reference for Part 4 and is valid for 2 years. Book CPC part 2 test: case studies

🚘 Part 3: Driving Ability
Takes 1.5 hours and includes:

✅ Vehicle Safety Questions

  • ‘Show me, tell me’ checks (e.g. instruments, body condition)

🛣️ Road Driving Costs: £115-141

  • Use of mirrors, signals, speed control, hazard response
  • Includes 10 mins independent driving

🔄 Off-Road Exercises Costs: £40

  • Includes an S-shaped reverse into a bay (Sometimes booked on a separate day)

>>> Pass if: You make 15 or fewer minor faults and no dangerous faults

🛠️ Part 4: Practical Demonstration Costs: £55-63
Also for professional driversTests your knowledge on:

  • Load the vehicle safely and keep it secure
  • Stop trafficking in illegal immigrants
  • Assess emergency situations
  • Reduce physical risks to yourself or others
  • Do a walkaround vehicle safety check
  • 5 sections, 20 points each

>>> Pass mark: 15/20 per section + 80/100 overall. CPC syllabus

😬 What If I Fail a CPC Test?

  • You can rebook any part
  • You’ll need to wait 3 working days before retaking

🎉 What Happens When I Pass?
You’ll receive your:

  • Driver Qualification Card (DQC) – carry it when driving professionally

>>> If caught driving without it: ÂŁ50 fineNote: If you only pass parts 1 and 3, your licence will be marked with code 101 (non-commercial use only).

📅 How Long Is an HGV Licence Valid?

  • 5 years (renew by completing 35 hours of periodic training)
  • After age 65, renew annually💷How Much Does It Cost? Check costs here
  • Part 1 – Theory (Multiple Choice) ÂŁ26
  • Part 1 – Theory (Hazard Perception) ÂŁ11
  • Part 2 – Case Studies ÂŁ23
  • Part 3a – Off-Road Exercises ÂŁ40
  • Part 3b – On-Road Driving ÂŁ115–£141
  • Part 4 – Practical Demonstration ÂŁ55–£63

Estimated Total ÂŁ270 to 4500* (On average ÂŁ3500)

>>> *Add medical and training costs depending on your provider. Class 1 (Cat C+E) will cost the most.

🎓 How to Get an HGV Licence for Free

You might not have to pay for your licence if:

  • A company sponsors you due to the driver shortage (you may need to stay with them for 2+ years)
  • You do a large goods vehicle apprenticeship (typically 12–13 months)
  • You take a bus/coach driver training programme

>>> Check GOV.UK for current opportunities.

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