Preparing for HGV Driving Lessons

If you are interested in a career driving large vehicles on the road, then obtaining an HGV licence is a must. To be able to drive a heavy goods vehicle you need to undergo HGV driver training and obtain a licence, which might seem daunting if you have never applied before. Therefore, this guide aims to show you the steps you will need to take to prepare for a successful HGV training session.

1. Apply for a provisional HGV licence

Obtaining a provisional HGV licence requires you to already have a full Category B car license and over the age of 18. Categories include:

• The C1 licence permits you to drive light goods trucks weighing up to 7.5 tonnes and trailers up to 750 kilograms.
• A Cat C licence allows you to drive bigger trucks such as, lorries, bin lorries, tipper trucks and large box trucks.
• Drivers with a C+E licence can drive an Articulated truck, over 3.5 tonnes with trailers over 750 kilograms.

Next, you will need to complete the D2 and D4 forms required by the DVLA. A D2 form is used to apply for your provisional licence, and the D4 form is used for your medical examination. A medical examination is necessary and can be completed by your doctor. Within three weeks of completing both documents, you should receive your provisional licence from the DVLA at no extra charge.

2. Prepare for HGV Driver Training

While you are waiting to receive your provisional HGV licence, it is a good idea to brush up on your knowledge, so you are ready for LGV training ahead of time. First, go through the Official Highway Code, which can be downloaded from the UK government’s website or as an app. Once you have read through that, read The Official DVSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles, which will provide you with all the information you need on operating heavy vehicles. Make sure to also refresh your knowledge of road signs in the UK government’s Know Your Traffic Signs guidebook, particularly in reference to large vehicles.

3. Prepare for the HGV Theory Test

The next step in the HGV driver training process is completing the HGV Theory Test at your local testing centre. The test is divided into two sections: multiple-choice questions and hazard perception.

4. Preparing for the Multiple-Choice Test

The multiple-choice section includes 100 questions with a two-hour time limit to complete. You must score 85% to pass. To prepare for this test, make sure to study the following topics in the previously listed guidebooks:

• Vehicle sizes, weights, and dimensions.
• Durations for driving periods and rest periods.
• When and how to brake.
• Responding to incidents, emergencies, and accidents.
• Identifying issues and defects.
• How to leave the vehicle safely.
• Loading and handling goods.
• Compensating for restricted views.
• Preparing correct documentation.
• How to handle other road users.
• Road signage and markings.
• Dealing with environmental concerns.

5. Preparing for the Hazard Perception Test

   This section includes 19 short video clips that depict potential and developing hazards as seen from a driver’s point of view. During each clip, you will need to identify the hazards and describe how you would respond to them. The Official DVSA Guide To Hazard Perception, available for purchase on DVD is a good way to practise. To pass this section you will need a score of 67%.

6. Prepare for the HGV Driving Test

Once you have completed the theory test, the next step is the practical driving test. This test normally runs between 4 and 5 days and will test your ability to handle HGV vehicles in a practical setting. Use the subsequent training time to develop your knowledge and skills. Once you are confident in your abilities as an HGV driver, you are ready to take your driving test to complete your HGV training.

NxtGen Driving School

To begin your journey towards obtaining an HGV driving licence, get in touch with us to book your training course.