HGV/LGV Driver Training Courses: What to Expect

In this article we’ll be leading you through what you can expect from a HGV/LGV driver training course to help you prepare for the course, to see if you need to undertake the course for prospective jobs, and our top tips for success with your course. Euro 1 Training are experts when it comes to HGV/LGV driver training courses, so if you’re currently in the dark then you’re in the right place to find about these courses!LGV-Training-Class-C

The Tests You’ll Have to Take

As with learning to drive a car, there are two sections to testing: theory and practical. These are in turn split into two parts, but first we’ll briefly cover what you can expect from the theory side.

The multiple choice test will see you have to answer 100 questions that will test your knowledge of the highway code, similar to the standard car test but with additional question relative to HGVs/LGVs .

Then you will undertake the hazard perception test. In this test you will be shown 19 videos with 20 potential hazards each in them. Candidates answer 100 questions based on information they can find in these videos.

The practical component of your test will get you back behind the wheel in a two part test conducted at the same time. Firstly you will be required to drive the vehicle with a DVSA instructor in the cabin with you to demonstrate your driving skills, including braking and cornering among other things.

Finally you will also be assessed in a practical demonstration of your knowledge and capabilities when it comes to using the HGV/LGV as part of your practical assessment at the same time as the driving skills test. This will include testing your knowledge of health and safety compliance and things like cargo securement and vehicle safety checks.

The Top Tips

  • Research: It is absolutely essential that you find out as much as you can about your test centre and instructors before committing to a course with them. For instance, you need to ensure that they are fully certified and that course leaders are fully trained and experienced. If in doubt, look for the DVSA name.
  • Practice: Though some people can whizz through the course and come out shining, others take more time to learn. Don’t be afraid to hold off a little so that you can fully learn the ropes of driving a HGV/LGV at your own pace, even if you need to pass quickly for a job. Safety always comes first.
  • Be confident and stay calm: We can’t stress enough how valuable remaining calm and confident while behind the wheel is when it comes to driving a HGV/LGV. Panic and worry will get you nowhere fast, and your instructor will try to encourage you to keep confident and calm while driving.

After Your Test

Following your test you will be fully qualified to drive LGVs and HGVs and ready to start your career in the field. Often employers will want experienced drivers as opposed to freshly passed, but don’t be disheartened; the key is to plug away at applications and eventually a role will come up. There is always more demand for drivers, so sooner or later you will strike gold. If you are flexible on your available work hours, you’ll also be more likely to land a job quickly.

In a HGV/LGV driving career you can expect to start on an average of between £18k and £22k, rising with experience to between £23k and £28k. If your job requires you to drive specialist materials such as fuel, this may go as high as £35k.

 

Euro 1 Training offer high quality LGV and HGV training courses given by fully trained and experienced course leaders. We work on a flexible basis to fit around your current commitments, even offering weekend or intensive courses, and our private practice area makes handling tricky manoeuvres much more stress free!

To make things even easier, Euro 1 Training are now a DVSA Test Centre, so on top of taking your course here, you can pass your test as well. Our tests are conducted around the local area. Whether you’re after an intensive one week training course or hourly lessons, you can rely on Euro 1 Training. Get in contact today for more information on any of our services – we’ll be happy to help in any way we can.