How Much Training Do You Need to Be a Professional Van Driver?

There is expected to be an increase in the need for professional van drivers this year, with many companies and businesses adding the means of transport to their own fleet. If you’re looking to take up the profession, you will need to undergo some training to learn to handle the large vehicles beforehand.

 

Licences

To operate any vehicle that is over 7.5 tonnes, such as a HGV or LGV, you will need the appropriate licence. There are two classes of HGV/LGV licences, dependent upon the structure of the vehicle:

  • HGV/LGV Cat C+E (Class 1): Required for a vehicle over 7.5 tonnes that has a detachable or separate trailer. This vehicle is larger than a class 2 and is usually used for long haul travel. Cat C+E licences can only be applied for after the driver has obtained their Cat C licences.
  • HGV/LGV Cat C (Class 2): Required for a vehicle over 7.5 tonnes with a rigid body.

There are further Cat C1/ C1+E licences for smaller vehicles with and without detachable trailers that are between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes in weight.
Note: If you passed your driving licence before 1997 you will automatically have been granted a C1 licence, but if you acquired your licence later than this date then you will need to take the C1 test.

Training

As a minimum, all professional drivers must undergo 35 hours of CPC training to receive an initial Driver CPC qualification card. On top of this, additional training is recommended to prepare the driver for their tests, which sees candidates undergo a very strict examination.

A comprehensive training course will cover all the bases to give you the best possible chance of passing your test and receiving your licence. This will include:

  • Theory: classroom based learning to cover the principles of commercial driving such as driving hours regulations, safe cargo handling and hazard perception
  • Case Studies: As part of your examinations, you will be faced with a case studies test on your chosen vehicle in a number of scenarios you are likely to face in the working environment, accompanied by multiple choice questions
  • Driving skills: you will need practical instruction into how to handle your vehicle and a number of practice hours to hone skills such as stops, acceleration, handling corners and reversing
  • Practical skills: You will also need to learn other practical skills alongside your driving that will allow you to carry out your job safely, such as checking fluid levels and tyre pressure.

Euro 1 Training are a fully accredited centre for HGV and LGV training, operating from our facilities in Doncaster. Suitable for all levels and capabilities, our experienced tutors can help you get up to standard in your chosen driver assessment with tailor made courses that are flexible to fit around your other commitments. With our own private practice area and on site testing, you can gain all the skills you need without the added pressures of oncoming traffic. For more information on our courses, contact us here and we’ll be happy to discuss things further.