What to Look for in an HGV Training School

Once you have decided that you want to acquire a HGV licence, the next step is to establish which school offers the best training, for you to not only pass your practical and theory tests, but also feel fully competent behind the wheel.

There are a variety of factors that need to be considered before choosing the training school, the price of the course, financial assistance packages, the distance you need to travel to receive tuition and the experience of the instructors are all important elements that need to be taken into consideration. Some schools will provide classes on how to pass the theory test. The better instructors will have had years of experience working as HGV drivers and should initially provide in class training on hazard awareness and health and safety before letting you into the cab.  Such instructors will also be able to identify areas which need to focus on and take you through their own experiences and offer advice on what to do in certain situations. In addition tacho card tutorials will also be provided.

Some training schools will also offer pass guarantees, which essentially allow you to take the practical test up to three times. In the majority of cases  qualified instructors will be able to tell you when you are ready to take the test. In addition, there are training schools that work alongside recruitment companies and will secure a job for you once you have passed your test. A certified training school will be registered with the Royal Haulage Association and the Driver Standards Agency. Also check to see if the instructors are Road Transport Industry Training Board qualified.

With many training schools offering competitive packages its always advisable to ask around, do some research on the internet and obtain recommendations from friends and family who you know have HGV licenses. HGV courses are not cheap and can start at £700 for the week, financial assistance packages loan the price of the course to you and allow you to pay back the amount over a period of months.  Many HGV training schools offer free information packs before you enrol, order them and compare before you make your final choice. Make sure that you check exactly what the course entails and judge whether the length of the course gives you sufficient time. Good driving schools will provide clear information about what you will be learning, how many hours you will be driving and the sort of vehicles you will be using. Course breakdowns should detail objectives including learning how your vehicle works, show you how to carry out controlled stops, proper gear changes, uphill and downhill starts as well as standard vehicle checks including if and when your vehicle breaks down.  More in depth courses will also include information on the carrying of dangerous and hazardous loads.

It is always better to try and find a school that is located close to you but if this isn't possible there are courses that include accommodation and meals in the final price and are worth considering if you are committed to getting a HGV licence.