What You'll Learn in Your HGV Training

There are many advantages of a career in HGV driving including flexibility and a good salary. With many choosing to add the HGV licence to their curriculum what can you expect to learn during your HGV training?

The availability of HGV training courses has rapidly increased in recent years. With some centers offering from four week to 5 day courses with the examination being on the fifth day. 

Before enrolling on a training course you will be required to have a provisional HGV licence with a valid medical certificate.  To acquire a provisional licence you will need to pass a theory test specifically designed for HGV driving and including hazard perception questions specific to this profession. Some training centers offer a guide to passing the theory test inclusive of the practical training sessions in addition to financing programs. Refresher training courses are  also available for drivers who already hold a HGV but may not have driven for some time.

Ensure that the centre has experienced instructors who will guide you through what you need to know and be sure to check the pass rate. Some of the better organizations offer guaranteed pass protection. The best training centres will be associated with the Royal Haulage Association and the Driver Standards Agency.

There are a variety of course available including, C and E Category training as well as LGV Rigid and Articulated courses. The first day typically features a classroom based introduction to HGV driving. The second day will get you behind the wheel with your instructor, with in cab instruction, where you will initially be required to practice your driving skills in a training centre before going out onto public roads. You will then be assessed to establish how long it will take you to pass the course. Participants are judged on their skill and comprehension of driving and loading HGV vehicles taking into account health and safety procedures. Day two, three and four usually consist of the developing road driving skills in coordination with your instructor, practicing reversing procedures,  coupling and uncoupling of a trailer, controlled stops, gear changes, uphill and downhill starts as well as standard vehicle checks including if and when your vehicle breaks down. When being assessed you are either given a pass or fail. As well as being tested on your driving skills be prepared to explain what you would do in certain situations and explain functions of specific parts of the vehicle. Passing categories include, driving safely to a high standard, showing expert handling and maneuverability and that you have a sound understanding of the highway code.

Training is carried out in line with the official Driving Standards Agency syllabus and examiners are officials from the DSA office.  After you have acquired your licence there are additional courses that you can attend including HGV inspection standards and procedures, advanced driver daily checks and a HGV air brakes course. Other courses promote the reducing motoring costs by improving driving techniques.

Unlike other vehicles driving a HGV comes with added responsibility, taking into account  the weight and particular load you might be carrying HGV training is provides essential preparation and pointers from those who have had many years on the road.