As adventurous as it sounds, being an HGV Driver is quite challenging. For becoming an HGV Driver, a person should not only be physically fit but also mentally fit.Just like any job meeting, there are a number of elements to study and training. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for it! But again, anything meriting is also worth acting for. HGV drivers are still in high demand, and newly qualified drivers are starting to be thin on the ground. Being an HGV driver is worthwhile if you’re someone who likes driving for long and handling all the duties themselves. Although there are some rules, regulations one needs to obey and fulfill some requirements before getting into an HGV driving job.
It’s quite clear that for any kind of driving you need a license, so therefore a relevant government-approved license is a must, and then the right training. There are many driving schools and institutes that offer both practical and theoretical HGV Driver training. Last but not least, you’ll get a schedule about working hours as displayed in your respective job. Here we’ll explain everything about How much does HGV Training cost, How long does it take to become an authorized HGV Driver and How much do HGV Drivers earn- both freshers as well as experienced. Without any further delay, we here bring you an entire guide on how to be an HGV driver.
How Long Does Training Take?
The amount of practical training that you need will vary depending on your experience and how quickly you learn, but typically people need 20-30 hours of instruction to get to the test standard. This will normally take place over a 5-day period but it isn’t mandatory. The duration can vary between training providers and your availability.
Your local training company will be able to give you advice and some may offer a short observation drive to estimate how many hours you’ll need.So, in a nutshell, the duration of training depends upon on your experience and your ability to grab the driving knowledge at the earliest.
Should we start directly with a test?
You can start your practical training as soon as you have your provisional licence, but before you can take your practical test, you’ll need to have passed your theory test. Your driver training company can help you in booking your theoretical test.
It’s worth doing some revision before taking your theory test – there are various books and apps available for this. Besides, you can practice mock tests online so that you will be confident enough before giving the test.Make sure you get the latest version so the information you get is up-to-date. If you want to be sure, go for ones that are certified as “official” and have been published within the last couple of years, as these materials can be updated quite regularly.
Are you suitable for the HGV Driving Jobs?
The surefire thing one should certainly determine before enrolling any duty is to be certain that you are competent to be there. As mentioned above HGV driving seems very tempting because of good income and several other perks but it may not be apt for some of the intellects. You should remember that HGV driving is a very challenging job that requires the driver to be mentally and physically fit.The first rule is to be willing to endure because this job bears a lot of time on the road, driving heavy stuff, and strength. A person must be physically in good condition, able-bodied.
The payroll of HGV Drivers:
It’s all about the skills and expertise one earns in a job. The income of an HGV driver depends on the proficiency of any individual. At starting, HGV Drivers can expect to earn a start pack of $19,000 per year. Nevertheless, once you are a little experienced you can get a package of $35,000 to $36,000 per year. After years of experience, you can start your own HGV driving school where you will train the new students in the industry.
Eligibilities to be an HGV Driver:
You need to be fully qualified to drive any HGV. One should be 18 or above 18 before you can drive an HGV. A complete driver’s permit is required necessarily and to get an authorized one requires to pass for the Driver CPC practice. Driver CPC training equips for managing HGVs with safety. It generally consists of four different tests, and it is necessary to clear all of them to acquire a license.
Divided into four parts, respectively, here are the following steps needed to be taken– theory testing, case study inquiry, driving ability, and practical demonstration. The cost for the CPC training can differ from section to section.
HGV Medical:
Each driver must pass a medical exam as part of their training program. This is to be sure you do not have existing medical conditions that prevent you from driving a vehicle safely. You will undertake a brief medical exam and a short conversation with a doctor. Any doctor can conduct this test and they will need to complete your DVLA form. We can also book you in as a priority and offer medicals at a great reduction. HGV medical tests can cost up to £130.
Step 1: Theory Testing
The theory testing in HGV Training can cost up to $37- $26 for multiple-choice questions and $11 for threat perception. The first part of training provides MCQs i.e, multiple-choice questions along with quiz tests on threat/hazard perceptions. In threat perceptions training you are given some specific situation presented in virtual form and one has to decide what a driver should do in that specific situation. The passing score is 85 out of 100. Passing this test requires a lot of practice on the part of the student. As mentioned earlier, students can do online mock tests to become confident enough of giving the theory test.
Step 2: Case Study Testing
Case study testing will give you up to seven scenarios that you need to read through and analyze. This HGV training in case study examination costs up to $23. They offer a set of 7 questions per case study and a minimum score of 80% is required to clear the test. This test stays valid for two years from the given date. It is important to pass this level before attempting module 4.
Step 3: Driving Ability
The most crucial test, this test requires you to take the vehicle on road as in a practical exam. You will be interrogated about the exercises, safety measures to take on as well as off-road. This is one of the most expensive tests of all. The driving ability test in HGV Training can cost around $141. You’ll also need to demonstrate that you know how to safely drive an HGV and that you know how to handle hazards on the road. You will also be given the chance to perform off-road tasks to show your ability.You will be asked about how to behave and tackle the difficult situations that HGV drivers often face.
Step 4: Practical Demonstration
Last but not least, you’ll need to illustrate that you understand the working of vehicle and fuel, how to make the most of it, how to load and unload the material with proper safety. This final module can cost up to $63. And once you’ve successfully passed all tests step by step, you’ll receive a DQC or Driver Qualification Card.
The Final Practical Skills Test
The two parts of the practical skills test are as follows:
- Driving Expertise– Applicants will be examined on their expertise to securely manage huge industrial transports. The inspector gets the operator out on the road to examine his or her abilities in traffic, accompanied by another session on a locked area where the driver exhibits skills such as shifting and parking. The complete procedure demands approximately 90 minutes.
- Practical Explanation– The second part of the inspection is the final test in the procedure. Applicants are examined on five subjects selected from the syllabus. These subjects comprise loading vehicles carefully, managing inspections, preventing unauthorized immigrant trafficking, and evaluating emergency positions. Applicants can secure up to 20 points for each subject; a passing mark is 80 out of 100.
Bottom Line:
HGV classes can be complex it is necessary to understand the information above to earn the HGV class 1 or 2 license for your job. Apply for the right job description according to your skills and commitment.
At GS Drivers, Now that you know everything you need to about the HGV test, we want to devise you with one ultimate decision: the HGVT Training Centre will equip you to clear the prime time. You could state that is our first preference. Our main priority is on coaching the candidates in such a way that you are able to qualify and progress with your work as soon as possible.
To conclude, HGV driver jobs are abundant and can help someone or anyone to get their key in a worthwhile profession.
Also read this blog: Safety Tips while Driving a Convertible Car