If you have ever tried to think about working as an HGV driver, you would have surely heard the term HGV licence. But what exactly does it entail? For many would-be drivers, comprehending the prerequisites, processes, and advantages of an HGV licence seems like an obstacle. Do not fret – we have a solution for you. Over here, we will deal with some of the more frequent questions about HGV licences. We will try to explain them in simple language so that you can get on your path to success.
1. What is an HGV licence, and why do you need one?
HGV is an acronym for Heavy Goods Vehicle and for one to be licensed to operate a vehicle above a set weight metric, an HGV licence is a must. These are normally the big lorries and trucks you see on the motorway ferrying goods from one location to the other.
To drive vehicles above a metric tonnage of 3.5, an HGV licence is absolutely necessary. Be it for transporting goods within a city or taking more cross nations. This licence is compulsory for all wishing to be employed in the transportation and the logistics sector.
2. What are the different types of HGV licences?
HGVs are divided into subtypes depending on the weight categories of the vehicles the individual would like to operate.
– Category C1: For vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes.
– Category C: It’s meant for drives of over 7.5 tonnes trucks, without a trailer that weighs more than 750 kilograms.
– Category C + E: It is for the largest, including the most powerful drives. Those with trailers weighing beyond 750 kilos.
The particular licence you have to apply for depends on the career you are targeting. For instance the delivery drivers are required to have at least a Category C1 licence, while Cross border/continental drivers tend to have all categories C + E.
3. What does it take to get the HGV Licence?
In order to be issued an HGV licence, you must fulfill the following requirements:
– Age: I’m afraid you’re going to have to wait until you’re 18 if you want a career in HGV, which is rather rough.
– Full UK Driving Licence: You require a category B driving licence in the UK if you want to acquire a HGV licence.
– Medical Fitness: You must meet criteria indicating you are medically able to operate a heavy machine in a suitable manner.
– Provisional Licence: Book an HGV Provisional Licence after undergoing a medical due to meeting the above criteria as a prerequisite.
– Driver CPC Certification: To be a CPC holder you must pass all the required theory and practical exams and ensure compliance with the standards set forth.
4. What is the CPC for drivers and what is it used for?
If you are working and driving HGVs, it is mandatory to have the Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence). It is aimed at reducing road incidents involving underequipped drivers of heavy automobiles.
In short the CPC has a four elements role:
1. A theoretical component.
2. A practical blocking element.
3. A case study writing component.
4. A final driving test.
During the entire driving time, you should have the CPC card with you.
5. How long does it take to obtain an HGV licence?
Acquiring an HGV licence is dependent on the pace at which you finish the processes. In broad terms, it takes this much time to obtain the licence:
– Medical Exam: A few days to a week, depending on appointment availability.
– Application for a Provisional Licence: It’s currently about three weeks for processing.
– Preparation for the Theory Test: This can take a week or two, depending on how much studying one does.
– Practical Gross Weight Training Module: An Average time frame would be from 1 to 2 weeks.
All things considered, which in total extends from six to twelve weeks, it varies depending on an individual’s time and schedule.
6. What is the cost of acquiring an HGV licence?
Since the expenses of acquiring an HGV licence tends to rise, the costs that follow should be prepared for:
– Examination Fee For Medical Considerations
– Provisional Licences
– The Theory Exam
– Training and the Exam
– Driver CPC Exams
But, many firms provide funded training programs as long as you are ready to work for the firm.
7. Is it necessary for me to renew my HGV licence?
Yes, HGV licenses have never been issued for life. Here’s the important bit about renewals:
– Standard Renewal: Usually, five-year intervals until one reaches 65 years.
– Past 65 years: That includes a medical fitness report, every year.
– Driver CPC: It is a requirement to provide 35 hours of CPC periodic training once every five years.
8. So, what should I do if I happen to misplace my HGV licence?
Firstly, you can go online to apply for a duplicate of your Lost HGV Licence on the DVLA portal. This is a hassle-free and quite an easy procedure as long as you possess your driving license number, national insurance number, and passport if available.
Conclusion
Although obtaining an HGV licence may appear to be a lengthy process, it is worthwhile in the long term. The most important thing you need is knowledge to appreciate the process and the end result will really be gratifying for most. If you are a fan of long drives, or the opportunities presented in the logistics industry are your thing, with an HGV licence everything is possible.