Going headfirst into HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) training is an enthralling move towards a promising profession. The transport and logistics field is quite extensive, and an HGV driver is an integral part of it. If you prefer working in a stable job or enjoy the idea of long drives, getting into HGV can grant you many opportunities.
However, always start with expectations. Embarking on your HGV training journey is not solely restricted to learning how to drive a huge truck. It requires a step back to comprehend the process, the time it will require, the dedication and the opportunities ahead. So, let’s view the entire evolution so that you can at once go into the beginning.
Key Terms to Understand: What is HGV Training?
HGV training is a specific set of courses that make sure a candidate understands how to operate large commercial vehicles in a precise and safe manner. Such vehicles are divided into categories, including rigid lorries and articulated trucks. These vehicles have various sizes, purposes, etc.
Training involves both theoretical and practical aspects that deal with comprehending how the vehicle operates. Get to know the rules of safe operations and what to do during challenging moments while driving.
Once training is completed, you will obtain an HGV licence that will ensure driving the vehicle is legal.
Why Is HGV Training Necessary?
Driving an HGV is not the same as driving a car or a van. These are large vehicles that require a higher skill level and greater responsibility. HGV training helps you to be able to:
– Gain confidence in dealing with the mass and size of the vehicle.
– Be able to drive through the roads and tight urban spaces.
– Abide by rules that ensure your safety, that of the cargo, and everyone on the road.
Apart from the practical aspects, HGV training can also lead to jobs in logistics, haulage, construction, or agriculture.
What Are The Documents That Are Needed?
There are certain criteria that the person should meet before they fill out an application:
1. Age Details: Most HGV licenses require applicants to be at least 18 years of age.
2. Driving License: The individual filling out the application is required to possess a valid driving licence in the UK for Category B.
3. Health Clearance: Applicants are required to fill out a D4 form with a registered doctor before they apply for HGV. Passing medical exams to ensure fitness is necessary.
4. Applying for an HGV Licence: After successfully completing the medical exams that ensure fitness, an HGV licence can be obtained.
This makes it possible for you to learn how to drive a large goods vehicle while being supervised.
What does the Training Entail?
HGV training is carried out in a series of phases that have an emphasis on important skills aspects that are essential in driving and operating of heavy goods vehicles:
1. Theory Test
Think of theory as an HGV driver licensing requirement that you will have to accomplish before getting a learner’s licence. This consists of:
– Multiple-choice questions: Questions that are intra-vehicle, driving and road rules.
– Hazard Perception Test: Determining the right answer to questions that are in the situational judgement tests.
2. Driver CPC Certification
The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a legal requirement for every HGV driver who is driving professionally. It provides assurance that HGV drivers are adequate and skillful around the public. Completion of the CPC module tests is a requirement which consists of both theoretical and hands-on examinations.
3. Practical HGV Training
Some of the practical HGV training that you will be undertaking includes:
– How do you use and drive an HGV in traffic and in bay settings?
– Traffic techniques using HGV in busy and less developed areas.
– Inspecting and servicing of the HGV.
– Loading and unloading the HGV in a safe manner.
4. Practical Driving Test
The last phase of practical training is the driving test that happens after the successful completion of the rest of the practical aspects.
You’ll have the opportunity to use your skill set and knowledge in a real environment. Clear it, and yes, you have your HGV licence!
Helpful Hints for Completing HGV Training
Starting HGV training can be quite disheartening. However, with adequate focus and preparation, the end goal is not far off. Here are a few hints that would help you in passing:
– Practice Before the Test: Allocate your time to learn about the Highway Code as well as regulations pertaining to big vehicles. For this, a variety of websites and mock exams are offered.
– Always Prepare Before the Revision: Make sure you are listening to your instructor while asking any questions, performing tasks and following the guidance. They have the only aim of support.
– Never Abandon Practice Sessions: To gain assurance in operating the vehicle, maximally use your monitored driving sessions.
– Healthy Lifestyle is the Key: Remember that driving an HGV is about being fit both mentally and physically. To achieve this, sleep well and drink surplus water while the training sessions are in progress.
Ending Statement
It is pretty clear that starting HGV training is more than just ‘I want to learn how to drive a big truck’ it has a lot more depth than that and can help you build a new career for yourself. Everything does require a lot of hard work and commitment. But the experiences, skills, and opportunities you work for are always worth it.