15 May 2023 | Wallace School of Transport
Why You Should Get a HGV Licence in 2023
If you love driving and are looking for a rewarding career that offers flexibility, variety, and security, you might want to consider getting a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) licence.
A HGV licence allows you to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes and carry goods across the UK and potentially across Europe.There are many benefits of becoming a HGV driver, such as:
1. There is a high demand for HGV drivers in the UK, in 2021 the Road Haulage Association (now known as Logistics UK) said 100,000 were drivers needed. And while this is thought to have eased a little during 2022, good and reliable drivers who get their HGV licence now, can find work in the logistics jobs market.
2. Job security. HGV drivers are essential for the economy and society, as they transport goods and services that people need every day. Even during the pandemic, HGV drivers were recognised as key workers and continued to work. As long as people need goods, they will need HGV drivers.
3. No need for A-Levels or a Degree. Unlike some other careers, you don’t need any formal qualifications to become a HGV driver. All you need is a full car licence, being fit to drive and obtain your provisional HGV to can start training, and then a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) card and you will be ready to start work.
4. The opportunity to travel. As a HGV driver, you can explore different parts of the UK and even other countries if you drive internationally. You can enjoy the scenery, meet new people, and experience different cultures. And depending on your job, you may also be able choose the routes and destinations that suit your preferences and lifestyle.
5. Excellent career progression − Logistics is an Expanding Industry. There are different types of HGV licences depending on the size and type of vehicle you want to drive. You can start with a category C1 licence for medium-sized lorries and then upgrade to a category LGV C (HGV 2) licence for large rigid lorries or a category C+E licence for large articulated lorries. OR, You could go straight from a Car licence to LGV C+E (HGV Class 1) You can also specialise in different sectors, such as refrigerated transport, hazardous goods such as fuel deliveries, or livestock transport.
6. The possibility of becoming self-employed. If you want more freedom and control over your work, you can become a self-employed HGV driver or an owner-operator. This means you can set your own rates, choose your own clients, and manage your own schedule. However, you will also have to deal with more responsibilities, such as taxes, insurance, and maintenance.
As you can see, getting a HGV licence can open up many opportunities and advantages for you. If you are interested in getting your HGV licence, you should look for a reputable, accredited training provider who can offer you professional instruction and guidance as well as the resources, like having their own Reversing Area that you can have unrestricted practice on, which will help you pass first time.
One of the best training providers in the UK is Wallace School of Transport. Wallace School of Transport has over 60 years of experience in delivering high-quality HGV training courses. They have qualified instructors, modern vehicles, and excellent facilities. They also offer flexible payment options and job placement assistance.
If you want to learn more about Wallace School of Transport and how they can help you get your HGV licence, visit their website www.wallaceschool.co.uk or contact them in office hours on 0208 453 3440.
I hope this information give you some insight as to why you should get a HGV licence in 2023.