4 Good Reasons To Choose The HGV Driver Career

HGV drivers are one of the key elements of the UK’s supply chain. They help move freight around the country, thus being of utmost importance to our nation’s economy.

The UK has to face a major shortage of HGV drivers. While this is bad news for people who need to buy stuff, it’s actually a good thing for those seeking a job as a driver. There are lots of HGV driver job openings right now. They offer nice pay and a wealth of extra benefits such as becoming your own boss and the freedom of travelling across the country.

If you’re currently considering a career as a driver, keep reading to see what are the best reasons why you’d want to become an HGV driver.

Great Salaries

Most of us seek the best-paid jobs that match our skills and our experience. A job as an HGV driver won’t disappoint you, as the typical beginner’s salary may start at £20k. Furthermore, the acute driver shortage has led to a higher demand for such professionals, and therefore to salaries increase. Depending on your experience, you may earn a salary anywhere between £30k and £40k. Of course, different companies grant their HGV drivers different salaries. Nevertheless, you should take into account that many of these employers are willing to offer bonuses and various other incentives, as well.

More Security

Well-trained HGV drivers don’t have to worry they won’t find work, given the current driver shortage. This means you won’t need to worry about your job security. Covid-19 has shown us how volatile everything around us can be. Under these circumstances, a job you can rely on can save you from a lot of trouble.

More Freedom

If you aren’t a fan of the 9-5 work schedule, becoming an HGV driver might be the ideal job for you. Most of us have families to take care of, chores and various responsibilities to juggle, as well as various hobbies that require free time. By choosing an HGV driver career, you’ll be able to choose your own work hours. Besides, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the country and meet interesting people.

Relatively Low Entry Barrier

Getting your full HGV driver certification is easier and less expensive than you might imagine. While there’s no need for a degree, you’d still need to pass a series of tests before being allowed to drive this type of vehicle. To start with, you must be at least 18 years old and have your category B driving licence. These two conditions being met, you must complete a medical and apply to get your provisional lorry drivers licence. The last steps are the theory test and the practical test. Once you pass all of them, you’ll get your Driver Certificate of Professional Competence qualification. To see more information about HGV training see ‘HGV class 1 training‘.

Even though this may seem quite a complex endeavour, the whole process takes a maximum of 10 weeks. As soon as you gain your qualification, you’re ready to work as an HGV driver. The cost of this training isn’t too high, taking into consideration that you’ll be able to earn a very nice salary right off the bat. As many employers want to encourage new drivers to apply, you may even benefit from extra incentives, so you may even be able to gain your HGV driver’s licence for free.