A Guide for Newly Qualified HGV Drivers

You’ve got your HGV licence, congratulations! A career as a HGV driver comes with plenty of perks like independence and the chance to discover places you might never have seen otherwise. Every day is different, and the open road is your new office.

So, what’s next? You’ve put in the hard work to get your licence, but now the real journey begins, from finding that first job and gaining confidence behind the wheel to getting into the swingof life as a HGV driver.

The good news? There’s a huge demand for HGV drivers, which means plenty of job opportunities. The not-so-good news? Lots of companies prefer experienced drivers, and breaking into the industry can take a little patience. 

But don’t stress! There are plenty of ways to get your first job, build confidence, and start your successful career on the road.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from where to find your first job to essential skills, training, and salary expectations.

1. What to do when you don’t have experience

2. Where can newly qualified HGV drivers find work?

3. Key skills for success

4. Training and CPC requirements

5. Overcoming challenges

6. Salary expectations and career progression

7. Our final tips

What to do when you don’t have experience

We’ve all been there. You’re eager to start the job hunt and see what’s out there, but then you hit a wall. Every job listing says “minimum 2 years experience required.”

It’s easy to see why most employers prefer drivers with some experience under their belt. There’s less risk of accidents, and they trust someone with a few years on the road to take on the challenges that come with the job. 

But it’s a frustrating catch-22: you can’t get a job without experience, but you can’t get experience without a job, either! Don’t worry. 

It’s not impossible to get a HGV job as a newly qualified driver, you just need to keep these tips in mind:

Cover the basics 

Most employers will want to see your documents and qualifications before they hire you, especially if you don't have much experience. Make sure you have a full, clean UK driving licence, your Driver CPC, and your digital tachograph card sorted before you start your job search.

Tailor your CV

If you don’t have formal HGV driving experience yet, you really have to make your CV stand out. The more you can tailor your CV to match the position you’re applying for, the better. 

Even if you haven’t driven a lorry before, apply anyway. Include any prior driving experience you do have, even if it’s with smaller vehicles, and highlight the relevant skills and qualities you’ll bring to the job, like time management, communication, and attention to detail. Sometimes a bit of related experience and a lot of skill add up to the perfect candidate for the job!

Focus on entry-level positions 

Previous experience may still be expected on these job listings, but employers tend to be a little more flexible about how much they actually require, so they’re a great way to get your foot in the door. Positions like these may include driving smaller vehicles (like a 7.5t truck) or working as a driver’s mate or delivery assistant.

Working alongside experienced drivers in these roles lets you learn the ropes in a lower-pressure environment. Plus, you’ll build trust with your employer, which could lead to future job opportunities.

Work with an agency

Agencies are a great way to get started as a HGV driver. They can find you temporary or part-time roles so you can build up your confidence on the road, make new contacts, and get the experience you’ll need to land a permanent position.

Stay persistent and be flexible

Getting your first HGV driving job can be tough. It’ll take a lot of patience, determination, and a willingness to start small and work your way up. 

Being flexible with your availability can increase your chances of getting hired. A lot of employers need drivers to work irregular hours, so your flexibility sets you apart as a more attractive candidate.

Apply for multiple positions and try not to get discouraged if you don’t land an interview right away. Persistence pays off, and each application brings you one step closer to landing the right opportunity.

Where can newly qualified HGV drivers find work?

One of the biggest concerns for newly qualified drivers is finding a company willing to hire them without years of experience. But there are plenty of industries that are open to giving new drivers a chance, you just need to know where to look!

Industries that hire newly qualified HGV drivers

Haulage and logistics: As the backbone of the transport industry, haulage keeps goods moving across the country. And with the ongoing driver shortage to deal with, many logistics companies, like DLG Logistics, are willing to hire newly qualified drivers and offer trainee driver programs to get you up to speed.

Supermarkets and retail: Supermarkets and retail chains need drivers to keep shelves stocked. These jobs are great for consistent work, structured shifts, and often offer shorter routes that help build confidence. Aldi and Tesco are regularly on the lookout for more HGV drivers to join them.

Construction companies and building suppliers: From driving tipper trucks or cement mixers to delivering building materials, if you like more hands-on work alongside driving, this could be the perfect fit for you.

Courier and delivery services: Some delivery companies and freight services (like First Call Contract Services) hire HGV drivers for larger loads and long-haul routes, and they may be more flexible about experience.

If you don’t have a preference on what sector you start driving in, you can go the traditional job hunt route. Check out online job boards like Indeed, driving recruitment agencies, and company websites to see who’s hiring drivers. When in doubt, you can always network with other drivers. You never know when a fellow driver might help you find the perfect opportunity.

Tip: It’s also worth stopping by local driving companies and having a chat with the transport manager in person if possible. A face-to-face conversation can help you make a strong impression and show your eagerness, setting you apart from other candidates.

Key skills for success

Being a HGV driver is about more than just getting behind the wheel. You’ll need a mixture of practical and soft skills to really thrive in the role. The more you can develop and strengthen these skills, the more you’ll stand out from the crowd as the obvious choice for companies to hire.

• Route planning: Knowing your routes and planning the best way to get to your destination on time.

• Safety awareness: Understanding and following safety measures to keep you and others safe on the road.

• Time management: Managing time effectively to stick to tight schedules and meet deadlines.

• Customer service and communication: Interacting with customers, dispatchers, and other drivers in a professional and friendly manner.

• Paperwork and compliance: Handling necessary paperwork and staying up-to-date with transport regulations to ensure legal compliance.

Training and CPC requirements

You might think that once you’ve qualified and gotten your licence, you’re all set. However, as a HGV driver, you’ll need ongoing training to keep you and others safe on the road and stay qualified to drive professionally.

UK driving laws are set to change in 2025 (check out our blog post for full details), bringing a slight change to the Driver CPC. The qualification previously known as Driver CPC is now called the International Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, though the only difference is its name.

Your International Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a legal requirement, and you have to carry it with you whenever you’re driving professionally. To keep it updated, you’ll need to complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years.

If you plan to drive only within the UK, you’ll need the National Driver CPC. To maintain this, you have to complete 35 hours of National Driver CPC training every 5 years or a mix of National and International Driver CPC training within the same period.

Driving professionally without a valid CPC is illegal and can result in a fine of up to £1,000, so it’s important to keep it up to date and always have it with you.

Ongoing training and additional certifications

Regular training and refresher courses can keep you sharp, improve your skills, and keep you up to speed with the latest industry regulations.

HIAB: HIAB training lets you operate a lorry-mounted crane, so you’ll be able to load and unload goods in a variety of environments. If you’re aiming for a role in construction or recycling, it’s a must. Once you're qualified, your HIAB certificate lasts 5 years, but you’ll need a refresher course before it expires.

ADR training: If you’re hauling dangerous goods, you’ll need an ADR certificate as it’s a legal requirement. This training makes sure you know how to transport hazardous materials safely and by the book.

Overcoming challenges

When you’re starting your career as a HGV driver, you might hit a few bumps in the road, but don’t stress. You’re not the first, and you won’t be the last, to deal with them! Whether it’s building confidence behind the wheel, handling long hours on the road, or juggling your work-life balance, these challenges are manageable with the right approach.

Let’s take a look at what you might face and how to tackle it all.

Building confidence

Feeling nervous behind the wheel as a new driver is completely understandable. But remember, you’ve got your qualifications, and you know what you’re doing. 

Here are some tips to ease those jitters:

Know your vehicle inside and out 

Before hitting the road, make sure you're aware of your vehicle’s size. There are plenty of roads in the UK with restrictions, like low bridges, narrow lanes, weight limits, and commercial vehicle rules to keep an eye on. Also, having a basic understanding of your vehicle’s mechanics, like checking oil, tyres, and water levels, should be a part of your routine before you head out.

Plan your journey 

The more familiar you are with your route before you start your journey, the safer and more efficient your trip will be. But traffic can be unpredictable. It’s always smart to have backup routes ready and be familiar with the UK’s motorway network. Over time, you’ll get to know traffic hotspots and speed limits, helping you stay on track and make adjustments as needed. However, it’s important to note that some clients will need you to follow a specific route and this must be adhered to.

Drive defensively

Staying alert on the road is key. Anticipate potential hazards and avoid dangerous situations before they happen. By predicting what other drivers might do and spotting risks early, you can take the right steps to stay safe and prevent incidents.

Stay calm

Taking a breath and keeping your cool on the road helps you handle any hazards or tough driving conditions. You’ve got this!

Managing long hours

Take breaks: Taking regular breaks is not only important for your overall wellbeing, it’s also the law. You’re limited to a total of 9 hours of driving a day with a mandatory 45-minute break after every 4.5 hours of driving. Plan your stops in advance and stick to them. Use your breaks to rest, stretch your legs, chat with other drivers, or grab a snack.

Prioritise sleep: Make sure to get enough sleep before a long trip, as around 20% of UK road accidents are caused by driver fatigue. Establishing a proper sleep routine will help you stay alert, sharp, and safe.

Work-life balance

Long hours on the road can be tough and isolating, but it’s important to make time for yourself and your loved ones. Here are a couple of ways you can find balance.

Stay connected: It couldn’t be easier nowadays to keep in touch with family and friends. With a quick phone call or text, a video chat, or instant messaging, you can keep those connections strong no matter how far you’re driving. This little bit of social time can help you feel more grounded and less isolated during long hauls. 

Just remember, safety comes first. Never use your phone while driving. Pull over safely if you need to make a call or reply to a message.

Use your downtime: Make the most of your time off the clock by doing what you love. Whether it’s catching up on a new show, reading a book, or getting some exercise, it’s important to unwind and recharge between hauls. Taking time for yourself helps you stay refreshed for the next stretch on the road.

Salary expectations and career progression

When you're starting out as a new HGV driver, it's helpful to know the average salary range you’ll find in the industry so you can plan accordingly.

Here’s what you can expect to earn and how your pay might grow as you gain experience:

Class 1 (C+E)    Beginner: £30,000 – £35,000

Class 1 (C+E)    Experienced (usually a minimum of 2 years): £35,000 – £50,000

Class 2 (C) Beginner: £25,000 – £30,000

Class 2 (C) Experienced: £30,000 – £42,000

Pay range can vary a lot depending on where you're working in the UK and the industry you're in. For example, those handling hazardous materials or transporting fuel can earn a starting salary of £40,000, working up to £65,000 over time.

As you gain experience behind the wheel, you’ll open up more opportunities for higher-paying roles and specialised driving jobs. Plus, with each year on the road, you’ll build your skills and confidence, making it easier to take on more challenging positions.

Our final tips

You’ve got a long road as a professional driver ahead of you. Remember these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a fulfilling and exciting career.

• Stay patient as you work toward landing your first job. It’s worth the wait! 

• Connect with other drivers and don’t hesitate to ask for advice. 

• Always prioritise safety and professionalism and keep learning. 

With dedication and the right mindset, your HGV career will take off, and before you know it, you'll be speeding toward success! 

Looking for your first HGV driving job? We can help. 

Check out our job listings to find your perfect role today!