HGV / Lorry Driver
40,000+ chronic driver vacancies. Quick to qualify, immediately employable, strong earnings.
Why HGV / Lorry Driver is AI-Proof
While autonomous vehicles dominate headlines, the reality is that self-driving HGVs on complex UK roads are decades away. Narrow country lanes, urban deliveries, reversing into tight loading bays and dealing with unpredictable traffic require human judgement.
The UK driver shortage is chronic and worsening. Post-Brexit restrictions on EU drivers combined with an ageing workforce have created 40,000+ permanent vacancies. This shortage has driven wages up significantly.
HGV driving involves far more than steering — drivers manage loads, plan routes, handle paperwork, interact with warehouse staff and customers, and make safety decisions constantly. Many of these tasks require human adaptability.
Specialist driving (hazardous goods, abnormal loads, temperature-controlled transport) commands premium rates and requires human expertise that autonomous systems are even further from handling.
A Day in the Life
A distribution driver might start at 5am, deliver to multiple depots across the region, manage their hours under tachograph rules, and finish by early afternoon. Long-haul drivers can spend days on the road, often enjoying the independence and seeing the country.
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Take the career quizHow to Become a HGV / Lorry Driver in the UK
Cat C (Rigid) HGV Licence
Drive rigid lorries up to 32 tonnes. A 1-week intensive course including test. You need a full car licence first.
Cat C+E (Articulated) Licence
Drive articulated lorries. Opens up the highest-paying long-haul and distribution work.
Driver CPC
Certificate of Professional Competence — required for commercial driving. Initial qualification plus 35 hours of training every 5 years.
Online courses coming soon
We are building partnerships with leading online learning platforms to recommend specific courses for hgv / lorry driver. Many people start their career change with an introductory online course on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning.
Are you a training provider? Partner with us →Find In-Person HGV / Lorry Driver Courses Near You
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Search by postcodeFrequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an HGV licence?
Cat C can be done in 1 week. Cat C+E adds another 1–2 weeks. Total training time is 2–4 weeks. You can be working within a month of starting training.
What do HGV drivers earn in the UK?
Starting around £28,000 for local distribution. Long-haul and specialist drivers earn £38,000–£45,000+. Agency drivers and owner-operators can earn more.
Will self-driving trucks replace HGV drivers?
Not for decades in the UK. While motorway platooning is being tested, complex urban deliveries, country roads and warehouse operations require human drivers. The immediate shortage is too severe for this to be a near-term concern.