Truck experts at Smith Bros. reveal a short road to higher-than-average salaries for individuals considering a career switch to HGV driving this spring.
-- Experts at Cheshire-based truck dealership Smith Bros. suggest the route to high salaries may be shorter and less complex than anticipated for individuals considering a career in HGV driving.
As UK unemployment rates hold steady at 5.2%, new data shows that workers are exploring roles that offer a faster and more accessible route into work. HGV roles provide a pathway for those thinking about a career change this spring, with the average wage now sitting at £43,646.
Based on their analysis of live data, experts at Smith Bros. found that drivers taking on specialist roles in high-demand regions can earn over £70,000.
Will Pringle, sales director at Smith Bros., said, “The perception of HGV driving has shifted. We are seeing a new generation of drivers entering the cab because the barrier to entry is relatively low, but the financial rewards are now outstripping many traditional office-based roles. With youth unemployment rising, there’s a real disconnect between perception and opportunity. You don't need a three-year degree to hit a £50k+ salary; you just need the right licence and a bit of graft.”
“There are several types of HGV licences depending on the vehicle you want to drive. For example, Category C1 allows drivers to operate medium-sized goods vehicles, while Class 1 (CE+E) permits drivers to operate articulated lorries. Securing the correct licence is one of the key requirements for operating commercial vehicles professionally.”
The road to a higher salary
To qualify as an HGV driver in the UK, individuals must complete a 4-step process. All applicants must be aged over 18 and hold a full UK car driving licence (Category B). Drivers must also complete the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), which confirms they are professionally qualified to operate large goods vehicles. The CPC must be renewed every five years through 35 hours of training. The next step is to apply for a provisional HGV licence. Drivers must then submit a D2 licence application form and a D4 medical form to the DVLA. Provisional licences are typically issued within around three weeks.
The ‘brain’ work
UK HGV drivers take a multiple-choice exam, hazard perception test and CPC case study assessment based on real-life driving scenarios.
The ‘gear’ work
To advance, drivers must pass an off-road manoeuvre test, such as reversing into a bay, followed by a practical driving test assessing vehicle control, safety checks and on-road driving ability. Completing more specialised training and courses outside of the essentials can increase the chances of hitting the top salary mark.
Once these stages are complete, drivers receive their licences and CPC cards. When all tests are passed, drivers receive their full HGV licence and CPC qualification.
About Smith Bros.
Smith Bros. is an independent truck dealer based in Warrington, Cheshire. For over 50 years, the company has bought and sold pre-owned haulage and commercial vehicles. Smith Bros. specialises in truck sales, but also offers a wide range of additional services, including painting and wrapping, custom truck services, repairs and maintenance and truck hire.
Anyone who would like more information about Smith Bros. is encouraged to make use of the contact details below.
Contact Info:
Name: Tom Hemingway
Email: Send Email
Organization: Smith Bros.
Address: Embryo, 127 Portland Street, Manchester
Phone: 0161 327 2635
Website: https://www.smithbrosltd.co.uk/
Release ID: 89187490
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