Our Commonly Asked Questions

Considering HGV/PCV Training? Our Commonly Asked Questions

RSM deal with hundreds of enquiries every week from enthusiastic trainees, here are some of the most frequently asked questions they have about joining the ever growing transport industry and how they go about it

Is HGV and PCV driving a good career?

If you’re a person who enjoys driving we couldn’t think of a better career option for you. The transport industry is one that is constantly growing, with more and more businesses needing goods delivered in even shorter time periods than ever before.

According the FTA,  64% of transport and storage businesses now face severe skills shortages with the figure of driver shortages growing to 59000 across the UK as of October 2019.

More recently, because of the skill shortage many companies will take on newly qualified drivers

Is HGV and PCV driving hard?

Driving comes natural to some who have maybe been around vehicles or working within transport a while however that’s not to say that those who don’t have a background within the industry will find driving a commercial vehicles harder. RSM have seen all sorts of people from different backgrounds and abilities come and achieve their licences through us and there’s not many of our students who haven’t stuck with a driving career once qualified.

What’s the difference between HGV Class 1 and Class 2?

LGV Category C, or ‘HGV Class 2’ as its most commonly known is the licence which entitles someone to drive any Rigid over 3,500kg (with a trailer up to 750kg MAM).

LGV Category C+E, or ‘HGV Class 1’ as its most commonly known is the licence which entitles you to drive any rigid vehicle WITH a trailer over 750kg

More information regarding licence categories can be found at https://www.gov.uk/driving-licence-categories

What’s the pay like as driver?

 On average in the UK a driver can earn between £26,000 and £32,000 annually, this will be dependant on what licence they hold (e.g. Class 2 or Class 1) and the driving experience they have to date. Every company is different a pay will always be dependant on hours, potential overtime, specific duties etc.

Why not take a look for yourself and Google available vacancies in your area?

What do I need to be able to start HGV or PCV driving?

To be able to start the process of obtaining a HGV or PCV driving licence you must hold a full car driving licence and be over the age of 18.

You will need to have a medical with a doctor to complete part of the application to the DVSA for your provisional Category C or D entitlement to be added to your licence and then sit and pass the theory multiple choice and hazard perception tests before taking your training course and practical driving test.

RSM offer a ‘Starter Pack’ which includes a medical at our onsite fortnightly clinic, provisional licence application forms, online theory revision guides and the theory and hazard tests? Everything you need to get you started!

How long is the process to obtain my licence?

 From initial enquiry to qualified driver we anticipate the process to take roughly 6-8 weeks. This time is dependant on how quickly your provisional licence is returned by the DSA and whether you pass your theory tests first time.

RSM are with you every step of the way…check out our Introduction Video or speak with one of our friendly advisors today find out how we can help you.

For more information, or to arrange your training contact us today!

Call us on: 01268 695 909

Email: enquiries@rsmdrivertraining.com

Alternatively, please use the Contact Us page to submit your details and we will contact you.