The time it takes to gain your HGV (or LGV) licence depends on how quickly you complete each stage — but on average, most drivers can qualify in 6 to 12 weeks from start to finish.

Yes — there are plenty of opportunities for new HGV drivers.

While some companies prefer experienced drivers, the UK logistics industry continues to face a driver shortage, meaning many employers are actively recruiting newly qualified drivers and offering in-house training or mentorship to help them gain experience.

Once you gain 6–12 months of driving experience, even more opportunities open up — including long-haul, specialist transport, and international work.

✅ Yes — you can!

Since the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) changed the rules in November 2021, drivers can now go straight from a car licence (Category B) to the Category C+E licence (the full articulated lorry licence) without first passing Category C.

This is often called “direct access” or “fast track” to C+E.

If you’re completing your package with JLD, we’ll provide all the necessary forms on the day of your medical and assist you with completing them. If you’re not booking through us, the forms are available to download from the official government website, and your local post office may also have printed copies.

JLD provides driver medicals with Dr. Chambers at our Banbury site on the first Saturday of every month. Alternatively, you can arrange your medical through your own GP, if this service is available at your surgery.

If the doctor determines that you don’t meet the medical standards required to drive a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV/HGV) or Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV), they will report this to the DVLA. The DVLA will then refuse or revoke your entitlement for those vehicle categories.

You won’t be able to legally drive or train for your HGV/PCV licence until the issue is resolved and the DVLA approves your medical fitness.

Unfortunately, no. You’ll need to wait until your licence has been returned and your provisional entitlement has been added before you can book your theory tests.

You’ll take your HGV theory tests at an official DVSA Theory Test Centre — the same type of centre used for car and motorcycle theory tests.

There are hundreds of centres across the UK, so you can usually find one close to home.

You can book both parts of your HGV theory test online through the official government website:
👉 www.gov.uk/book-theory-test

When booking, make sure to choose the correct test type for your licence category — for example:

• LGV Multiple Choice (Module 1a)

• LGV Hazard Perception (Module 1b)

• And, if you’re going for full Driver CPC: Module 2 (Case Studies)

Preparing properly for your HGV theory tests makes a huge difference — not just for passing, but for becoming a confident, safe professional driver.

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) produces the official study materials, which include everything you’ll be tested on.
You can revise using:

• The DVSA Theory Test Kit app (for LGV drivers)

• The DVSA Guide to Driving Goods Vehicles book

• Online practice tests available through GOV.UK and approved training providers like us, JLD!

At JLD, we provide revision materials and advice as part of our training packages. Our team can guide you on the best apps, books, and study plans to help you pass first time.

No — you don’t have to retake all of them.

The HGV theory test is made up of two separate parts:

1. Multiple Choice Test

2. Hazard Perception Test

You must pass both to get your theory test certificate, but you can take (and retake) them separately.

Yes, you can. The CPC theory test (Module 2) can be taken at the same time as your Multiple Choice and Hazard Perception tests if you wish, or you can choose to complete it separately.

All HGV training is booked in 4-hour slots.
For the 3a (off-road) element, sessions are scheduled either in morning or afternoon 4-hour slots, or as a full 8-hour day.

For the 3b (on-road) training, hours are completed over consecutive days. For example, 18 hours of training may be completed as four half days with the test on the fifth day, or as two full days with the test on the third day.

Don’t worry — if you don’t pass your test the first time, you can rebook and take it again.
Our instructors will review your results, provide targeted feedback, and arrange additional training to help you feel confident for your next attempt.

We also offer a Pass Protection option, which covers the cost of one or two (depending on the protection booked) retests, giving you extra peace of mind during your training journey.

Pass Protection is an optional add-on that gives you extra peace of mind during your training. If you don’t pass your test the first time, Pass Protection covers the cost of one free retest, saving you money and reducing the stress of rebooking.

It’s a great option for anyone who wants added confidence while working toward their HGV licence.

You need a Driver CPC if you're driving a bus, coach, or HGV professionally and the vehicle is:

• Over 3.5 tonnes, or

• Has 9 or more passenger seats.

Who Is Exempt?
You don’t need a Driver CPC if you're driving a vehicle that is:

• For personal use (non-commercial);

• Undergoing testing or maintenance (by a qualified mechanic);

• Being used for driving lessons (by an instructor);

• Carrying tools or equipment for your own work (as long as driving isn’t the main part of your job);

• Limited to 45 km/h (e.g., farm tractors);

• Used by armed forces, emergency services, or during emergencies.

What About Operators?
Transport operators (not drivers) also need CPC certification, but through separate training for managing transport operations.

Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is a qualification you need to drive lorries, buses, or coaches professionally in the UK and EU.

It aims to improve road safety and maintain high driving standards.