GS Driver Training branded DAF XF truck driving on UK motorway at sunset
★ Best HGV Training Company — 7 Consecutive Awards
Professional
HGV Driver
Training in Surrey

DVSA-recognised Class 1 & Class 2 HGV, LGV, CPC, PCV, C1 minibus and ambulance driver training from our award-winning school in Surrey and Hampshire. Male and female instructors available.

GS Driver Training HGV on UK motorway
Best HGV Training Company — 7 Consecutive Awards

HGV Training
Across the UK

DVSA-approved HGV and LGV driver training from the UK's most awarded school. Class 1, Class 2, CPC, and specialist courses. Nationally recognised qualifications, 98% first-time pass rate.

7
Consecutive industry awards
98%
First-time pass rate
1,000+
Drivers trained annually
DVSA
Approved training centre

The UK's Most Awarded HGV Training School

GS Driver Training has been delivering professional HGV and LGV driver training across the UK since 2005. Based in Surrey, our DVSA-approved school has earned seven consecutive industry awards — more than any other HGV training provider in the country. Whether you are starting your HGV career or upgrading your licence, we offer the full range of courses with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.

GS Driver Training instructor with student

Why drivers across the UK choose GS

The UK is facing a significant shortage of qualified HGV drivers. Demand for Class 1 and Class 2 drivers has never been higher, with average salaries for experienced HGV drivers exceeding £40,000 per year. Getting your HGV licence is one of the most reliable career investments available in the UK today.

GS Driver Training provides the fastest route to a nationally recognised HGV qualification. Our structured training programme, experienced instructors, and modern fleet of training vehicles consistently deliver one of the highest first-time pass rates in the country.

DVSA-approved training centre
Modern fleet including DAF, Mercedes, and Volvo vehicles
Male and female instructors available
Theory test support included
Flexible scheduling — weekday and weekend courses

HGV Training Courses Available Across the UK

From your first HGV licence to specialist qualifications — all courses are DVSA-approved and nationally recognised.

HGV Class 2 (Category C)

Entry-level HGV licence

The starting point for most HGV careers. Covers rigid vehicles up to 32 tonnes. Nationally recognised qualification.

5–7 days From £1,495

HGV Class 1 (Category C+E)

Full articulated lorry licence

The most sought-after HGV licence in the UK. Covers articulated and drawbar combinations. Opens doors to the highest-paid driving roles.

5–7 days From £1,695

Driver CPC Training

Mandatory periodic training

All professional HGV drivers in the UK must complete 35 hours of CPC periodic training every 5 years. Flexible scheduling available.

1–5 days From £195/day

C1 Minibus & Ambulance

Category C1 licence

For drivers of vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes. Ideal for ambulance, minibus, and specialist vehicle roles.

3–5 days From £995

Why Choose GS Driver Training for Your HGV Licence?

Award-winning school

Voted Best HGV Training Company seven years running. The only school in the UK to hold this distinction consecutively.

DVSA-approved

Fully accredited by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. Every test and qualification is nationally recognised across the UK.

Male and female instructors

One of the few UK schools to offer both male and female instructors. You choose who you train with — no compromise.

Nationally recognised

Based in Surrey, training drivers from across the UK. Qualifications are valid nationwide and recognised by all major UK haulage employers.

Transparent pricing

No hidden fees. All course prices include theory support, test fees, and use of our modern training vehicles.

98% first-time pass rate

Our structured training programme consistently delivers one of the highest pass rates of any HGV school in the UK.

The UK HGV Driver Shortage — and Your Opportunity

The UK logistics sector is short of an estimated 60,000–100,000 qualified HGV drivers. This shortage has driven HGV driver salaries to record highs, with many experienced Class 1 drivers earning over £45,000 per year and agency drivers commanding rates of £20–£25 per hour.

For anyone considering a career change or entering the workforce, an HGV licence is one of the most reliable routes to stable, well-paid employment in the UK. Demand is consistent across all regions and sectors — from supermarket distribution to construction, oil and gas, and specialist haulage.

60,000+
Driver shortage in UK
£45k+
Average Class 1 salary
£20–25/hr
Agency driver rates
All regions
Nationwide demand
HGV training vehicle on UK road

HGV Training Locations Across the UK

Based in Surrey, we train drivers from across the UK. Our location in the South East provides easy access from London, Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, and beyond.

Surrey & South East

GuildfordWokingFarnhamCamberleyAldershotFarnborough

Hampshire & Berkshire

FleetBasingstokeReadingAndoverWinchesterAlton

London & Home Counties

KingstonRichmondCroydonSloughStainesEpsom

HGV Training UK — Frequently Asked Questions

What is HGV training in the UK?
HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) training in the UK is the process of obtaining a Category C (Class 2) or Category C+E (Class 1) licence to drive large goods vehicles professionally. Training is delivered by DVSA-approved schools and includes theory, hazard perception, and practical driving tests.
How long does HGV training take in the UK?
Most HGV training courses in the UK take between 5 and 7 days for the practical element, plus preparation time for the theory and hazard perception tests. The full process from start to licence typically takes 4–8 weeks depending on test availability.
How much does HGV training cost in the UK?
HGV training in the UK typically costs between £1,200 and £2,500 for a full course including tests. At GS Driver Training, Class 2 courses start from £1,495 and Class 1 from £1,695, with no hidden fees.
Do I need a medical to get an HGV licence in the UK?
Yes. All HGV licence applicants in the UK must pass a DVLA Group 2 medical examination (D4 form) completed by a registered doctor. This checks eyesight, blood pressure, and general fitness to drive large vehicles.
Is GS Driver Training available to students from outside Surrey?
Yes. While we are based in Surrey, we train drivers from across the UK. Many students travel to us specifically because of our award-winning reputation and high pass rates. Accommodation recommendations are available on request.
What is the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 HGV?
Class 2 (Category C) covers rigid vehicles up to 32 tonnes. Class 1 (Category C+E) covers articulated lorries and drawbar combinations — the largest vehicles on UK roads. Class 1 requires a valid Class 2 licence first.
Can I get funding for HGV training in the UK?
Yes. Several funding routes are available including the DfT HGV skills bootcamp scheme, employer-funded training, and some local authority grants. Contact us to discuss which options may apply to your situation.

Start Your HGV Training Today

Join over 1,000 drivers trained every year by the UK's most awarded HGV school. Call us or view our courses to get started.