How to become an HGV Class 1 Driver?

Becoming an HGV Class 1 driver, also known as a Category C+E driver, opens up a world of opportunities in the logistics and transportation industry. This licence allows you to drive the largest and heaviest vehicles on UK roads, including articulated lorries with trailers weighing over 750 kg. At GS Driver Training, voted Best HGV Training Company for seven consecutive years, we guide you through every step of this rewarding career path.

Understanding HGV Licence Categories

The HGV industry categorises licences based on vehicle type and size. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories:

• C1 Licence: For medium-sized vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg, with a trailer up to 750kg.
• C1+E Licence: An extension of the C1 licence, allowing you to drive C1 vehicles with a trailer over 750kg.
• Category C Licence (HGV Class 2): Permits you to drive vehicles over 3,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg. This is often a stepping stone to Class 1. Learn more about HGV Class 2 (Cat C) training.
• Category C+E Licence (HGV Class 1): The highest HGV licence, enabling you to drive Category C vehicles with a trailer over 750kg. This is what you need to become an HGV Class 1 driver. Explore our HGV Class 1 (Cat C+E) training.

Your Journey to Becoming an HGV Class 1 Driver in 2026

The process to obtain your HGV Class 1 licence involves several key stages:

1. Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old and hold a full UK car driving licence.
2. Medical Examination: A D4 medical examination is required to ensure you are fit to drive large vehicles. This typically costs between £50 and £120.
3. Provisional Entitlement: Apply to the DVLA for provisional Category C+E entitlement on your licence.
4. HGV Theory Tests: Once you have your provisional entitlement, you’ll need to pass three theory tests:
   • Part 1a (Multiple Choice): £26
   • Part 1b (Hazard Perception): £11
   • Part 2 (Case Studies): £23
   Prepare for success with our HGV theory test guide.
5. Practical Training: After passing your theory tests, you can begin practical training. While it\'s possible to go straight to Class 1, we highly recommend gaining experience with HGV Class 2 vehicles first.
6. Practical Driving Test (Part 3b): This is the main driving test for your C+E licence. The cost is £115 on weekdays or £141 for evening/weekend tests.
7. CPC Part 4 Practical Demonstration: This test assesses your ability to carry out daily vehicle checks and safety procedures. The cost is £55 on weekdays or £63 for evening/weekend tests.

Driver CPC: Maintaining Your Professional Qualification

The Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is a mandatory qualification for all professional HGV drivers in the UK. It ensures ongoing professionalism and safety within the industry.

• Initial Qualification: This is completed as part of your initial HGV training, covering essential topics like drivers\' hours, fuel efficiency, and safety.
• Periodic Training: After obtaining your initial CPC, you must complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years to remain qualified. This training costs between £150 and £200 per 7-hour session. Stay compliant with our Driver CPC periodic training.

HGV Driver Shortage and Salary Expectations in 2026

The UK continues to face an HGV driver shortage, though it has reduced from its peak of 100,000 in 2021 to approximately 50,000–60,000 in 2026. This ongoing demand means excellent job prospects for qualified drivers.

Salaries for HGV drivers in 2026 are competitive:

• Newly Qualified Class 2 Drivers: Typically earn between £28,000 and £35,000 per year.
• Experienced Class 1 Drivers: Can expect to earn between £40,000 and £55,000 annually.

Financing Your HGV Training

Investing in your HGV licence is an investment in your future. At GS Driver Training, we offer flexible finance options to help make your training affordable. Our HGV Class 2 courses start from £847 inc. VAT, and Class 1 courses start from £1,497 inc. VAT. Finance options are available from as little as £30 per month. Find out more about HGV training finance.

Career Opportunities for Class 1 Drivers

As a qualified HGV Class 1 driver, you\'ll have a diverse range of job opportunities across various sectors:

• Long-Distance Haulage: Transporting goods nationally and internationally for logistics companies.
• Freight Transport: Moving various types of freight, including dry goods, refrigerated items, and hazardous materials.
• Retail Deliveries: Delivering goods to stores and distribution centres.
• Fuel and Petroleum Transportation: Specialised roles transporting fuel products.
• Waste Management: Operating refuse collection vehicles.
• Construction and Heavy Equipment: Transporting machinery to construction sites.
• Specialised Transport: Handling oversized loads or delicate equipment.
• Tanker Transport: Specialising in liquids or gases.
• Port and Container Transport: Moving containers to and from shipping terminals.
• Self-Employed or Owner-Operator: The flexibility of running your own business.

Frequently Asked Questions About HGV Class 1 Training

Q: What is the difference between an HGV Class 1 and Class 2 licence?

A: An HGV Class 2 (Category C) licence allows you to drive rigid vehicles over 3,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg. An HGV Class 1 (Category C+E) licence is an upgrade that permits you to drive articulated vehicles with a trailer over 750kg, making it the highest HGV licence category. You can find more details on our HGV Class 2 and HGV Class 1 training pages.

Q: How long does it take to get an HGV Class 1 licence?

A: The entire process, from medical to passing your practical test, can typically take around 4-6 weeks, depending on your availability for training and test dates. This includes theory preparation, practical training, and the various tests.

Q: What are the main costs involved in getting an HGV Class 1 licence?

A: Key costs include the D4 medical (£50-£120), HGV theory tests (£26, £11, £23), practical training and test fees (HGV Class 1 from £1,497 inc. VAT at GS Driver Training, plus practical test fee of £115/£141), and CPC Part 4 practical demonstration (£55/£63). Don\'t forget to explore our finance options to spread the cost.

Q: What are the job prospects for HGV Class 1 drivers in 2026?

A: Job prospects are very strong due to the ongoing driver shortage (50,000-60,000 in 2026). Experienced Class 1 drivers can expect salaries between £40,000 and £55,000, with numerous opportunities in long-distance haulage, freight, retail, and specialised transport.

Q: Why choose GS Driver Training for my HGV Class 1 licence?

A: GS Driver Training has been voted Best HGV Training Company for seven consecutive years. We offer comprehensive training at Dunsfold Aerodrome, flexible finance options, and expert instructors to ensure you gain your licence efficiently and confidently. Read our reviews to see what our students say!

Ready to start your journey to becoming a professional HGV Class 1 driver? Contact us today to discuss your training options or browse all our training courses.