If you’re considering a future career in Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) driving, the practical test is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. You might remember your car driving test, with all of the trepidation that came with that. Whether your car driving test is in the recent or distant past, the good thing is that it gives you a foundation of testing experience that you can use in your HGV practical tests. Although the testing process for professional HGV drivers is more extensive, there are elements that you will recognise. Plus, we’re here to demystify the process with experienced insights into the test’s structure and helpful tips for success.
Test breakdown
The HGV driving qualification, like the standard car test, is broken down into theory and practical elements. You’ll need to have passed the theory based parts of the test before embarking on the practical ones. Here’s a summary of the different tests that your qualification will comprise:
Part 1. Theory – This is made up of a multiple choice section and a hazard perception section. Your pass certificate will be valid for 2 years.
Part 2. Case studies – Based on real world scenarios, these questions test practical understanding. With your pass again valid for 2 years, you’ll need to complete the practical parts of the HGV driving test within this time.
Part 3a. Off road exercises – This test lasts around 30 minutes and assesses your manoeuvres. You must have passed part 2 before you can take this test.
Part 3b. On road driving – You must have passed part 3a before taking this test. It will entail some safety questions and around an hour of driving.
Part 4. Practical demonstration – This is the most intensive test and covers 5 areas of the CPC syllabus. You’ll need to show understanding of the vehicle as well as practical skill.
Practical test: what to expect
The HGV practical test is designed to ensure that drivers are fully equipped to handle large vehicles safely on the road. While the theory based parts test your knowledge of road rules and safety regulations, the practical test is where you demonstrate your driving skills.
The practical test is divided into three main sections:
- Vehicle safety questions: Also known as “show me, tell me” questions, this section assesses your understanding of safety features and procedures.
- Off-road exercise: Here, you’ll be required to demonstrate your manoeuvring skills, such as reversing and coupling or uncoupling the trailer.
- On-road driving: This is the most extensive part of the test, where you’ll be evaluated on your ability to drive safely and competently in various road and traffic conditions.
Planning for practical success
The practical components of the HGV test carry significant weight. They form three parts of the overall test, and much of the CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) qualification. The most influential thing that you can do to ensure success is to work with an established and proven driving school. The expert teachers and advisors will ensure that you are adequately prepared for success. Look for these features:
- Structured learning: A reputable driving school offers a structured curriculum that covers all necessary skills and knowledge, preparing you comprehensively for each section of the test.
- Experienced instructors: Skilled instructors provide valuable insights, guidance, and feedback tailored to your learning pace and needs.
- Simulated test conditions: Many schools offer mock tests that replicate the actual test conditions, giving you a taste of what to expect and decreasing anxiety.
Your driving school, and specifically your instructors, will highlight the ways in which you can instil confidence as you approach your practical HGV driving tests.
- Familiarise yourself with the vehicle: Spend ample time getting to know the vehicle you’ll be driving. Understanding its controls, dimensions, and handling will make you more comfortable during the test.
- Practice manoeuvres regularly: Reversing, parking, and coupling/uncoupling are critical skills. Practise these manoeuvres repeatedly until they become second nature.
- Stay calm and focused: Nerves can get the best of you, especially during the on-road driving section. Deep breathing and positive visualisation techniques can help calm your nerves.
The practical test is a culmination of all your learning and practice. Treating it with the seriousness it deserves will go a long way in ensuring success.
Licence types
You might wonder if certain licence categories are easier to pass than others. Really, this should not influence your decision of which licence category to learn to drive. Instead, look at the careers that are open to you with the different licence categories. Good driving schools will be able to discuss and advise you even at this early stage, so don’t hesitate to contact them. The licence categories you’ll likely be considering are:
- Category C1: This allows you to drive vehicles weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg, with a trailer up to 750kg. The test for this category is generally considered less challenging, as the vehicles are smaller.
- Category C: This licence covers larger vehicles over 3,500kg, with a trailer up to 750kg. The practical test is more demanding due to the increased size and weight of the vehicles.
- Category C+E: This is the most comprehensive licence, allowing you to drive Category C vehicles with trailers over 750kg. The complexity of managing an articulated lorry makes this test the most challenging.
Remember that it is not the licence category that truly impacts your chances of passing the practical test, but your level of learning. This is why your choice of HGV driver training provider is so important, and why we only recommend the best schools.
Test locations
Where you choose to learn and take your HGV test may also influence its difficulty. However, each location will have its unique set of challenges. Rural areas may have less traffic but could include narrow country roads or steep gradients. Choosing a training centre that provides diverse driving environments can better prepare you for any eventuality. At HGV Training we access a network of local schools across the country so that you can learn in an area that suits you.
Remember, passing the HGV test is not just about getting a licence, it’s about becoming a competent and confident driver ready to tackle the roads. Explore our range of driver training quotes to find the best value and highest quality training that the UK can offer.
