In the present, the number one factor to encourage you to pursue Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driving in the UK is the presence of abundant opportunities.
This has been caused by existing LGV licence holders moving out of the industry for other jobs and the fact that there are minimal trainees in this area.
Policy Changes
Due to this, employers are changing their policies so that LGV driving jobs can attract talent. Therefore, drivers have the chance to receive higher wages and get better benefits as well as great working hours than in the past. However, there is an existing slump in available LGV drivers, salaries in this sector have consistently been rated as relatively good, mostly exceeding the minimum hourly pay by between 50p and £1.
Job security is also another element that makes LGV driving an attractive option. In addition to being highly controlled to safeguard the rights of drivers, lack of drivers forces employers to implement adequate measures to keep their current drivers.
The Standards to Be Met
Currently, the scarcity of drivers is also exacerbated by the fact that individuals fail to meet the standards to practise as an LGV driver. Many drivers have qualified for C+E and C class licences but have not undergone the mandatory training for CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence). A CPC course includes training from authorised trainers for duration of 5 hours a day for one week. The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) issues the DQC (Driver Qualification Card) based solely on attendance. There are no examinations or evaluations that one has to pass.
The amount charged to train and receive the DQC is minimal. But, as an initiative to ensure these jobs are more appeasing, some employers in this sector have programs to cover the bill if drivers have previously acquired a C or C+E licence.
Flexibility to Work Around Home Life
The flexibility associated with being an LGV driver is another reason to consider this position. Drivers who like the open road have the opportunity to choose long-distance jobs that encompass driving across the UK or in some cases abroad. On the other hand, drivers who prefer to remain nearer to their homes can choose driving work that offers local, regional or city hauling.
The training and licensing necessary to become a driver is quite low and is achievable within a short time. First, to begin training, drivers must possess a normal car driving licence. Then, a C category or class 2 licence is needed which requires training, an assessment and practical trial. After getting the C licence, you can advance your qualification by getting a C+E category or class 1 licence.
The Time Needed to Complete Courses
The time required to complete these licensing standards is determined by the course you choose and the total time that you have to spend on training. Where the trainee receives daily one on one training the course is completed quickest.
Certainly, individuals can begin a shift to LGV Driving while still working with their current employer by choosing part-time training at any time they are available such as the weekends.