Direct HGV

HGV driver training in the United Kingdom

Direct HGV is a British company dedicated to training heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers. Its offering ranges from preparation for the truck driving licence to obtaining the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC), with a comprehensive service that includes arranging medicals and theory tests, practical training and support with finding employment once the licence has been obtained.

Licence and certification programmes

The company structures its training around the main HGV licence categories:

• Cat C1 – 7.5T Licence: for vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes.
• Cat C – Class 2 Licence: for rigid vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, typically used for local deliveries.
• Cat C+E – Class 1 Licence: for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with a detachable trailer, used on long routes and international distribution.
• Driver CPC: the Certificate of Professional Competence, a legal requirement for transporting goods for hire or reward.

The company notes that it is possible to go straight to the C+E category from a car licence, without first going through other categories.

Four-step training process

The pathway proposed by Direct HGV is structured in four stages. First, the interested person registers their interest and has a conversation with the team to define their training and recruitment needs. The company then arranges the medical and theory tests, for which it offers online preparation software. The third phase covers practical training and obtaining the CPC. Finally, the recruitment team helps the new driver find a job that suits their preferences and their work-life balance.

National network of centres and online learning option

Direct HGV states that it has more than 300 combined training locations across the UK for the medical, theory tests, practical training and CPC. The company highlights the possibility of training in the student's local area. It also offers online theory training through its e-learning platform.

Additional services and specific groups

The company offers students a monthly deposit option to finance their training and a job search service after obtaining the licence. It also has a dedicated section for female HGV drivers and another aimed at businesses. Existing customers have their own dashboard.

Industry context and salary prospects

Direct HGV frames its activity within the HGV driver shortage affecting the UK, which the company puts at around 85,000 professionals. According to the data it uses, starting salaries can reach £35,000 for a Cat C driver and £40,000 for a Cat C+E driver, depending on location and job.

Bromley office and telephone support

The company has an office in Bromley, in south-east London. It can be reached via two telephone lines: one national and one specifically for Birmingham.

Location and contact

Newman Flexible Workspace Commercial House, 2 Newman Rd, Bromley BR1 1RJ