Best HGV Training in Godalming

Looking for the best HGV training near Godalming? You’re in the perfect spot. At GS Driver Training, we help new and experienced drivers move up fast—with calm, expert coaching, modern trucks, and flexible schedules that actually fit real life. Whether you want C1 (7.5t) for ambulance or small rigid roles, Category C (Class 2) for larger rigids, or you prefer to go straight to C+E (Class 1) on a fast-track route, we’ll build a plan that gets you test-ready with confidence.

You’ll train at our spacious base at Dunsfold Aerodrome, Stovolds Hill, Cranleigh, GU6 8TB—just a short hop from Godalming—on exam-standard layouts that make the test feel familiar.

Why Godalming drivers choose GS Driver Training

Fast-track to Class 1: You no longer need to pass Cat C first. Go directly to C+E with tailored 24, 28, 32, 36, or 40-hour courses.
Patient, DVSA-registered instructors: We coach good habits, clear routines, and professional standards that stick.
Modern vehicles & realistic practice: Master Module 3a reversing and (where relevant) coupling/uncoupling on a proper off-road pad, then sharpen for Module 3b on the road.
Flexible timetables: Weekdays, evenings, and weekends available. Intensives if you want to qualify quickly.
All in one place: Theory support, practical lessons, Initial Driver CPC (Modules 2 & 4) and 35-hour Periodic CPC.
Proven pass coaching: Structured lesson plans, mock tests, and crystal-clear feedback to remove the guesswork.

Courses we run for Godalming learners

C1 (3.5–7.5t)

Ideal for: Ambulance roles, utilities, removals, horseboxes, local deliveries.You’ll learn: Daily checks, size control, tight-space manoeuvres, eco-driving, safe loading, hill starts, and route planning. Add if you’re working professionally: Initial CPC then Periodic CPC (35 hours every five years).

Category C (Class 2 – rigid)

Ideal for: Distribution, construction, local authority contracts, supermarkets.You’ll learn: Examiner-standard walk-around checks, hazard anticipation, lane discipline, speed/space management, roundabouts, town work, and rural routes.

Category C+E (Class 1 – articulated) – DIRECT ACCESS

Skip Cat C. Go straight to C+E with a course length that matches your experience:

24 hours: For very confident drivers (or Cat C holders) with strong road sense.
28–32 hours (popular): Balanced time for reversing, coupling/uncoupling, and thorough on-road polish.
36–40 hours: Best if you’re new to large vehicles or want more repetition and reassurance.

We cover:

Module 3a: Reverse to the box + couple/uncouple to examiner standard.
Module 3b: On-road coaching—observation discipline, anticipation, roundabout strategy, dual carriageways, town work, and rural sections.
Professional standards: Defect reporting, safe loading awareness, examiner expectations, and calm test-day routines.

D1 (Minibus 9–16 seats)

Ideal for: Schools, charities, care providers, sports clubs, community transport.Focus: Passenger safety, smooth urban/rural driving, low-speed control, emergency procedures, accessibility awareness, and compliance.

D1+E (Minibus + trailer)

Need to tow over 750 kg behind a minibus? Choose:

8 hours: If you already tow confidently.
12 hours: Best all-rounder with extra reversing and coupling reps.
16 hours: Ideal if towing is new or you want maximum practice.

You’ll learn: Legal limits and nose-weight, load balance, trailer checks, couple/uncouple, reverse into the bay, and on-road driving with train-length awareness.

Driver CPC (Initial & Periodic)

Initial CPC (for new professional drivers): Module 2 (Case Studies) + Module 4 (Practical Demonstration)—load security, vulnerable road users, security checks, emergencies, and more.
Periodic CPC: 35 hours every five years. We run engaging, real-world modules: drivers’ hours/WTD, road risk, city restrictions, safe loading, fuel-efficient driving, wellbeing.

What the training journey looks like

Plan & book: We match your background and deadline to the right course length (no wasted hours).
Medical & forms: We point you to the D4 medical and help with DVLA provisional entitlements.
Theory prep: Multiple-choice and hazard perception support with focused feedback.
Off-road skills: Learn the reverse layout and (where relevant) coupling/uncoupling to a high, repeatable standard.
On-road coaching: Build smooth, safe, examiner-friendly driving—then rehearse it with realistic mocks.
Test week: We coordinate Module 3a and 3b (plus CPC if needed) so momentum stays high.
Pass & progress: Add CPC hours if required and step straight into interviews with confidence.

Not just a pass—employer-ready skills

Solid observation routine: The mirror and shoulder-check rhythm that prevents critical faults.
Forward planning: Positioning, timing, and speed choices that keep you safe and efficient.
Load awareness: Basics of safe loading and vehicle stability so you protect cargo and kit.
Professional walk-around checks: Catch issues before they cost you time and money.
Calm communication: Work smoothly with banksmen, yard teams, and the public.

Getting to us from Godalming

By car: Head south via the B2130/A281 corridors towards Cranleigh/Dunsfold Aerodrome. The drive is typically short and straightforward from central Godalming.By train + taxi: Trains run into Godalming or Guildford. From Guildford, a taxi to Dunsfold Aerodrome (GU6 8TB)usually takes around 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic.By bus: Services run to Cranleigh; a short taxi from the village brings you to the aerodrome.

We’ll send joining instructions and a pin-drop once you book. Free parking on site.

How long will it take?

It depends on the licence, your experience, and your diary. Many direct-access C+E learners complete medical, theory, training, and tests in two to three weeks with an intensive plan. Prefer evenings or weekends? We’ll pace it out and keep steady progress. The secret is consistent practice—we’ll map it with you, step by step.

Common questions from Godalming drivers

Do I need Cat C first for C+E?No. You can fast-track directly to C+E. Our 24–40 hour builds are designed around that route.

Will you help with the theory?Yes. We provide resources, tips, and targeted support for multiple-choice and hazard perception.

Do I need CPC?If you’ll drive for hire or reward, yes. Complete Initial CPC, then 35 hours Periodic CPC every five years.

Can I train at weekends or evenings?Absolutely. We offer flexible timetables and intensives.

How do you decide the number of hours?We assess your current skill level, goals, and test timeline. Then we recommend the shortest course that still gets you comfortably test-ready.

Prices & booking

Prices vary by category, course hours (e.g., C+E 24/28/32/36/40h or D1+E 8/12/16h), and test fees. We quote clearly and offer flexible payment options. Most importantly, we’ll help you avoid over- or under-booking hours so you pass efficiently.

Ready to start your HGV training near Godalming?

Let’s build your plan, book your slots, and get you test-ready—without the stress.

GS Driver TrainingTrain at: Dunsfold Aerodrome, Stovolds Hill, Cranleigh, GU6 8TBCall: 01252 447808Email:

Popular picks for Godalming learners:

Direct-Access C+E – 24 / 28 / 32 / 36 / 40 hours
Cat C (Class 2) – Rigid HGV
Cat C1 – 3.5–7.5t (incl. ambulance)
D1 (Minibus) and D1+E – 8 / 12 / 16 hours
Driver CPC – Initial & 35-hour Periodic

Train smart. Pass first time. Drive a better future.