Becoming a qualified HGV Class 1 driver is one of the most straightforward career changes available in the UK — and one of the most rewarding. With a national shortage of qualified drivers, competitive salaries starting at £35,000 and rising above £50,000 for experienced drivers, and a clear training pathway that takes as little as four weeks, there has never been a better time to get your Class 1 licence.
This guide covers everything you need to know: what a Class 1 licence is, who qualifies, what the training involves, how much it costs, and what to expect on test day and beyond.
Table of Contents
- What Is an HGV Class 1 Licence?
- Class 1 vs Class 2: What's the Difference?
- Who Can Apply? Requirements & Eligibility
- The HGV Medical (D4 Form)
- Theory Tests: Multiple Choice & Hazard Perception
- Driver CPC Tests (Module 2 & Module 4)
- Practical Training: What to Expect
- The Practical Driving Test
- How Much Does a Class 1 Licence Cost?
- Direct Access: Can You Skip Class 2?
- After Qualifying: Jobs, Salary & Career Progression
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an HGV Class 1 Licence?
An HGV Class 1 licence is the official term for a category C+E driving licence — the highest level of goods vehicle licence issued by the DVLA. It authorises you to drive an articulated lorry (a tractor unit connected to a semi-trailer) or a rigid vehicle towing a trailer exceeding 750 kg, with no upper limit on combined weight.
Class 1 drivers operate the full range of professional HGV vehicles: supermarket distribution artics, flatbed trailers, tankers, refrigerated units, car transporters, and more. It is the licence that powers the UK's entire supply chain.
The term "Class 1" is an industry convention. The DVLA officially categorises this as C+E (category C — rigid lorries over 7,500 kg — combined with category E — trailer over 750 kg). You may also see it referred to as an LGV Class 1 licence; LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) and HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) are used interchangeably. See: What's the Difference Between LGV and HGV?
Class 1 vs Class 2: What's the Difference?
The key distinction is the type of vehicle:
| Feature | Class 2 (Category C) | Class 1 (Category C+E) |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Rigid lorry only | Articulated lorry or rigid + trailer |
| Max weight | No upper limit (rigid) | No upper limit (artic) |
| Trailer | Up to 750 kg | Any trailer over 750 kg |
| Prerequisite | Category B (car) | Category C (Class 2) |
| Typical salary | £28,000–£38,000 | £35,000–£50,000+ |
| Job availability | Good | Excellent (high demand) |
For a detailed comparison, see: Class 1 vs Class 2 HGV Licence: What's the Difference?
Who Can Apply? Requirements & Eligibility
To apply for an HGV Class 1 licence, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old. However, drivers under 21 may face some restrictions on the types of professional driving work available to them unless they complete an approved Young Driver Scheme or apprenticeship.
- Existing licence: You must hold a full category B (car) licence. To go directly to Class 1, you will need either a full C licence or to take a combined C and C+E course (direct access).
- Medical fitness: You must pass a Group 2 medical examination (the D4 form) completed by a DVLA-approved medical practitioner. This is more stringent than a standard driving medical.
- Provisional licence: You must apply for a provisional C or C+E licence from the DVLA before you can take your tests.
- Right to work in the UK: You must have the legal right to work in the UK to take professional driving employment.
There is no upper age limit for applying, though medical requirements become more frequent from age 45 (renewal every 5 years) and annual from age 65.
The HGV Medical (D4 Form)
The HGV medical is one of the first steps in the process. You must visit a doctor registered with the DVLA to complete a D4 medical examination form. The examination covers:
- Eyesight (you must meet minimum visual acuity standards: 6/7.5 in the better eye and 6/60 in the worse eye, with both eyes open)
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular health
- Neurological conditions (epilepsy, sleep disorders, etc.)
- Diabetes management (insulin-treated diabetes requires additional assessment)
- Mental health conditions
- Hearing
The cost of the D4 medical is typically £50–£100 and is not covered by the NHS. Most GPs can complete the form, but you should check they are registered to do so. The completed D4 form is submitted to the DVLA with your provisional licence application.
For full details on medical requirements, see: Essential HGV Medical Guidance for Drivers.
Theory Tests: Multiple Choice & Hazard Perception
The HGV theory test consists of two parts taken in the same sitting:
Multiple Choice Test
100 questions covering topics including road safety, vehicle safety, rules of the road, drivers' hours regulations, and environmental issues. You must score at least 85 out of 100 to pass. The test lasts 115 minutes. Cost: £26.
Hazard Perception Test
19 video clips showing real-road scenarios. You must click when you spot a developing hazard. Each clip contains one scoreable hazard (one clip contains two). Maximum score is 100; you need at least 67 to pass. The test lasts approximately 25 minutes.
Both parts must be passed in the same sitting. If you fail one part, you must retake both. The pass rate for the HGV theory test is around 50%, so thorough preparation is essential. Use official DVSA revision materials and practice apps. For guidance on the hazard perception element, see: When Should You Click in the Hazard Perception Test?
Driver CPC Tests (Module 2 & Module 4)
Professional HGV drivers must hold a Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) qualification. The initial CPC consists of four modules, but modules 1 and 3 are combined with the standard theory and practical driving tests. The two additional CPC-specific tests are:
Module 2 — CPC Case Studies (Theory)
Seven case studies lasting 90 minutes in total. Each case study presents a real-world driving scenario with multiple questions. You must score at least 40 out of 50 on each case study. Cost: £23. This test is taken at the same time as the standard theory test (or separately).
Module 4 — CPC Practical Demonstration
A 30-minute practical test at a DVSA test centre. You will be asked to demonstrate vehicle safety checks (the "show me, tell me" questions for HGV) and perform a practical task such as loading/unloading, coupling/uncoupling a trailer, or demonstrating safe working practices. Cost: £55 (weekday) or £63 (evening/weekend).
For a complete guide to the Driver CPC, see: Driver CPC Explained: What Is It, Why Do You Need It, and How to Stay Compliant.
Practical Training: What to Expect
The practical training is the core of your HGV qualification. At GS Driver Training, we offer training at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey — a purpose-built training environment with a full runway and road network, allowing you to build confidence before driving on public roads.
What You Will Learn
- Vehicle familiarisation: cab controls, mirrors, instruments, and safety systems
- Pre-drive safety checks: walkaround inspection, tyre checks, fluid levels, lights
- Moving off and stopping: clutch control, gear changes, braking distances
- Manoeuvring: reversing, turning in the road, coupling and uncoupling trailers (Class 1)
- Road driving: dual carriageways, roundabouts, junctions, motorways
- Drivers' hours rules: tachograph operation, rest periods, working time regulations
How Long Does Training Take?
Training duration depends on your experience and the category:
| Licence | Typical Training Duration |
|---|---|
| Class 2 (C) from scratch | 5–7 days |
| Class 1 (C+E) upgrade from Class 2 | 3–5 days |
| Class 1 direct access (C+E from B) | 7–10 days |
Experienced drivers with prior large vehicle experience may require fewer training days. We assess each student individually and tailor the training accordingly.
The Practical Driving Test
The practical driving test is conducted by a DVSA examiner and lasts approximately 1.5 hours. It takes place partly at the test centre and partly on public roads. The test includes:
- Vehicle safety questions: "Show me, tell me" questions about vehicle safety checks. You will be asked to demonstrate or explain checks such as tyre condition, brake fluid level, and how to check the steering is working correctly. See: HGV Show Me Tell Me Questions 2026.
- Reversing exercise: Reversing into a bay or coupling/uncoupling a trailer (Class 1).
- On-road driving: Approximately 60 minutes of driving on public roads, including various road types and traffic conditions.
The examiner will assess your ability to drive safely, follow the Highway Code, manage the vehicle competently, and demonstrate awareness of other road users. You are allowed up to 15 minor faults; a single serious or dangerous fault results in a fail.
The pass rate for the HGV practical test is around 50–55%. For tips on how to prepare, see: Is it Difficult to Pass the HGV Driving Test?
How Much Does a Class 1 Licence Cost?
The total cost of getting a Class 1 licence from scratch (starting with a category B car licence) typically ranges from £2,500 to £4,500. Here is a breakdown of the main costs:
| Item | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| D4 Medical examination | £50–£100 |
| Provisional C licence application (DVLA) | £43 |
| Theory test (multiple choice + hazard perception) | £26 |
| Module 2 CPC case studies | £23 |
| Module 4 CPC practical demonstration | £55–£63 |
| Practical driving test (C) | £115 (weekday) / £141 (weekend) |
| Practical driving test (C+E) | £115 (weekday) / £141 (weekend) |
| Training (Class 2 + Class 1 combined) | £1,800–£3,500 |
| Total (approximate) | £2,500–£4,500 |
For a full cost breakdown including finance options, see: How Much Does an HGV Licence Cost in 2026?
Government-funded training schemes are available for eligible candidates, including the Skills Bootcamp for HGV Drivers. Ask our team about current funding options when you enquire.
Direct Access: Can You Skip Class 2?
Yes. It is legally possible to go directly from a category B car licence to a full Class 1 (C+E) licence without first obtaining a Class 2 (C) licence. This is known as the direct access route.
The direct access route saves time and money compared to doing Class 2 and Class 1 separately. However, it requires more intensive training as you are learning to drive an articulated lorry without prior experience of rigid HGV vehicles. Most training providers, including GS Driver Training, offer direct access courses that combine the C and C+E training into a single programme.
The direct access route is particularly popular with career changers who want to qualify as quickly as possible. For a full guide, see: Direct Access to Class 1: Can You Skip Class 2?
After Qualifying: Jobs, Salary & Career Progression
Job Opportunities
Qualified Class 1 drivers are in extremely high demand across the UK. Common roles include:
- Supermarket and retail distribution driver
- Fuel tanker driver
- Flatbed and curtainsider driver
- Refrigerated transport driver
- Car transporter driver
- Container haulage driver
- Owner-driver / self-employed haulier
Salary Expectations
Average salaries for Class 1 drivers in 2026:
- New qualified driver: £28,000–£35,000
- Experienced driver (2–5 years): £35,000–£45,000
- Senior/specialist driver: £45,000–£55,000+
- Agency/contract rates: £18–£25 per hour
For a full salary guide, see: HGV Driver Salary UK 2026.
Maintaining Your Licence
After qualifying, you must:
- Complete 35 hours of periodic CPC training every five years to maintain your Driver CPC qualification
- Renew your HGV licence every five years (annually from age 65)
- Maintain your medical fitness (D4 medical every 5 years from age 45, annually from age 65)
- Keep your address details current with the DVLA
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Class 1 HGV licence?
From start to finish, the process typically takes 4–8 weeks. This includes time for your medical, provisional licence application, theory tests, practical training, and the driving test. The actual training is usually 7–10 days for direct access (Class 1 from a car licence) or 3–5 days for an upgrade from Class 2.
Can I get a Class 1 licence at 18?
Yes. The minimum age is 18. However, some employers prefer drivers aged 21 or over due to insurance requirements. Young Driver Schemes and apprenticeships can help younger drivers access employment sooner.
Do I need to start with Class 2 before getting Class 1?
No. You can go directly to Class 1 via the direct access route. However, many drivers choose to start with Class 2 to build experience and confidence before progressing to articulated vehicles.
Is HGV driving suitable for women?
Absolutely. The industry is actively encouraging more women to join, and modern vehicles are designed to be comfortable for all drivers. At GS Driver Training, we offer female instructors for those who prefer them, and we have trained many successful female HGV drivers. See: Women in HGV Driving: Breaking Barriers and Building Careers.
What happens if I fail my test?
You can rebook and retake the test. There is a minimum waiting period of three working days for the practical test. Most training providers offer additional training sessions to address areas of weakness before your resit. See: Failing the HGV Driving Test and What to Do.
Is there funding available for HGV training?
Yes. The government's Skills Bootcamp for HGV Drivers provides funded training for eligible candidates. Some employers also offer to fund training in exchange for a minimum employment commitment. Ask our team about current funding options when you enquire.
How do I maintain my CPC after qualifying?
You must complete 35 hours of periodic CPC training every five years. This training can be completed in blocks (e.g., seven 5-hour sessions) at any DVSA-approved training provider. For guidance on tracking your hours, see: How to Check Your CPC Hours.
Ready to Get Started?
GS Driver Training is a DVSA-recognised training provider based at Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey. We have been voted Best HGV Training Company for seven consecutive years and have helped thousands of people earn their HGV licence and launch successful driving careers.
- View our HGV training courses
- Find out which licence you need (free interactive tool)
- Contact us to discuss your options with our team
- Call us on 01252 447808
