The Best HGV Training in Dorking — Pass Sooner with GS Driver Training
Want the best HGV training near Dorking? You’re in the right place. GS Driver Training delivers clear, confidence-building coaching just down the road at Dunsfold Aerodrome, Stovolds Hill, Cranleigh, GU6 8TB. We keep things simple: modern trucks, structured lessons, and a step-by-step plan that gets you test-ready without wasting time or money.
Whether you’re aiming for Category C (Class 2), C+E (Class 1), C1/C1+E, D1 (minibus) or B+E (car & trailer), we’ll tailor a course to your experience, your learning style, and your target job.
Why Dorking learners choose GS Driver Training
Straightforward coaching. We teach exactly what examiners look for and rehearse it until it’s second nature—no fluff, no filler.
Realistic practice. You’ll train on local routes and a proper reversing pad, so test day feels familiar.
Flexible schedules. Weekdays, weekends, evenings, or an intensive block. You choose.
Pick your hours. Book 16 / 20 / 24 practical hours, or ask us to build a custom plan.
End-to-end support. From medical and provisional paperwork to theory, CPC, and test logistics—we guide you through the lot.
Which licence fits your goal?
- Category C (Class 2) — Rigid lorries over 7.5t.Best first step with the widest job options around Surrey and the South East.
- Category C+E (Class 1) — Articulated lorries with trailers over 750 kg.Higher earning potential and long-haul roles; upgrade after Cat C or go direct if eligible.
- Category C1 — 3.5–7.5t (ambulances, small trucks, horseboxes).Great for NHS and specialist fleets.
- Category C1+E — C1 plus trailer over 750 kg.Ideal for heavier horseboxes and specialist towing.
- D1 (Minibus) — 9–16 passenger seats.Schools, charities, and community transport.
- B+E (Car & Trailer) — Professional towing. Modern rules give entitlement, but remember: you get the licence, not the skill. If you tow valuable kit or tow for work, proper training is priceless.
Tell us the type of work you want. We’ll map the quickest path from your current licence to your target role.
Your route to a pass — clear and predictable
1) Medical & provisional We’ll point you to reputable clinics for your HGV medical and help with DVLA forms (D2/D4) so admin doesn’t slow you down.
2) Theory & Hazard Perception Get structured study materials and mock tests. New to professional driving? We also cover Module 2 (Case Studies) for Initial CPC if you need it.
3) Practical training (16 / 20 / 24 hours)You’ll master:
- Walk-around checks and examiner-style questions
- Mirror discipline and observation links at HGV scale
- Urban, rural and dual-carriageway driving
- Reverse to the box (all categories)
- Uncouple/recouple (C+E) on a proper pad
- Full mock tests under exam conditions
4) Tests
- Module 3a: off-road reverse (+ uncouple/recouple for C+E)
- Module 3b: on-road driving assessment
- Module 4: CPC practical demonstration (if you need Initial CPC)
We time your lessons so you peak on test day—not a week too early, not a day too late.
Book Practical Hours Your Way
- 16 Hours — You’ve driven large vans or rigids; you need targeted polish.
- 20 Hours — Our most popular option; enough time to iron out habits and build consistency.
- 24 Hours — Best for brand-new starters or anyone who wants extra reassurance before the test.
Need a different split or an intensive? Say the word and we’ll tailor it.
Driver CPC Made Easy
- Initial CPC (Modules 2 & 4) — Required if you’ll drive for hire or reward and don’t already have acquired rights. We deliver focused Module 4 coaching on load security, legal compliance and safety so you pass with confidence.
- Periodic CPC (35 hours every 5 years) — Keep your card valid with flexible weekday or weekend modules. We’ll help you plan your hours long before expiry.
What Training With Us Feels Like
Day 1: Foundations: Vehicle checks, cabin drills, smooth control, and precise mirrors. You leave with clear wins and a personal action list.
Day 2: Manoeuvres & discipline: Reverse to the box, tight turns, and hazard planning around Dorking-style urban features and country lanes.
Day 3: Pace & polish: Higher-speed work, independent driving, and commentary. Full mock test and targeted feedback.
Day 4: Test rehearsal: We close gaps, rehearse questions, and run short routes that mirror exam day. Calm brain, clear plan.
Test day: Familiar vehicle, familiar pad, familiar roads. Drive like you did yesterday.
Getting to us from Dorking
Train at: GS Driver Training, Dunsfold Aerodrome, Stovolds Hill, Cranleigh, GU6 8TB
By Car (≈30–40 mins):
- Take the A25 west or A24 south to pick up the A281 (Guildford ↔ Horsham).
- Follow signs for Cranleigh, then turn onto Stovolds Hill for Dunsfold Aerodrome.
- Enter via the main gate and follow our joining instructions. Free parking on site.
By Train + Taxi:
- Dorking → Guildford (often via Leatherhead).
- Taxi from Guildford to Dunsfold Aerodrome takes ~20–25 minutes.
Bus Route:
- Dorking → Guildford bus station, then a service to Cranleigh.
- Short taxi from Cranleigh to the aerodrome.
(Service frequencies vary—always check live times, especially at weekends.)
FAQs for Dorking learners
Q. Can I go straight to C+E?
Ans: yes, you can book our fast track option skip out the cat C for maximum job choice and pay.
Q. Do I need CPC before training?
Ans: No. Train and test first if you like. You only need Driver CPC to drive professionally (for hire or reward). We can add Initial CPC to your course when you’re ready.
Q. I’ve driven vans for years—does that help?
Ans: Absolutely. Your awareness transfers well. We’ll adapt your observation links, positioning, and speed choice to HGV size and weight.
Q. Do you run evenings or weekends?
Ans: Yes. We offer evening, weekend, and intensive options around busy schedules.
Q. What about car & trailer (B+E)?
Ans: We provide B+E training and tests. Modern rules may give entitlement, but towing safely takes practice—remember: you get the licence, not the skill.
Life After You Pass
With Cat C, step into utilities, construction, refuse, council, and multi-drop roles. Add C+E to unlock trunking, RDCs, containers, and higher-paid long-haul. C1 leads to ambulance and specialist fleets; D1 suits schools and community transport. The market needs safe, steady drivers—qualify now and claim your place.
How To Spot The Best HGV Course Near Dorking
- Transparent inclusions. Vehicle hire for test day, reverse-area practice, and mock tests should be standard.
- Small groups, real feedback. Individual attention accelerates progress.
- No gimmicks. Clean passes come from focused practice, not shortcuts.
- Right hours for you. 16 / 20 / 24 hours is a plan, not a sales pitch.
- CPC under one roof. It’s simpler when your provider handles everything.
Ask us anything—we’ll give straight answers and a realistic timeline before you book.
Ready To Start Your HGV Training From Dorking?
Call: 01252 447808 Email: Sales@gsdrivertraining.com at: GS Driver Training, Dunsfold Aerodrome, Stovolds Hill, Cranleigh, GU6 8TB
Tell us:
- Your current licence/entitlements
- The licence you want (C, C+E, C1, C1+E, D1, B+E)
- Your availability (weekdays, weekends, intensive)
We’ll recommend the right 16 / 20 / 24-hour plan (or build a custom schedule), book your dates, and send travel directions from Dorking.
Train smart, pass first, and drive with confidence—choose GS Driver Training for the best HGV training near Dorking.