With the logistics industry growing rapidly across the UK, qualified bus, van, and truck drivers are in high demand. If you are considering a career in transport, you have likely come across the terms HGV and LGV.
But what is the real difference between HGV and LGV?
Are they the same?
And which licence do you actually need?
Let’s break it down clearly.
Understanding the Difference Between HGV and LGV
The terms HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) and LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) are often used interchangeably today. However, their origins are slightly different.
In modern UK licensing, both terms generally refer to commercial vehicles weighing over 3.5 tonnes.
The confusion comes from older terminology.
What Did LGV Originally Mean?
Historically, LGV referred to two different types of vehicles:
1. Light Goods Vehicles
These vehicles weigh under 3.5 tonnes. Examples include:
- Vans
- Pick-up trucks
- Small commercial vehicles
You can drive these with a standard Category B car licence.
2. Large Goods Vehicles
These vehicles weigh over 3.5 tonnes. They include:
- Curtain-side lorries
- Tippers
- Box vans
- Flatbeds
- Refrigerated trucks
This category now falls under what most people call HGV.
What Is an HGV?
HGV stands for Heavy Goods Vehicle.
The term became widely used when vehicle taxation categories were introduced in the UK. Authorities needed a clear way to distinguish heavier commercial vehicles from lighter ones. As a result, vehicles over 3.5 tonnes became known as Heavy Goods Vehicles.
Today, when people talk about becoming a truck driver, they usually mean getting an HGV licence.
In practical terms, there is no major operational difference between HGV and LGV in modern UK licensing. The terms describe the same category of heavy commercial vehicles.
Licence Requirements for HGV / LGV Vehicles
If you want to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes professionally, you must:
- Hold a full UK car driving licence
- Be at least 18 years old
- Pass a medical examination
- Pass theory tests
- Complete practical training
- Pass the practical driving test
You must also complete Driver CPC if you plan to drive professionally. This qualification is regulated by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency.
HGV Licence Classes Explained
There are different licence categories depending on the vehicle size and configuration.
Category C1
Category C1 allows you to drive vehicles between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes.
This licence is common for:
- Ambulance drivers
- Local delivery vehicles
- Smaller commercial trucks
Drivers who passed their car test before 1997 often already have C1 entitlement.
Category C (Class 2)
Category C allows you to drive rigid vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, up to 32 tonnes.
These vehicles have a fixed cab and trailer section. This is often referred to as Class 2.
The trailer weight must not exceed 750kg.
Many drivers start with Category C before progressing further.
Category C+E (Class 1)
Category C+E is the most advanced licence.
It allows you to drive articulated lorries and drawbar combinations. These vehicles can weigh up to 44 tonnes.
This licence gives you the greatest flexibility and earning potential in the logistics industry.
So, What Is the Real Difference Between HGV and LGV?
In simple terms:
- LGV was the older technical term.
- HGV became the more commonly used term.
- In modern UK driving licences, they refer to the same heavy vehicle category.
The difference is mainly historical, not practical.
When applying for jobs, you will see both terms used. Do not worry — they mean the same type of licence.
Which Licence Should You Choose?
If you want maximum job opportunities, consider:
- Starting with Category C
- Progressing to Category C+E
This path opens doors to:
- Long-haul transport
- Specialist haulage
- Temperature-controlled logistics
- Container work
- Tipper and construction haulage
Your career goals should guide your decision.
Start Your HGV Training with GS Driver Training
At GS Driver Training, we support:
- Career changers
- New drivers
- Experienced drivers upgrading licences
We offer structured training programmes tailored to your goals. Whether you want Class 2 or Class 1, we guide you step by step.
If you are still unsure about the difference between HGV and LGV, our expert team will happily explain your options.
We provide professional HGV driver training at competitive prices across the UK.
Final Thoughts
The difference between HGV and LGV is mostly historical terminology. Today, both terms refer to heavy commercial vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.
What truly matters is choosing the right licence category for your career.
Ready to begin?
Contact GS Driver Training today and take the first step toward your future in professional driving.
