HGV Cat C

Course Overview

The Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Driver Package will enable you to acquire the knowledge and skills to become a professional HGV driver. Upon course completion, you will obtain your CAT C driving licence, enabling you to operate a rigid lorry. The course introduces you to transporting and moving goods within the logistics sector to the required knowledge. During your time in the programme, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Enhance your interview skills
  • Produce an engaging CV that aligns with employer requirements
  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of the supply chain by examining how cargo moves from the warehouse to the lorry.

Course Includes

  • HGV Medical
  • HGV Theory Training & Tests
  • HGV Practical Lessons
  • HGV Practical Test
  • Category C (Class 2)
  • Free Access to Driving Test Success Anytime (an E-Learning package designed to enhance the learner journey)
  • Level 2 Certificate in Warehousing and Storage Principles
  • Emergency First Aid at Work
  • CV Writing & Job Searching
Entry Requirement

Entry Requirements

If you are aged 19 or older, have no prior HGV experience, and have a full UK Driving Licence, this course is perfect for you as it will help you acquire your HGV Licence.

This course is open to employed, or unemployed individuals who are generally in good health and able to commit to the scheduled dates fully.

You must live in the required funding area postcode.

This programme is designed for individuals who have no prior experience in driving HGV vehicles but are eager to enter the industry.

Course Duration

The classroom-based training typically runs for four weeks from Monday to Friday. You will then need to complete 40 hours of self-study using our online e-learning package to support you in preparation for passing your DVLA theory tests. Your practical sessions cannot be arranged until you have passed all three theory tests. This is followed by seven practical HGV driving sessions followed by your practical test day.

Theory Sessions
  • You will start by completing Warehouse and Storage Principals, Emergency First Aid at Work, CV Writing and Job Searching.
  • These sessions cover essential information related to driving rules, safety, and road signs.
Online Study
  • After the theory sessions, you will spend a total of 40 hours studying online.
  • This online study will reinforce the theoretical knowledge you have gained.
Theory Tests
  • Following your online study, you will undergo three DVLA theory tests.
  • These tests assess your understanding of driving concepts and regulations.
Practical Driver Training
  • Once you have passed the theory tests, you will begin practical driver training.
  • This training involves hands-on practice behind the wheel.
  • Over the course of seven days, you will receive rigorous practical instruction and guidance.
Final Practical Testing
  • During this test, you will demonstrate your driving skills and knowledge.
  • Successful completion leads to obtaining your HGV driver’s licence.

Our vision is to teach and prepare people for a better future.

Other Useful Information

Passing the Course

During the course, you will need access to Driving Time Success Anytime online to study; access to a laptop, smartphone computer or tablet is essential. In addition, it is a mandatory requirement by the DVLA to pass a medical in order to attain your HGV licence. The cost of the medical examination will be included as part of the course.

Certificates

You will receive certificates from the DVLA when you pass your three theory tests; please provide the Betaris @Gloucestershire College team with a copy of these, this will then trigger the next stage of training.

Destination Data

We will contact you at the end of your course to find out how you are getting on and ask you for details of the job you have secured. Please help us to collect this information, called Destination Data, as it is essential for us to monitor both your success and ours. Please expect a call or an email from your friendly Betaris @Gloucesterhire College team. It would be great if you could let us know as soon as you get a job and email us at info.betaris@gloscol.ac.uk.

FAQs

How will I get my licence?

As part of the onboarding process, the team assists with the application and submission of your provisional licence to the DVLA. Once the Practical Driving part of the course is successful, the HGV licence will be added to your existing licence.

I have points on my car licence, does this affect my application for a HGV licence?

You don’t have to worry about any restrictions when applying for an HGV licence, regardless of the points on your current licence.

What is the theory test?

Online theory tests are taken during the course in line with DVLA requirements. These tests are the Hazard Perception test, Multiple Choice test, and Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DCPC). Available are lots of mock tests to be able to practice before taking the actual tests.

What is DCPC

As a professional bus, coach, or lorry driver, obtaining the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (DCPC) is a necessary qualification. The certification is mandated across Europe, with the primary objective of enhancing road safety while upholding exceptional driving standards. To maintain this credential, drivers are required to complete 36 hours of DCPC training every five years.

What is the initial DCPC qualification

Part 1 – Case Studies
Part 2 – DCPC Practical test (vehicle safety demonstration)

Is work guaranteed?

While we cannot promise employment, we aim to equip you with the essential skills and qualifications required to pursue a career in the HGV industry. Additionally, we can assist in connecting you with potential employers.

What can I expect from my first job after qualifying?

According to existing rules, HGV drivers are only allowed to drive for a maximum of nine hours in a day, with a mandatory break of at least 45 minutes after every 4.5 hours of driving. This limit can be extended to ten hours twice a week, but the weekly driving limit cannot exceed 56 hours.

What are exam regulations?

If your course includes any exams, it is important that you are familiar with the exam regulations and understand that they are in place to ensure valid assessment of learning. During exam times, you will not be permitted to bring any equipment or technology into the exam room that allows you to access the internet. This includes mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches. We require you to arrive in advance of the exam time and ensure that you leave your equipment at the designated safe spot.

What happens when I complete the course?

Once you receive your full HGV driving licence from the DVLA, you will then be able to apply for professional Class 1 and Class 2 employment, as long as you have a valid Tacho Card. You will need to apply for one before you can start driving professionally. 

Betaris Training works with a number of logistic sector recruitment agencies, as well as local and national employers, who will be able to assist you with your search for employment.

Will I receive a certificate?

You will receive certificates from the DVLA when you pass your three theory test, please provide the Betaris @Gloucestershire College team with a copy of these, this will then trigger the next stage of training.

Do you offer further training and progression?

At the end of your course, you may be eligible or choose to advance onto higher courses or additional training known as progression. Further training refers to the ongoing process of enhancing skills, knowledge, and abilities beyond the initial training or education. If you would like to receive further information on additional courses, email infobetaris@gloscol.ac.uk

Do I need to give feedback about my course?

Betaris would like to wish you all the best in your future career and we hope, through our support, that we have given you the tools to enable you to succeed. Your trainer will ask you to submit a Learner Feedback survey at the end of your course, and we encourage you to complete it.

I have been told you will need to contact me when my course ends. Why?

At the end of your course, we’ll reach out to you to find out how you are getting on with your journey, and what impact we have had with providing your course. This is part of the funding requirements, so please send us an update and let us know how you are getting
on, especially if you have found employment, emails can be sent directly to
infobetaris@gloscol.ac.uk

Do I need to inform you when I get a job?

We value all our learners and welcome all feedback, whether positive or negative. Please let us know how we did, and if there is anything we can do to improve for future learners. We are really interested in your next steps so please let us know if you progress onto another course, find employment, or do an apprenticeship.

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