Agency HGV work or an employed job after you pass

Choosing your first HGV driving job

If you currently work in a warehouse, shop, or van driving role, passing your HGV test can open the door to better weekly pay and more job options.

After qualifying, you will usually choose between HGV agency work and a permanent job with one transport company. Neither route is right for everyone. Your best choice depends on your need for flexibility, the type of work you want, and how much support you expect from an employer.

How HGV agency work operates

An agency supplies drivers to transport firms that need cover. You may work at different depots, drive different vehicles, or complete a range of deliveries.

For a newly qualified agency driver, this can be a useful way to build experience. Some employers want drivers who have already worked with different loads, routes, vehicles, and delivery systems. Agency work can help you learn how the industry operates before choosing a permanent role.

Potential benefits include:

• More choice over the shifts you accept
• Access to day, night, weekend, or short-term work
• The chance to try different types of driving
• A way to gain experience with recognised transport companies
• The possibility of starting work soon after qualifying

However, agency work can be less predictable. Available shifts may change from week to week, and some assignments may involve early starts, waiting time, manual handling, or unfamiliar delivery procedures. Ask the agency about pay, holiday pay, shift patterns, mileage, and how much notice you will receive.

What an employed HGV driver can expect

An employed HGV driver normally works directly for one company. You may have regular routes, a set depot, and a more predictable weekly routine.

Permanent jobs can offer:

• Consistent hours and income
• A regular vehicle or familiar fleet
• Paid holiday and workplace benefits
• Training for the company’s procedures
• Better opportunities to progress into different driving roles

The work may be less flexible. You could be expected to follow a fixed rota, work particular weekends, or complete duties that are not part of your preferred driving work. Before accepting a job, check the start and finish times, average weekly hours, overtime arrangements, and whether nights out are required.

Which route suits a new driver?

HGV agency work may suit you if you want to start earning quickly, test different jobs, or keep control over when you work. It can also be useful if you are not yet sure whether you prefer trunking, multi-drop, pallet deliveries, or another type of operation.

An employed HGV driver role may suit you if you want stability, a regular routine, and the chance to become part of one transport team. Some companies also provide a structured introduction for newly qualified drivers, although the level of support varies.

Do not judge a job by the hourly rate alone. Consider travel to the depot, unpaid breaks, loading duties, shift length, weekend work, and the reliability of available hours.

Getting help with your next step

Speak to potential employers and agencies before committing. Tell them when you passed, which licence category you hold, and what work you can realistically do. Be honest about your experience and ask what support is available for a newly qualified agency driver.

If you are still planning your HGV training or want to discuss your options, call 0800 820 3300 or use /contact.