Finding HGV jobs after you pass

Passing your HGV test is a major step. You can now start looking for work that offers better weekly pay, more regular hours and a clear route to progress.

If you currently drive a van, work in a warehouse or have a shop job, your existing experience can help. Employers value people who are reliable, organised and used to dealing with customers, paperwork and time pressures.

What jobs can you apply for?

Your options will depend on your licence category, experience and the type of work you want. Common first roles include:

• Multi-drop deliveries to shops, businesses or homes
• Pallet deliveries using a tail lift and pallet truck
• Trunking between distribution centres
• Supermarket delivery work
• Tipper, skip or aggregate driving
• Class 2 work with local builders’ merchants
• Class 1 work after gaining some practical experience

Some employers offer paid induction training. This could include vehicle familiarisation, route planning, load security, delivery procedures and learning how to use a tachograph correctly.

As a newly qualified HGV driver, you may not start in your ideal role straight away. Taking a suitable first job can help you gain confidence, improve your driving record and make your next application stronger.

Where to look for HGV jobs after training

There are several ways to find vacancies.

Contact HGV agencies

HGV agencies can be useful when you are starting out. They work with transport firms and may know about temporary, permanent and ongoing positions. Register with more than one agency, explain your licence category and be honest about your experience.

Ask each agency:

• What type of work is available?
• Is the role temporary or permanent?
• What are the usual start and finish times?
• Is there handball or heavy lifting?
• How are breaks and overtime handled?
• What documents do they need from you?

Agency work can help you try different types of driving before choosing a long-term employer. Make sure you understand the pay, holiday arrangements and notice requirements before accepting work.

Apply directly to transport companies

Look at local haulage firms, supermarkets, builders’ merchants, waste companies and logistics businesses. Check their websites and contact their transport offices. A polite phone call can sometimes find work that has not been advertised widely.

Search online job boards using terms such as “Class 2 driver”, “newly qualified HGV driver”, “LGV driver” and “local delivery driver”. Read the full advert carefully, as some roles require previous experience or extra qualifications.

Prepare your application

Your CV does not need to be long. Include:

• Your licence categories and test dates
• Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, if applicable
• Digital tachograph card
• Previous driving and customer service experience
• Any warehouse, loading or delivery work
• Your availability and preferred work area

Mention transferable skills from your current job. Warehouse work can show that you understand loading and stock control. Van driving can demonstrate route planning and customer contact. Shop work can show reliability and communication skills.

Make a good first impression

Arrive early, wear suitable work clothing and bring your licence, CPC details and other requested documents. During an assessment, take your time and focus on safe, smooth driving. Employers are usually looking for care and consistency, not speed.

If you want advice about training or your next step, call 0800 820 3300 or visit /contact.