If you are looking for a job that’s a little different than working the average 9-5 then driving a lorry could be something for you to consider. Becoming a Lorry Driver may seem pretty daunting to start of with, however, once you know the ins and outs it’s actually relatively simple. If you’re considering becoming a lorry driver full time and need more information on how to go about it, then look no further! We’ve got all the information you’ll need on How To Become A Lorry Driver right here..
how to become a lorry driver
What do you need to become a lorry driver?
You must be over and have a clean driving license before you can apply to be a lorry driver, you will also be required to pass a medical test to work as an LGV (large goods vehicle) driver. Having a driver’s license is pretty obvious, however, it is not just a regular license that you will require. To become a lorry driver you will first need to get an LGV license in categories C, this will require you to apply for the provisional entitlements on your licence followed by a theory test and hazard perception test. These two tests are the difference to the test you had when learning to drive a car, so you must get up to date on the highway code – there are plenty of books available and https://www.gov.uk/adding-higher-categories-to-your-driving-licence websites to help you. Providing you pass the theory aspect of the test you will then undergo a practical test, this will ensure you can drive a lorry safety which is of course a bit harder than a car. The test will require you to demonstrate different manoeuvres such as doing an s-shaped reverse into a bay! Learning to drive a lorry provides training and there are lots of ways that you can learn. Do your research and keep a look out for the best deal as some courses can be pretty pricey!
What can you expect from becoming a lorry driver?
Surprisingly there will be a lot of driving involved so you must enjoy driving and you need to be a good driver and feel comfortable behind the wheel, however, there is more to the job! You will also be required to do quite a bit of loading and unloading off your lorry so fitness is also pretty important. You need to be prepared for spending a lot of time on your own so if you like your own company that’s great if not you can always stick some of your favourite radio stations on for the journey. If you enjoy life on the open road and don’t like the confinements of being stuck in the office then driving a lorry could be something you’d really enjoy. Remember, you will have to work unsociable hours and may have to structure your day to suit your job. Lorry drivers usually earn on average around £17,000 per year, this is a basic salary however if you wish to earn more money there are higher paid positions that will require you to carry chemicals and fuel. Experienced drivers can earn up to £35,000 per year and there are opportunities to progress. As a lorry driver you will expected to work on average around 48 hours per week. You will more than likely work for a manufacturer, distributor or a road haulage firm. Long distance drivers may have to sleep in the cab of the lorry don’t worry though all lorries will be kitted out with sleeping arrangements. The more experience you get the bigger the opportunities there are, you’ll eventually drive bigger loads further distances.
Getting a Tachograph for your vehicle
Once you have got your license and have been awarded you LGV License (Category C) you are legally qualified to drive, once you’ve been assigned a vehicle you will also be supplied with a tachograph – most lorries already have them fitted. There are both digital and analogue tachographs, the difference being the digital tachograph uses smart cards instead of record sheets. As a lorry driver, you must have a driver card that can be used to insert into digital tachographs this will track your hours of driving, breaks and rest periods. Part of your job role is to ensure that your tachograph is working correctly, each card has a capacity of 28 days so you will need to ensure that you have a replacement card every month.
Why do you need a Tachograph?
Legally all new goods vehicles weighing over 3.5 tonnes must be fitted with a digital tachograph, this law was put into action in May 2006 so if your planning on driving a lorry then you certainly will need one. Tachographs allow operators to have better control over drivers hours and more importantly ensure that drivers are driving safely by having the right amount of rest time and frequent breaks. Drivers should not be driving for longer than 4.5 hours without a break. This is the law when driving in the EU, however, the rules will depend on the types of vehicle you’re driving and which country you’re driving in. The main EU rules require you to record all of your driving on a Tachograph. You must not drive for more than 9 hours a day per day or 56 hours per week. Check the EU drivers hours https://www.gov.uk/drivers-hours website for more information on the rules regarding hours and breaks. This will give drivers easier and better control of driving hours, you can apply for a digital smart card through the DVLA. Your smart card will hold all of your daily work information, it is your responsibility to replace it if it gets lost or stolen and renew it when it expires.
