Lorry driver

[slimjim]

Pie in the sky stuff, possibly. But when I get made redundant (soon), I may consider taking up lorry driving. My great uncle was a driver so its kind of 'in the blood'! But, what do I have to go through in terms of training, testing, experience to drive HGVs? Is it a tough world these days with tight margins? Is it best to be freelance or work for a company? Any other downsides?

[Lesisblue]

I have been driving lorries for 5 years, and I enjoy the job I do. In my experience, it is better to work for a company rather than an agency, because the work is guaranteed.

My training involved a week's tuition of 4 hours a day Monday to Thursday, with the test (which I was lucky enough to pass first time) on Friday.

I think I paid about �800 inc. VAT, but this will obviously have risen. This was enough to get my class 2 (rigid) licence. The company I work for paid for my Class 1 (artic) licence, on the understanding that I worked with them for at least 2 years. If I was to leave within this period I would have to repay a percentage of this fee.

New EU legislation demands that you work no more than 48 hours a week, so over-time work is now a thing of the past. This has an effect on what you can earn, so a job with good rates of basic pay is essential. There are companies that "bend the rules", but remember, it is your licence.

There are downsides, as in any job. However, I regard myself as a pretty easy-going sort of bloke, and seem to deal with these without too many problems.

1. It can be difficult to find that first job, as many companies like to take on drivers with a couple of year's experience (how do you get experience if you can't get a job)?

2. Unsocial hours. I have always been an early riser, so to me this problem does not exist.

3. Waiting. Part of a drivers' life involves waiting to be unloaded, so make sure you know where the best snack bars are!

4. Speed limits. Lorries have different maximum speed limits to cars (some car drivers don't realise this, and can become impatient).

On the whole, I can thoroughly recommend life as a HGV Driver. Lorry drivers are the best drivers on the road, and you find a camaraderie amongst you.

Good luck if you decide to take up lorry driving. I am sure, if you find the right people to work for, you will not regret it.

[becks]

My friend just did an intensive course so she could get her HGV licence (for her horsebox not a lorry!) she did an intensive course but i remember the test was one of the most expensive things - and if you don't pass first time it gets more and more expensive. She said the test was pretty hard as you have to know some of the engine stuff as well as just the driving although i think this may be part of the car driving test now. Good luck, i like driving, but think i'd be scared in a big truck!