The Current HGV Driver Situation in the UK

The UK has an estimated shortfall of 90,000 HGV drivers, this shortage has caused widespread supply chain issues which has hit a range of sectors including food, drink, and medicines.

HGV driver shortages worsened after Brexit and Covid. EU workers leaving the UK following Brexit as well as during the pandemic. On top of this, there have also been tax changes that made it more expensive for drivers from elsewhere in Europe to work or be employed in the UK.

The Government’s Plan to Recruit More HGV Drivers

In response to the shortage, the government has proposed an action plan that will mean up to 50,000 more HGV driving tests will be made available each year. More tests, more qualified drivers, more HGV drivers on the road. 

HGV Driver Test Changes:  

• Car drivers no longer need to take a separate test to tow a trailer or caravan.This will allow up to 30,000 more HGV driver tests to be conducted every year.  

• HGV driving tests will be streamlined, meaning drivers will only need to take 1 test to drive both a rigid and articulated lorry, rather than having to take 2 separate tests. 
  This will make around 20,000 more HGV driving tests available every year 
   
• Drivers will be able to get a licence to drive an articulated vehicle without first getting one for a smaller vehicle. This will allow up to 20,000 more HGV driving tests available every year.

What This Means For New Drivers

The government’s changes to current tests means that more HGV driver tests will be available. More HGV driver tests means that more drivers can qualify for their HGV licence sooner.

The sooner you obtain your HGV driver’s licence the sooner Elite can find you suitable work and get you on the road

Elite, Your Go-To For HGV Driver Work

Have you ever considered switching careers to become a HGV driver? Now’s the time to take the leap as the demand for drivers has never been higher. 

Elite is a recruitment agency specialising in HGV drivers, we’re keen to support the UK supply chain with committed HGV drivers. We drive the right people to the right jobs and have made it easy for you to find suitable HGV agency work. You can quickly register your details online here or download our Elite app for regular work updates on the go.

Our team is happy to chat, if you’d like more information on becoming a HGV driver or HGV driver work you can contact Elite Employment via email at widnes@elite-employ.com or call 0151 420 1219.