Thinking about becoming an HGV driver but worried you don’t know where to start? We’re here to make the process simple and stress free, teaching you how to get a lorry licence with no experience.
Every week we receive calls from potential students asking “I’ve never done anything like this before - can I even do it?” - the answer is yes! You don’t need industry experience, haulage knowledge or a background in logistics - you just need to be motivated and eager to learn!
9 simple steps on how to get a lorry licence without experience
Step 1 - Check you’re eligible
Basic requirements to begin
All you need to start training is:
- A valid UK car licence
- To be at least 18 years old
That’s it in terms of how to get a lorry licence – no prior job history, machine tickets or professional driving experience required.
Step 2 - Book your medical
What the HGV medical involves
All drivers need a CPC/HGV medical to show they are fit to drive professionally. At Lifft we make this hassle free by including it in your starter pack.
Step 3 – Apply for Your Provisional Licence
Support with application forms
Once your medical is complete, you’ll apply for a provisional HGV licence and we’ll guide you through the forms so nothing gets missed.
Step 4 - Prepare for your theory tests
Online learning and classroom support
Just like your car licence, in terms of how to get a lorry licence, you’ll need to pass your theory and hazard perception.
Tools to help you learn from scratch
When you train with Lifft you get:
- Online learning access
- Classroom support
- Revision tools
- A friendly team that genuinely wants to see you succeed
No experience? No problem - we teach you from the ground up, so you can get a lorry licence without any experience.
Step 5 - Train in real vehicles
Skills you’ll learn behind the wheel
This is where it gets exciting - you’ll spend time driving modern HGVs with supportive instructors and highly qualified instructors to help you get your lorry licence.
Some of the skills you’ll learn are:
- Vehicle checks
- Reversing and manoeuvring
- Coupling/uncoupling
- Road driving
- Safety and professional standards
Supportive and highly qualified instructors
Everyone starts somewhere – and we’re with you every step of your journey.
Step 6 - Take your practical tests
What to expect in your 3A and 3B tests
We make this simple for you - your 3A (manoeuvres) and 3B (road test) are included within your course package.
Retests, pass protection and stress-free training
Some of our bundles also include retests and pass protection, meaning you can focus on your training and leave us to sort the rest!
Step 7 - Complete your Driver CPC
Why CPC is essential for professional driving
To drive professionally, you’ll need your initial CPC qualification.
In-house testing for a smoother process
With our bundles, this step is built in and includes in-house Module 4 testing, so you don’t need to search around or book extra courses - we handle everything for you in terms of how to get your lorry licence.
Step 8 - Choose the path that suits you
Class 2 vs Class 1 explained
Some people start with Class 2 (rigid) then progress to Class 1 (artic).
Fast-track training from car to artic
Others choose our fast-track option and go straight from a car to artic licence, if you’re unsure, our friendly team will advise you on what option would suit you best.
Step 9 - Get support into employment
Job prep, confidence and real-world insight
Training gets you your licence but job preparation helps you use it.
Instructors with genuine industry experience
We provide:
- job preparation
- industry insight
- supportive advice
All our instructors have first-hand industry experience ranging from military, bus drivers, petrol tankers and everything in between, so we guarantee your interests will be covered somewhere.
You don’t need experience to get a lorry licence - just a starting point
Training designed for beginners
This industry is built on training and your journey to get a lorry licence starts with taking the first step.
Finance, bundles and full support from Lifft
At Lifft we make it easier to get a lorry licence through:
- modern fleet vehicles
- expert instructors
- fast-track pathways
- 0% APR finance options
- bundle courses with everything included
If you want to change your career, driving could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for - your licence and your future could be just weeks away and we’re here to help you get there - explore our courses or call our friendly team on 0330 633 4466 to get started.