How to Become a Professional Lorry or Bus Driver

Have a look at our Driver Training page and decide whether you’d like to drive large goods vehicles (LGV) or passenger carrying vehicles (PCV - buses). Then, check the back of your driving licence to see if you already have any entitlements: If you passed before 1 January 1997 you will likely already have C1, D1, B+E, C1+E and D1+E entitlements. 

If you have a car (cat B) entitlement, you can begin your driving career with either a C1, C, C+E, D1 or D course. If you’re not sure what category to choose, that’s okay, our team of experts are here to help you

Get in touch with us using the enquiry form or give your nearest GTG Training centre a call. We’ll assign you a dedicated account manager who will assist you every step of the way in starting your new career – from booking your first course to passing your test and beyond. 

Your account manager will arrange a suitable time for you to have a medical examination by our doctor. If you pass, we’ll help you complete the application for your provisional licence. This will be sent off to the DVLA and returned to your home address, which can take up to three weeks.

While you’re waiting for your provisional licence to be returned, you can start studying for your theory test. We’ll give you a login to access online study materials to complete whenever it suits you. 

Let your account manager know as soon as your licence is returned, then we can book your theory tests. There’s a multiple-choice section with 100 questions – you need to get 85 correct answers to pass. The hazard perception section consists of 19 clips and the pass mark is 67 out of 100. 

Depending on the existing entitlements on your licence, you may need to complete the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) initial qualification which consists of a case study test and practical assessment. Your account manager will be able to advise on this. 

Everything mentioned so far is included in the initial starter pack, which is £234.20, or £278.80 if you need to sit the CPC case study test. 

*With DCPC if passed car test after 1997.

**Without DCPC if passed car test before 1997.

Resit for 3a Off Road Manoeuvring Exercise - £40.00

We’ll arrange a driving assessment where our instructor will assess your driving ability and recommend the length of driving course you’ll need to get ready for your test. Your account manager can let you know the courses and dates that are available.

Your driver training will be conducted on a two-to-one basis with one of our experienced instructors. When it comes to taking your test, the time will be determined by the DVSA’s availability. 

If you need to complete the CPC practical assessment, this can be done during your driver training. Regardless of previous entitlements, all professional drivers must complete 35 hours of CPC training every five years, so speak to your account manager about the courses we offer at GTG for the future. 

If you pass all of your assessments – congratulations! You’re now qualified to become a professional driver.

Next step: job hunting. At GTG, we also work closely with many businesses that offer driver vacancies, so your account manager can help make an introduction if you want to get your career off to a flying start.