Advanced Driving License – What It Is and How to Get It

If you already hold a standard HGV or passenger licence, you might have heard about an advanced driving licence. It’s not a magic ticket, but it does open doors to higher‑pay jobs, specialist vehicle types, and more respect on the road. In simple terms, an advanced licence shows you’ve mastered extra skills beyond the basic test – things like night driving, heavy vehicle handling, or specific cargo requirements.

Why bother? Many logistics firms pay a premium for drivers who can operate larger trucks, double‑cabs, or vehicles with advanced safety tech. Having the licence on your CV also signals professionalism, making you a preferred choice for recruiters. Plus, the extra training often improves safety, which benefits you, your employer, and everyone else on the road.

Who Needs an Advanced Driving Licence?

Not every driver needs the upgrade. Generally, you’ll consider it if you:

• Drive Class 1 HGVs (rigid or articulated) and want to handle longer, heavier loads.
• Work in sectors like construction, waste management, or hazardous materials where specialised training is mandatory.
• Plan to move from a standard licence to a professional role that commands higher wages.
• Want to add endorsements for night driving, trailer coupling, or advanced vehicle control.

If any of these sound like you, the advanced licence is worth the time and money. It’s also useful for drivers who already have a Class 2 or 3 licence and want to step up to Class 1.

Steps to Apply and Pass the Test

Getting the advanced licence follows a clear path. First, check that you already hold the necessary base licence – usually a Class 1 HGV licence. Next, sign up for an approved training course. These courses focus on the extra skills the test will cover, such as:

• Advanced vehicle inspection and fault diagnosis.
• Night-time manoeuvring and reflective signalling.
• Driving with heavy loads on steep gradients.
• Using electronic stability control and other safety aids.

Training typically lasts 5‑7 days of classroom work plus several on‑road sessions. Many schools offer flexible schedules, so you can mix work and study. After training, you’ll book the practical test through the DVSA. The test is longer than a standard HGV test and includes a theory component on the extra endorsements you’ll have.

On the day of the test, bring your current licence, a valid medical certificate, and any paperwork your training provider gave you. The examiner will watch you perform specific manoeuvres, assess your ability to handle the vehicle at night, and check your knowledge of safety regulations.

Pass the test, and you’ll receive a new licence with the advanced endorsement printed on it. Keep the endorsement up to date by renewing your medical certificate annually and staying aware of any changes in UK driving law.

To boost your chances, treat the practical test like a real job. Arrive early, do a quick vehicle walk‑around, and run through a mental checklist of the key steps. Practice the exact routes the examiner might use, especially any tricky hill climbs or tight bends.

Finally, remember that the advanced licence isn’t a one‑time thing. Many drivers upgrade again later to add more endorsements, like passenger transport or hazardous material handling. Keeping your skills fresh not only helps you stay employable but also makes every journey safer.

So, if you’re ready to earn more, drive bigger trucks, and stand out in the HGV world, the advanced driving licence is the next logical step. Start by finding a local approved training centre, check the costs, and plan your study schedule. The road to a higher‑paying driving career is just a few lessons away.