Course Duration: How Long Does HGV Driver Training Really Take?

If you're thinking about becoming a Class 1 HGV driver, the first question on your mind is probably "how long will the training take?" The answer isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all, but you can shape a realistic timeline by looking at the main parts of the programme and the things that speed it up or slow it down.

Typical HGV Course Lengths

Most full‑time HGV courses in the UK run between three and six weeks. A basic classroom package covering theory, road safety, and vehicle mechanics is usually two to three days. After that, you’ll spend around 30‑40 driving hours on the road, which often spreads over four to five weeks if you’re doing a full‑time schedule.

Part‑time options stretch the same amount of content over a longer period – typically 8‑12 weeks – allowing you to work or study alongside the training. Some schools also offer intensive “boot‑camp” formats that cram all driving hours into a single week, but these are demanding and not ideal for everyone.

When you add the mandatory CBT (Certificate of Professional Competence) modules, you’re looking at roughly 140‑160 total hours of instruction and practice. Most learners finish the required hours and sit the theory test within a month, then move on to the practical test a few weeks later.

What Affects How Long It Takes?

Several factors can push your course duration shorter or longer. Your prior experience matters – if you already hold a standard car licence and have some heavy‑vehicle exposure, you’ll pick up the skills faster. Conversely, total beginners may need extra time on basics like gear changes and vehicle handling.

Instructor availability and the school’s schedule also play a role. Popular schools often have waiting lists for the practical sessions, so you might need to book a later slot. Weather can be a wild card too; rain or snow may delay on‑road training days.

Personal commitment is another big one. Consistently attending lessons, completing homework, and practising on a simulator will keep you on track. Skipping sessions or taking long breaks will stretch the timeline and may even require you to retake parts of the theory.

Finally, the speed of your theory test results can affect the overall timeline. Some candidates get their results within 24‑48 hours, while others wait a week or more, which delays moving onto the practical test.

Bottom line: a typical full‑time HGV course wraps up in about six weeks, but part‑time routes, personal experience, and external factors can shift that window.

Plan ahead, pick a school with flexible scheduling, and stay consistent with your practice. Doing so gives you the best chance of finishing on time and hitting the road with confidence.