HGV Regulations: What Every UK Truck Driver Must Know

Driving a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) in the UK comes with a set of rules that keep the roads safe and protect your business. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been behind the wheel for years, knowing the core regulations saves time, money, and trouble.

Key Licensing Requirements

The first step is getting the right licence. A Class 1 licence lets you drive the biggest trucks, but you can’t just apply for it straight away. You’ll need a provisional licence, pass a medical exam, and complete the CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) training. The CPC covers topics like road safety, fuel efficiency, and how to handle emergencies.

Once you hold a Class 1 licence, you’ll have to renew it every five years. The medical check is part of that renewal, so keep your health records up to date. If you ever lose points on your licence, a short‑term disqualification can follow, so drive clean and avoid avoidable infractions.

Vehicle and Road Safety Rules

Every HGV must meet strict standards before it hits the road. Weight limits are the most obvious – exceed them, and you risk fines or a stop‑on‑reach order. Braking systems need to be inspected yearly, and tachographs (digital or analogue) must record your driving hours accurately.

Speaking of hours, the UK follows EU‑wide rules on driver fatigue. You can drive a maximum of 9 hours a day (or 10 hours twice a week) and must take a 45‑minute break after 4.5 hours of driving. The weekly limit sits at 56 hours, with a two‑week total cap of 90 hours. Failure to log hours correctly can lead to heavy penalties, so keep your tachograph up to date.

Emissions rules are tightening too. Low‑Emission Zones (LEZ) in cities like London now charge extra for older diesel trucks that don’t meet Euro 6 standards. If your HGV is older, consider retrofitting filters or planning routes that avoid these zones.

Regular vehicle inspections are mandatory. An annual MOT for HGVs covers brakes, lights, suspension, and more. Keep a copy of the MOT certificate in the cab – inspectors will ask for it during spot checks.

Finally, load security can’t be ignored. The Load Securing Regulations require you to tie down cargo using proper restraints, check the weight distribution, and ensure the load doesn’t shift while driving. A poorly secured load can cause accidents and result in hefty fines.

Staying on top of HGV regulations might feel like a lot, but treat it as part of your daily routine. Set reminders for licence renewals, schedule regular vehicle checks, and use a reliable tachograph app to track hours. When rules change – like the recent updates to the CPC training modules – check official sources such as the DVSA website for the latest guidance.

Ready to hit the road with confidence? Keep these rules handy, stay vigilant, and you’ll avoid the common pitfalls that trip up many drivers. Safe driving!