Passing your HGV driving test is a great feeling, but taking the next steps can feel frustrating. You might notice that most employers are looking for people with a proven track record, leaving you wondering how to get experience as an HGV driver in the first place.

You need experience to get a job, but you need a job to gain experience. Fortunately, the logistics and utilities sectors need more HGV drivers, and there are clear steps you can take to bridge the gap between your new licence and a successful career.

In this guide, the Lanes careers team explains how new drivers can find their way in the job market and find an employer who supports their career development and progression.

Is it hard to get your first HGV job?

Many new drivers find that opportunities are limited at the start of their career. The main reason for this barrier generally comes down to liability as many companies' insurance policies do not cover a newly qualified HGV driver, especially those under 21 or without at least 12 months of driving experience.

While this presents a challenge, it's not impossible. Due to a significant driver shortage in the UK, many logistics companies and utility providers are more willing than ever to take on a newly qualified driver and invest in their training.

How do new HGV drivers get jobs?

Since some employers have insurance requirements that make it difficult to take on newly qualified HGV drivers, it is important to focus on roles that are open to new entrants and allow you to build experience safely. New drivers can often improve their prospects by starting in entry-level roles that provide training, supervision and a pathway into the industry. 

Start with van driving and class 2 roles

Instead of aiming for the largest lorries straight away, consider van driving jobs to build your road sense and delivery experience. From there, you can move up to Class 2 (Class C) roles. These rigid vehicle jobs are often in high demand and seen as less risky by insurers, which helps you build confidence before progressing to larger C+E vehicles.

Consider temporary and agency work

Temporary and agency HGV driving roles are an effective way to gain experience quickly. Agency work allows you to log crucial driving hours, work for different companies, and build a network of industry contacts. Many agency drivers are eventually offered permanent roles once they have proven their reliability.

Try driving tipper trucks

Entry-level roles like those working with tipper trucks are often recommended for new drivers as they build technical skills. Tipper work frequently involves shorter, repetitive routes that give you the chance to focus on handling the vehicle safely without the pressure of long-haul deadlines.

Exploring different driving career paths

When people think of a lorry driver, they usually imagine long-distance haulage, keeping goods moving across the country. However, driving is just one part of the job in many sectors. If you want an active, varied job that gets you away from the depot, you might want to look at the utilities industry.

What do jet vac operators do?

At Lanes Group, we employ drivers for highly specialised roles. Our jet vac operators drive large HGV vehicles to client sites, but that's just the start. Our team gets directly involved in operating advanced drainage equipment to solve drainage issues for commercial and domestic clients.

As a qualified HGV jet vac operator, your day-to-day responsibilities include:

• Driving a Class 2 heavy goods vehicle to domestic and commercial properties
• Setting up and operating high-pressure water jetting equipment
• Clearing blockages and maintaining drainage systems
• Liaising with customers and explaining the work being carried out

This versatility provides a highly active working environment, consistent work, and the chance to solve practical problems every day. You can learn more about the range of HGV roles we offer on our drivers page.

How Lanes Group supports your career

We know that finding an employer willing to invest in your future makes all the difference. Lanes Group focuses heavily on training and long-term development for every driver. Our driver apprenticeship scheme allows individuals to receive driver training and gain valuable experience that leads to an HGV role after qualification.

At Lanes, we regularly support team members to upgrade their skills with regular training. We offer a variety of different shift patterns, and provide a stable career with an inclusive workplace culture.

Alongside training, we provide our team with:

• A modern, well-maintained fleet of vehicles and equipment.
• A supportive environment where your safety comes first.
• Clear pathways to progress your career over time.

You can read more about what we offer by looking at our rewards and benefits page.

Start your driving journey today

Finding experience as an HGV driver might seem complicated at your first job, but with the right training, a positive attitude and a willingness to gain road experience in entry-level roles, you can soon build a successful career. If you are a new HGV driver ready to take the next step and find a supportive employer who values your potential, explore our current drainage jobs at Lanes Group today.

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