When it comes to obtaining the HGV licence that will allow you to get the job of your dreams, it is worthwhile noting that the process can be quite in depth as the powers-that-be firstly need to know that you are fit enough and capable enough to be able to drive a heavy goods vehicle. As many people know, it can be one of the most rewarding jobs out there, but at the same time it can also be very demanding as well as exhausting, so checks and tests have to be implemented to make sure you are fit enough to take on the job before any application process can be reviewed.

All in all, the process (gaining a licence) averages around ten weeks (although every individual application is different) and will start with a medical and end with a practical test. First and foremost, you need to make sure you currently hold a driving licence and are 21 years of age or more - if you don't meet the criteria for these two, there is no point in proceeding -however, if you are eligible, you can then get the ball rolling with regards to the proper application process by picking up an application form from the DVLA. After you have done this, the next hurdle in the sequence is the medical.

Before you can get into the driving side of the application, you need to prove that you are physically capable of driving a truck. This can be done by seeing your own doctor who can carry out the test and fill in the relevant paperwork on your behalf (which is classed as the D4 form). Be warned however - this can be quite an expensive part of the application process and has been known in some instances to cost between £130- £150, although £100 seems to be the average price. There are however, some places that will do the medical cheaper and these avenues are always worth exploring if you want to keep the costs down as much as possible.

If you pass your medical, the application process will then start to move along nicely and you will then be required to fill out the D2 form which will form part of your application. You need to be sure however that you know what kind of licence you wish to hold as there are many differing aspects to the HGV licence. Most people that are starting out in the trucking world will apply for a provisional category C licence which is for over 7.5 tonnes - however there is also the C1 and the C1+E which have different requirements - so make sure you know the difference. Once this application form is completed however, alongside the medical, you should then send off the information to the DVLA as well as documentation that proves your identity. If you're not exactly sure what evidence they need to see however, the application forms will tell you the relevant information that they require.

After you have done this, you will then receive your provisional driving licence from the DVLA (which should take a few weeks) which will then give you the green light to move onto the next step of the process which includes a theory test. The theory test comprises a few different modules and like the original driving theory test, features a multiple choice section as well as Hazard Perception (which will show your assertion and competency throughout various scenarios.) 

The HGV theory test is very similar to that of the car theory test in format however, so there is nothing new for you to worry about as it shouldn't throw up any unusual problems. Typically, if you pass the theory test, the next step will be to take a practical test -and in terms of process, it is also very similar to that of the car test with manoeuvres, safety, and how you handle the vehicle all being analysed in a lot more detail and on a larger scale.

It has to be said however; getting a HGV licence is generally a lot more difficult than obtaining a car licence as the vehicles handle completely different and the standard of driving has to be at its optimum level. Similarly, unlike a car practical test that is often over in less than an hour, the practical aspect for a HGV can take around ninety minutes and is a lot more rigorous as there are many more safety related questions that will be asked throughout the duration too such as; weights and safe loads.

Away from the technical side however, despite all the preparation you have to do and all the aforementioned information you have to take into consideration, gaining your HGV licence will prove to be one of the best things you will ever do. It will give you pride, pleasure and self-confidence and will also open up many avenues in terms of employment opportunities and job satisfaction. It really is worthwhile.