Any person who wishes to become a part of a fleet company will require the proper training. Some facilities may hire drivers and help pay for training; however, most companies right now want to hire trained drivers. The market for drivers is very small right now, which means most fleet companies can hire already trained drivers to help save money. They are looking for specific qualifications when hiring a driver. It is important that you or anyone you know who desires driver training have at least HGV and CPC certifications.
HGV training is the beginning of the requirement. HGV drivers are trained for either a Class 1 or 2 licence. A Class 1 licence is for articulated vehicles, meaning there is a tractor trailer setup. The cab of the vehicle will unhitch from the trailer making it easy to switch loads. Driving such a vehicle tends to be more of a challenge and usually offers better pay. Any driver who desires to go about in articulated vehicles weighted for 3.5 tonnes or more will have to have the Class 1.
All drivers are also required to have CPC training. This mandatory training states one must have the CPC training and then renew it every five years. There is a total of 35 hours of training one needs to take. CPC training is a Driver’s Certificate of Professional Competence. It is both for existing drivers, new drivers, and PCV drivers. PCV drivers or bus/ minibus drivers also need to have the CPC training.
A new driver or existing driver can take their training further with ADR training. ADR training is meant for the carrying of dangerous goods by road. It is a licence on top of the HGV licence and CPC. Those with ADR training are able to get the better paying positions. It is because these drivers often handle hazardous or other dangerous goods, putting their life at higher risk for danger should something go wrong.
One can always seek ADR training after HGV and CPC training has been completed. One does not have to complete the additional training to get a job, but sometimes it does help. It will certainly open up more job prospects for the driver, who desires to earn more. It is up to you to decide what training you can afford or which to afford during your driving career when it comes to Class 1, 2, or ADR.