Thinking about getting your HGV licence? One of the first questions most people ask is: how much does an HGV licence cost? The total HGV licence cost UK ranges from around £1,500 to £3,000+ depending on the licence category, training provider, and your location. In this guide, we break down every cost involved — from the medical to the practical test — so you know exactly what to budget for in 2026.
HGV Licence Cost: Quick Summary
Here is a complete breakdown of the typical HGV licence cost in the UK for 2026:
| Item | Category C (Rigid) | Category C+E (Artic) |
|---|---|---|
| D4 Medical (HGV Medical) | From £49.99 | From £49.99 |
| DVLA Provisional Application | £43 (online) | £43 (online) |
| HGV Theory Test | £26 | £26 |
| HGV Hazard Perception | £11 | £11 |
| Driver CPC Case Studies | £23 | £23 |
| HGV Practical Test | £115 (weekday) | £115 (weekday) |
| Driver Training | £1,000 – £2,000 | £1,500 – £2,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | £1,268 – £2,268 | £1,768 – £2,768 |
HGV Medical Cost
Before you can apply for your HGV provisional licence, you need to pass a D4 medical examination. This is a mandatory health check that confirms you meet the DVLA’s Group 2 medical standards for driving large vehicles.
The HGV medical cost varies widely across the UK:
- GP surgery: £80 – £150+ (often with long waiting times)
- Private clinics: £50 – £120
- Simply Medicals: From just £49.99 — with appointments available within 24 hours at over 30 locations
At Simply Medicals, we offer the most affordable HGV medicals in the UK. All examinations are carried out by GMC-registered doctors, and you can book online in minutes. Book your HGV medical here.
DVLA Provisional HGV Licence Application
Once you have your completed D4 medical form, you need to apply to the DVLA for a provisional HGV licence. This costs £43 online or £58 by post. You will need your completed D4 form, a passport-style photo (for postal applications), and your current driving licence number.
The DVLA typically processes online applications within 1-3 weeks. Postal applications can take up to 4 weeks.
HGV Theory Test Cost
The HGV theory test actually consists of three separate parts:
- Multiple choice test — £26 (100 questions, 85% pass mark)
- Hazard perception test — £11 (19 video clips)
- Driver CPC case studies — £23 (required for professional drivers)
The total theory test cost is £60. You must pass all three parts before you can book your practical test. The multiple choice and hazard perception can be taken on the same day, but the CPC case studies must be booked separately.
HGV Training Cost
Training is the biggest part of the HGV licence cost. Most training providers offer intensive courses that take between 1 and 2 weeks:
- Category C (rigid HGV): £1,000 – £2,000 for 5-7 days of training
- Category C+E (articulated HGV): £1,500 – £2,500 for 7-10 days of training
- Combined C and C+E: £2,500 – £4,000 for the complete package
Prices vary significantly by location, with London and the South East generally being more expensive. Some training schools offer payment plans to help spread the cost.
HGV Practical Test Cost
The HGV practical driving test costs £115 on a weekday or £141 on evenings, weekends, and bank holidays. The test includes a vehicle safety check, reversing exercise, and approximately 60 minutes of on-road driving. Most training courses include the test fee in their package price, so check with your training provider.
How to Get a HGV Licence for Free
There are several ways to reduce or eliminate the HGV licence cost:
Government-Funded Training
The UK government has been running HGV driver training schemes to address the driver shortage. Check the GOV.UK website for current funding options, as these programmes are updated regularly.
Employer-Funded Training
Many haulage companies and logistics firms will pay for your HGV licence in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a set period (usually 12-24 months). This is one of the most common ways drivers get their HGV licence for free. Companies like Royal Mail, DHL, and Amazon have all run driver recruitment schemes.
Armed Forces
If you are serving or have served in the military, you may already hold HGV entitlement or be eligible for subsidised training through the Career Transition Partnership (CTP).
Job Centre / Skills Bootcamps
If you are unemployed, your local Job Centre may be able to fund HGV training through skills bootcamps or the Adult Education Budget. These opportunities vary by region and availability.
HGV Licence Categories Explained
There are several categories of HGV licence, each allowing you to drive different vehicle types:
- Category C1 — Vehicles 3.5 to 7.5 tonnes (ambulances, large vans, motorhomes)
- Category C — Rigid vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with no weight limit
- Category C+E — Articulated lorries (tractor unit + trailer)
- Category C1+E — C1 vehicles towing a trailer (combined up to 12 tonnes)
Most professional HGV drivers go for either Category C (rigid) or Category C+E (artic), as these open up the most job opportunities.
Is Getting Your HGV Licence Worth It?
Absolutely. HGV drivers are in high demand across the UK, with average salaries ranging from £30,000 to £45,000 per year — and experienced drivers earning £50,000+. The investment of £1,500 to £3,000 typically pays for itself within the first few months of employment.
Start with Your HGV Medical
The first step to getting your HGV licence is passing your D4 medical. At Simply Medicals, we offer HGV medicals from just £49.99 — the most affordable in the UK. With 30+ clinics across England and appointments within 24 hours, we make the process quick and easy.
Book your HGV medical online now or call 0808 188 9112.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an HGV licence cost in the UK?
The total cost ranges from £1,500 to £3,000 depending on the category. This includes the medical (from £49.99), provisional licence (£43), theory test (£26), and practical training and test.
Can I get my HGV licence for free?
Yes. Many employers fund HGV training for new drivers, and government-backed schemes occasionally offer free or subsidised training. Check with local haulage companies and the DWP for current opportunities.
How long does it take to get an HGV licence?
Typically 6 to 12 weeks from start to finish, including the medical, provisional application, theory test, and practical training and test.
Do I need a medical for an HGV licence?
Yes. A D4 medical examination is required before you can apply for your provisional HGV entitlement. The medical must be carried out by a registered doctor.