Government Funding and Schemes
HGV Skills Bootcamps
Skills Bootcamps offer free HGV driver training to eligible adults in England. These intensive short courses are designed to quickly prepare people for roles in logistics. If you are over 19 years old and meet certain criteria, such as being unemployed or changing careers, you may qualify.
Jobcentre Plus Support
If you are unemployed and claiming benefits, speak to your Work Coach. The Jobcentre may offer funding or help cover your HGV licence and training costs through schemes that support people back into work.
Employer Sponsorship and Apprenticeships
HGV Driver Apprenticeships
Many logistics companies offer apprenticeships that include full HGV training and licence acquisition. These apprenticeships provide a salary while you train and build experience.
Company Sponsorship Schemes
With the ongoing driver shortage, some employers are willing to pay for your HGV training in return for a commitment to work for them for a set period after you qualify.
Loans and Finance Options
Personal Loans or Training Finance
Some training providers offer finance packages, allowing you to spread the cost of your course over monthly installments. Make sure to review the terms carefully, including interest rates and repayment conditions.
Career Development Loans (No Longer Available)
Note that Professional and Career Development Loans, which were once an option, were discontinued in 2019. Be cautious of outdated advice referencing this funding source.
Military Resettlement Funding
Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC)
For those leaving the Armed Forces, the Enhanced Learning Credits scheme can help cover the costs of HGV training. Many veterans successfully transition into commercial driving using this funding.
Conclusion
While HGV training requires an investment, you do not have to fund it entirely yourself. From government-backed schemes to employer sponsorships and finance plans, there are plenty of ways to reduce the financial burden. If you are serious about becoming an HGV driver but worried about how much a hgv license costs, research your eligibility and speak to reputable training providers about available support.
If you need help finding the right funding route, our team at Commercial Transport Training is here to guide you every step of the way. Give us a call today or fill out our easy contact form and see how we can help to get you on the road.