If you’re an experienced HGV driver with at least 2–4 years on the road, the UK is offering you a chance to turn your skills into a stable, rewarding career. Most roles are full-time and hands-on, requiring drivers to be physically present across routes and depots.
Salaries typically range from £28,000 to £42,000 a year, with overtime and night shifts often paying extra. For many, this isn’t just a job it’s a secure path to building a new life in the UK.
Details:
- Location: United Kingdom
- Job Role: HGV Truck Driver
- Education: High School Diploma or equivalent
- Experience Required: 2–4 years preferred
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes (Skilled Worker Visa)
Top UK Employers Offering HGV Visa Sponsorship:
Several logistics and retail giants are hiring international drivers. These companies are known for sponsoring Skilled Worker visas:
- Tesco – One of the UK’s largest supermarket chains with nationwide distribution centres. View Tesco driver jobs
- DHL – Global logistics provider offering long-haul and regional driving roles. Explore DHL careers
- Wincanton – UK-based supply chain specialist with consistent driver demand.
- Eddie Stobart – Known for large-scale logistics and regional delivery.
- XPO Logistics – A major logistics operator sponsoring international HGV drivers.
Skills and Qualifications:
To work as an HGV driver in the UK, you’ll need both technical skills and personal attributes:
Essential Skills
- Focus & Concentration: Ability to drive safely for long hours in varying conditions.
- Flexibility: Willingness to work nights, weekends, or long-haul shifts.
- Mechanical Knowledge: Basic maintenance (oil checks, tyre pressure, minor repairs).
- Communication: Clear updates with managers and clients, accurate reporting of incidents.
- Organisation: Keeping logbooks, delivery records, and route schedules accurate.
Qualifications
- Full HGV Licence (Category C or C+E) – Covers rigid and articulated lorries.
- Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) – Mandatory in the UK.
- English Language Test (IELTS or equivalent) – Required for Skilled Worker Visa.
- Medical Fitness Certificate – Drivers must pass a medical exam.
- Clean Driving Record – Ideally no penalty points.
If you hold an international licence, you’ll need to convert it into a UK-recognised HGV licence before starting work.
Check Also: Maintenance Assistant Jobs in UK
Salary:
HGV driving offers stable and rewarding career prospects:
- Average annual salary: £28,000 – £42,000 (depending on experience, route type, and employer).
- Overtime pay: Common in logistics contracts, especially for night or weekend shifts.
- Visa sponsorship: Covered by the employer under the Skilled Worker route.
Benefits:
- Competitive Salary: £28,000–£42,000 annually, with overtime opportunities.
- Visa Sponsorship: Employer covers Skilled Worker visa costs.
- Paid Leave: Annual holidays and additional leave options.
- Pension Contributions: Secure your retirement with employer-backed plans.
- Health & Wellness Support: Medical insurance, wellbeing programs, and driver support schemes.
- Training & Career Growth: Ongoing training and promotion opportunities.
- Job Security: High demand ensures long-term stability in the logistics sector.
- Travel Opportunities: Experience different routes, cities, and regions while working.
Duties and Responsibilities:
HGV drivers in the UK are responsible for much more than just driving. Daily tasks may include:
- Conducting vehicle checks and basic maintenance.
- Safely loading, securing, and unloading cargo.
- Planning efficient delivery routes.
- Completing logbooks and delivery documentation.
- Following UK road safety laws and working time regulations.
- Communicating with transport managers and customers.
UK Work Visa for HGV Drivers:
To work legally in the UK, overseas truck drivers typically need a Skilled Worker visa. HGV drivers fall under the logistics and transport sector, which has seen significant demand due to supply chain gaps.
Key requirements include:
- A valid job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor visas.
- Proof of HGV driving license and relevant category (Class 1 or Class 2).
- Basic English language proficiency.
- Minimum salary threshold set by the UK government (can vary depending on the role and shortage status).
With the UK work visa for HGV drivers, applicants can usually stay for up to five years, with the possibility of renewal or settlement.
UK Shortage Occupation List:
Truck drivers have been highlighted on the UK shortage occupation list in recent years, making it easier for foreign workers to apply. Being on the shortage list means:
- Lower application fees.
- Reduced salary thresholds.
- Faster visa processing.
Sectors most affected include fuel transport, food delivery, and long-haul logistics, where the shortage of drivers has impacted supply chains. Employers actively recruit qualified drivers from abroad to meet demand.
Class 1 and Class 2 HGV Driver Jobs in UK:
Understanding the difference between Class 1 and Class 2 HGV driver jobs in the UK is crucial before applying:
- Class 1 HGV Drivers (Category C+E):
- Drive articulated lorries and long-haul trucks.
- Typically cover long-distance routes, including international deliveries.
- Higher salaries due to skill and responsibility levels.
- Class 2 HGV Drivers (Category C):
- Drive rigid trucks.
- Usually focus on local or regional deliveries.
- Suitable for those new to UK driving roles or seeking shorter routes.
Both categories offer stable career paths, but Class 1 jobs are in particularly high demand.
Why Consider HGV Driver Jobs in UK?
- Competitive pay with overtime opportunities.
- Strong job security due to driver shortages.
- Pathway to long-term residency through the Skilled Worker visa.
- Career progression from Class 2 to Class 1 licenses.
Application Roadmap:
- Research employers offering visa sponsorship (Tesco, DHL, Wincanton, etc.).
- Prepare your documents:
- Valid HGV licence (C or C+E)
- Driver CPC certificate
- English language proof
- Medical report
- Updated CV with driving experience
- Apply directly via company career portals or trusted recruitment agencies.
- Once hired, your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Use the CoS to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa through the UK Government website.
Pro tip: Tailor your CV to highlight safe driving history, international routes, and mechanical knowledge. This increases your chances of getting shortlisted.
Conclusion:
The UK is facing a major shortage of HGV drivers, creating opportunities for experienced international candidates through visa sponsorship. With competitive salaries, strong benefits, and stable career prospects, drivers can build secure futures while supporting the country’s supply chains. If you’re qualified and ready to relocate, now is the best time to apply and take advantage of this demand.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is there still a demand for HGV drivers in the UK?
Yes. The shortage remains one of the logistics industry’s biggest challenges, with demand highest during seasonal peaks like Christmas.
Do UK companies sponsor visas for HGV drivers?
Yes. Many logistics and retail companies sponsor Skilled Worker visas for foreign drivers to fill the labour gap.
How much can HGV drivers earn?
Most drivers earn between £28,000 and £42,000 annually, with overtime opportunities increasing total pay. Experienced long-haul drivers can earn more.
