If you want to become a professional HGV driver, then odds are you’ve been looking into some training and maybe even researching what you need to do to get the HGV driver training license. If you have, then you know just how much there is to learn, and more importantly how many different tests you need to pass before you get your Driver CPC or your Class 2 license. But even though there are lots of sections involved, the testing is essentially split into 2 parts – theory and practical. We’ve talked a lot in the past about the theory part, so today we wanted to share with you some of our top tips for passing the practical test.
We know there is a lot to remember when it comes to driving an HGV, let alone when you’re trying to pass the licence test. During the course of your training you will be taught all of the basics from scratch – and they will be drilled into you so much they will become second nature. But like anything that becomes second nature, we can become lazy, so it’s always worth brushing up on your basic skills, like checking your controls before driving and adjusting your mirrors. They are small things but can make a big impression on your tester.
No one performs at their best when they’re hungry, tired or agitated. Your physical health is just as important as your mental health in the run up to your HGV driver test, so make sure you’re taking care of it. Try to stick to a healthy diet, and keep up your exercise regime so you’re in peak physical health. Also try to get a few good night’s sleep in the run up to the test, so you know you’re fully refreshed and ready to go.
Being comfortable is key to passing any test – especially a driving one. If you’re distracted by uncomfortable clothes, you’re not going to perform as well. During training, you will have been taught the sorts of things that are appropriate to wear as a driver, and that’s what you should be wearing during your test. As long as they are clean and comfortable, your tester isn’t going to mind!
Distractions kill on the road – and they’re the last thing you need when you’re trying to focus on a test. Turn the phone off and leave it behind, along with any other distracting items – electrical or otherwise. This way you can stay focused on the test and give it your best effort.
Just like everything in life, the HGV driver licence test is much easier if you’re well prepared for it. So brush up on your highway code, read up on everything you need to do to pass, and get as much practical driving time in as you can. Familiarise yourself with what you will be asked to do, and take a few trips around your testing area so you know what to expect. If you go in prepared, you’re much less likely to be nervous and more likely to succeed.
And finally? Practice, practice, practice those tricky manoeuvres. Your training will have drummed how to do manoeuvres into you by now, but it doesn’t hurt to practice until you are completely confident. You will be tested on reversing, accelerating and parking, so make sure you get plenty of practice doing this is all sorts of environments so that you’re at your best.
At The HGV Training Centre, we don’t just assume you know all of these things. Instead, we work closely with you to ensure you feel as prepared as possible for both your theory and practical tests. If you would like to find out more, just get in touch with the team today.
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