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Frequently asked questions
This is a list of all the frequently asked questions currently on the website. Course specific FAQ's are available to view under the appropriate training course on our website.
Please see below a list of frequently asked questions, questions that we are often asked. Simply click the question of interest and the answer will be revealed.
Why get my HGV with EP Training?
There are many organisation out there that currently deliver HGV driver training. Literally 100’s of companies are vying for your money.
Gaining HGV entitlement is a serious investment in both time and money and due diligence MUST be undertaken when spending on such a big ticket item. Although small, Surrey based EP Training is regarded as one of the best training companies in the UK. They have been providing lorry driver training since 1981 and have successfully trained over 30,000 students. EP is continually investing in the best training equipment available to the industry with a fleet of over 20 modern, well maintained trucks. Train with EP and you will get to drive the best kit and be taught by the best instructors the industry has to offer.
They will assist and manage the entire HGV licence acquisition process from start to finish including medical, provisional licence application, theory tuition, theory and driving tests as well as Driver CPC.
Not only do they provide expert driver training. They can also assist you with gaining your ADR, Driver CPC, HIAB, PCV, FLT and Transport Manager qualifications. Once you start your career with EP you won’t want to go anywhere else.
Just type “EP Training Services Reviews” into Google and see why they have more 5 star reviews than ANY other HGV driving school in the UK.
How much do lorry drivers earn?
The remuneration potential for a HGV driver is well above the UK national average with many earning between £35,000 - £55,000 per year. This equally applies to class 2 (cat C) and class one (cat C+E) drivers alike. There are many sectors within the commercial transport industry meaning earning potential and job variation is huge. There has always been a demand for HGV drivers and never more so than now. With the UK leaving the EU it has resulted in many EU drivers returning to their countries of origin to live and work there. Also driving a truck for a living has always been perceived as a job of last resort. Not many young people leave school with ambitions to drive an 18 tonner.
As a result there are simply not enough people to drive enough trucks. When demand outstrips supply the cost of that commodity rises. Hence the huge increase in HGV drivers salary. The employment market for truck drivers is very buoyant. That includes newly qualified LGV drivers.
Yes there are some haulage operators that will require a minimum of 2 years’ experience before taking you on however there are also many consciences employers who are more interested in people with the right attitude and aptitude.
Below are some examples of what HGV drivers earn:
A “dust cart driver” employed by a local council will earn £35,000 a year working Monday to Friday 6am till 1.30 pm. In this instance there is a good work life balance with a fair income. A class 2 (cat C), and Driver CPC licence would be need.
A tipper or skip driver should expect to earn £40,000 a year. A class 2, Driver CPC and Digital Tachograph card is required to preform this role. This can be dirty and demanding work as the location could be a quarry or building site and you will be driving on uneven road surfaces.
A fuel tanker driver will earn up to £60,000 per year. In this instance they would have a class 1, cat C+E licence, ADR, PDP and Driver CPC card. They would also be required to work shift work, typically 4 on and 4 off. This would also include night shifts. A great salary but shift work is not for everyone.
What’s the process in getting an HGV Licence?
Before an HGV licence can be given a provisional HGV licence must be obtained via DVLA. To do this applicants must compete a medical which involves having your blood pressure taken and eyesight checked. It’s a simple undertaking and will only take 10-15 mins to complete.
The medical form and provisional application along with your driving licence in sent to DVLA and should come back within 2 weeks. Please note all provisional entitlement will be found online. It will not show any provisional HGV entitlement on your plastic driving licence.
Once the licence comes back from DVLA theory tests can be booked. If you don’t require Driver CPC then this will comprise of passing the multiple choice and hazard perception only. The Multiple Choice test is 100 questions and at least 85 must be answered correctly. The Hazard Perception test is exactly the same on that you sat for your car theory tests. Passing the Hazard Perception test is very easy as long as you do NOT click to early when you see the hazard occur.
Once theory tests have been taken and passed then the most challenging element of the process begins, i.e the driver training and testing. This is where you learn to drive a truck to the standard required to pass the DVSA driving tests. It’s really not easy but certainly achievable if you listen to your instructor and train with a reputable company, like EP!
Once the driving is passed there is the Driver CPC to finish of. If you did the CPC case study theory test then the Module 4, practical demonstration test has to be completed. This part is only 1 day and will be completed with EP Training at their centre in Bookham Surrey. EP is a DVSA approved Module 4 Testing centre.
How long does it take to get an HGV licence?
The diving part will take anything from 4-8 days depending on what type of HGV licence you want and your ability.
The cat C, rigid, class 2 driver training part will normally take 4 days with your driving tests booked throughout the course, whereas the class 1, artic, draw-bar is anything between 4 and 8 days depending on what you have driven before.
Overall gaining the LGV licence takes 8-12 weeks as there are other thing to pass beforehand. A medical and provisional must be obtained and theory tests must be studied and passed before you get behind the wheel and on the road.
Do I need Driver CPC?
If you are planning to be paid to drive an HGV after you pass the tests then you will probably need a Driver CPC Qualification Card (DQC). This will mean you will need to either complete 35 hours periodic training or pass the CPC Case Study theory and demonstration practical test. What type of Driver CPC you will need will depend on certain factors including when you passed your car driver test and what type of driver licence you currently possess. It can be bit tricky to work out so just call EP’s friendly staff who can advise and guide.
Should I do the Cat C or Cat C+E?
Cat C is a class 2, rigid type goods vehicle. Having this licence will allow the holder to drive any goods vehicle over 3.5 but no more than 32 tonnes. It’s called as rigid as the cab and body are permanently stuck together. A trailer may be towed however no more than 750 KG’s. It worth noting nearly three quarter of all HGV’s are rigids and the money is very comparable to C+E, class 1. Cat C+E is better known as an artic and permits the holder of this licence to drive all classes of heavy goods, including trailer entitlement. Cat C will also automatically be given, as well as BE and C1E.
Whichever option you choose EP’s staff will hold your hand every step of the way.
Will I train one-to-one or share?
If you train with EP you will share the driving with another student. This is far better than one-to-one tuition as you are out for the whole day as opposed to a few hours. Regardless of not sitting in the drivers seat you are still in a relevant learning environment and can pick up things of the other student whilst they drive. It is also important to have swap overs throughout the day as learning to drive a truck is tiring. Training times are typically 7.00 am till 3.00 pm except on test day.
Can I go straight to Class 1?
As of 15th November 2021 those wishing to gain the artic, class 1 driving licence may do so without the need of passing the class 2, rigid driving test.
This means you can go from car to class 1 in one simple process. It is still possible to complete the class 2 first and then progress to class 1, however why would you if you don’t need to? If you want to get an artic licence then go straight to class 1. EP Training has 8 modern, well maintained class 1 training vehicles and excellent, professional instructors that will teach you everything to need to know to pass your driving tests. Their CE courses are 4-8 days in duration depending on your experience. It is recommended you under a driver assessment to determine your ability and duration of course.
What’s involved in the medical?
Before provisional entitlement is given by the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) a medical must be taken. This can be carried out by your own doctor or anyone else equally qualified. There are many companies online that advertise HGV medicals across the UK. The cost for a medical can vary greatly from £50 to £150 so make sure you get value for money. If you sign up with EP they will arrange a medical for you at their Great Bookham training centre.
The medical assessment should take no more than 15-20 minutes and a D4 form must be completed by the Doctor. You will be asked questions about your health and must declare any medication you are currently being prescribed for. An eyesight check will be carried out so if you wear glasses or contacts make sure you bring them with you. The eyesight test is to ensure you meet the legal standard for driving either wearing or not wearing glasses.
Your blood pressure will also be measured and recorded. As long as your BP rate is less than 180 over 100 then you will pass that part of the process. If your readings are above 180 over 100 it is advisable you book an appointment with your own GP to seek medication to reduce this. Once lowered you can re-apply for provisional HGV.
How easy are the theory tests?
Theory tests are mandatory if you want to gain your HGV licence in the UK. The Multi Choice (MC) and Hazard Perception (HP) are independent theory tests that must be passed in order to take the practical driving tests (3A and 3B). They must be competed at a DVSA approved test centre. EP Training will book your theory tests for you.
Theory tuition and tests are an inconvenience and certain elements are questionable as to relevance and value in the relevance in regard to gaining an HGV licence.
For example everyone must pass the Hazard Perception (HP) theory test in order to gain HGV. This is exactly the same HP that all car drivers would have taken when gaining their cat B licence. The HGV HP does not reflect the real vision a lorry driver will experience as it is still conducted at a car level. Also in order to pass the HGV HP students must cheat by deliberately clicking for the hazard late as the test is designed for novice drivers and not experienced drivers.
Regardless they must all be passed and the only way to ensure success is to study appropriately. EP Training’s customers will be set up with an online theory tuition app which will give access to all the official questions you will to know. Our best advise when it comes to passing the theory test is this:
Module 1a MC. Complete 1 mock theory test every day from when you receive the app to the day of your theory test. 100 questions and get at least 85 correct.
Module 1a HP. In the test itself you will be shown 19 video clips with 20 scoarable hazards. 18 of those videos have just one hazard whereas the 19th (and it’s not in any particular order) has 2. The hazards are easy to identify however to ensure a pass make sure you delay your click when identifying when they occur. We suggest you count to two in your head before clicking.
What’s the difference between an HGV and LGV Driving Licence?
In short. Nothing. They mean the same thing when referring to truck licences. HGV is an abbreviation for Heavy Goods Vehicle and LGV is an acronym for Large Goods Vehicles. HGV is the old terminology used when describing a lorry and it is still widely used today for road signs etc.
What time and days of the week is training available?
Training takes place between the hours of 7am and 3.30pm Monday through to Friday at both our Great Bookham and Addlestone facilities. Practical tests take place at the end of the week, either Friday or Saturday.
Where will I do my training and how long should I expect it to last?
You training will take place at either our Great Bookham or Addlestone facilities. You can choose which location you’d prefer ahead of your training. Additionally we have access to a large off-road training area where you’ll practice manoeuvres in preparation for your practical driving exam.
Your instructors will ensure you’ve had plenty of experience driving the various test routes in and around the Guildford area while out on the road.
The entire HGV licence acquisition takes on average around 8 weeks to complete. That’s from applying for the medical to completing your final exam. You can expect your practical driving training to last for five days.
Is the course(s) difficult, what should I expect?
Like any practical and theoretical course that’s geared for a new career, an HGV course is both intensive and challenging. It’s specifically designed that way so that you can be armed with the skills and knowledge you’re likely to need during your professional driving vocation.
EP Training is one of the most reputable companies in the UK and we’ve been helping students pass with ease and confidence for 35 years. We’re good at what we do and our fully qualified, DSA approved instructors will guide you through every step of your training.
Can I pass my test in less than 5 days?
Depending on your previous driving experience it can be done, although most of our students opt for the full five days training package in order to receive ample time to train, practice and ask our instructors plenty of questions ahead of the examination.
I have a full driving license. Why do I need to apply for a provisional lorry license?
Your current, full driving licence will only cover you for category B entitlement and, depending on when you passed your driving test, C1 and D1 entitlement. For that reason you will need to apply for provisional category C entitlement to be added to your licence while you’re learning to drive an HGV.
What payment methods do EP Training accept?
We accept cash, cheques, BACS payments and most major credit and debit cards. We also accept payment via PayPal and UTP.
Additionally, finance is available for our practical LGV courses. We’ve teamed up with licensed credit provider, DEKO to offer our students a 12months, 9% credit option. Finance can be easily arranged by completing the form and credit agreement at checkout. An instant decision will be given.
Contact us if you’d like more information on our finance package.
Is the theory test included in the training?
Yes is it. The theoretical element of your course comes under modules 1 and 2 of your Initial Driver CPC training. Module 1 is the theory and hazard perception test. You’ll be familiar with the format if you’ve previously completed a theory test for your car licence. You’ll have to answer a series of multiple choice questions and then watch video clips and point out the various hazards as they occur.
Module 2 is the case study. You’ll be given 7 different scenarios and you’ll be expected to answer up to eight multiple choice questions for each scenario.
I’m interested in obtaining my HGV/LGV license. What benefits are there for obtaining my license, how much could I earn, what are the potentials?
Once you’ve qualified as a professional HGV driver it doesn’t stop there. There are many career options you can consider once you’ve got category C or C+E entitlement under your belt. For example, you may want to look into the options of transporting dangerous goods or driving an HGV fitted with a crane, all of which require additional training. You could even move on to become an owner operator, subject to an Operator CPC course being completed.
An HGV driver can expect to earn up to £30,000. Like many professionals, the more qualified and experienced you are, the greater the salary. Once qualified, it’s certainly worth looking into extracurricular courses such as ADR or lorry loader training.
The UK is currently in the middle of a serious HGV driver shortage due to an ageing workforce. This shortage is expected to continue for at least the next five years as more drivers reach retirement age.
The demand for category C and C+E drivers continues to grow every year. EP Training has joined forces with London’s largest independent haulier, ELB Partners, to guarantee you a job interview after successfully passing your exams. ELB Partners, like many hauliers, are actively seeking to expand their workforce. Furthermore if you work for ELB Partners for 12 months, your training fees will be reimbursed.
What is required from me before I can start training?
Before you can begin your training proper, there are a number of formalities that need to be completed, all of which we can help you achieve at no extra cost.
First of all, you need to apply for and pass a medical assessment which we can organise this on your behalf. We arrange for a local GP to visit you at our premises to undertake a series of basic medical checks to confirm you’re fit enough and healthy enough to start your career as a professional HGV driver.
After you’ve passed your medical you will need apply for provisional category C entitlement; in other words a provisional HGV licence. Again, we can help you complete your forms prior to sending to the DVLA.
How many people are in the cab whilst training?
All of our HGV training is carried out on a two-to-one basis. Please contact us if you require any further clarification on our practical training arrangements.
What is an ADR Licence?
An ADR Licence allows the holder to transport dangerous goods by road. ADR is an internationally recognised qualification and is recognised by many drivers that transport dangerous goods by road.
How do I get an ADR Licence?
You obtain an ADR License by completing a course and passing a series of examinations. You will do exams based on the classes of dangerous goods you will transport.
How easy are the ADR exams?
The difficulty of the exams usually depends on how well the candidate is able to understand the content. EP's highly experienced ADR instructor will set you up with the best possible chance of passing the exams.The majority of candidates pass every module. EP's ADR exams are generally most challenging by candidates whose first language is not English.
How much do EP's ADR courses cost?
A C1 course, which includes the tanker, will cost £700. This will cover every module of ADR apart from Explosives - Class 1 and Radioactives - Class 7.
A P1 course or another ADR course with specific ADR classes will not include the tanker and will cost £600. Once again, this does not include Class 1 and Class 7.
Class 1 and Class 7 courses can be booked seperately for £280 each.
How long will the ADR licence last?
After 5 years you will need to return to a training company such as EP for refresher training and examinations in order to continue carrying dangerous goods.
Can I get CPC whilst completing ADR?
Yes, if a candidate would like CPC included, and they have completed Intitial CPC, attendance of the C1 course can entitle a candate with 28 hours Drivers CPC. A P1 course or another ADR course with specific Classes can entitle a candidate with 21 hours Driver CPC.
If you require more hours of CPC after the course, individual online 7 hours Drivers CPC courses are available to book free of charge.
When will I get my ADR Exam Results?
EP Training is one of the few training companies that use online based examinations, meaning that the results come through immediately after you have finished each exam. You simply need to ask a member of staff after you have finished the exams and they will tell you the result.
Can I do the ADR course online?
This is possible, however EP Training strongly reccomend attending the course in person as ADR courses are relatively intensive courses that are best understood in a classroom environment.
Where will I complete the ADR course and exams?
The ADR training and examinations are completed entirely at our training centre in Great Bookham. You will complete an online based exam on one of EP Training's laptops.
Do I need an HGV licence to get an ADR licence?
You do not need to have an HGV licence to have an ADR licence. An ADR licence just means you can carry dangerous goods by road, so having only a car licence or even a motorcycle licence would be enough.
What is Driver CPC?
Driver CPC stands for Driver Certificate of Professional Competence. It is an EU Directive introduced for HGV’s on September 10th 2009. Although the UK has left the EU Driver CPC.
https://www.gov.uk/driver-cpc-training
Still applies to new and existing professional lorry drivers operating HGV’s within the England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Are there Driver CPC Exemptions?
The basic rule of thumb is if you are being paid a wage to drive a truck over 3.5 tonnes then you will need Driver CPC. That includes C1 (7.5 tonnes), Cat C (class 2, rigid) and C+E (class 1, artic., wag and drag) type vehicles.
Driver CPC Exemptions
There are exemptions and not everyone needs Driver CPC. For example, Emergency services, armed forces and fitters taking a vehicle for annual test, road testing or collection for PMI etc are not required to attain this qualification.Another exemption are those who are using that vehicle to carry plant, materials, equipment, tools etc to “site or place of work” and are using those items carried on that goods vehicle to carry out their main duties, i.e. not that of a truck driver.
A prime example used in this instance would be scaffolders, tree surgeons and builders. We strongly advise you Google “Driver CPC exemptions”, visit the .Gov website and decide for yourself if you need it or not. The onus will be on you and your company to prove you do not need a DQC.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/driver-cpc-exemptions-examples
How do I get a Driver CPC Card?
The Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is the government agency responsible for recording and issuing your DQC.
Depending on the way you attain your DQC (Initial or Periodic) will determine when you have completed your Driver CPC. If you are completing periodic Driver CPC then your DQC will be sent to your home address upon completing your 35 hours. If you are required to obtain Initial Driver CPC then your DQC will be issued upon passing your Module 4 demonstration test and be valid for 5 years.
Can I Complete my Driver CPC Training Online?
If you are undertaking (and eligible to complete the 35 hours route) periodic Driver CPC then yes this can be done online from home. EP Training runs Driver CPC every Monday to Friday every other week of the year. They have a wide variety of courses to suit your specific needs including, Drivers Hours and Record Keeping, Walk Round Checks, Safety of Vehicle and Loads, Customer Care, ADR, HIAB, First Aid etc.
https://www.eptraining.co.uk/driver-cpc-training
Does Driver CPC have Exams?
Periodic Driver CPC (35 hours) has no examinations whatsoever and attendance is the only mandatory requirement. Once your 35 hours have been completed and uploaded onto the Government R&E system your DQC will automatically be issued by the DVLA to your home address.
The Initial Driver CPC does have 2 exams. The case study (Module 2) theory test and the Module 4 practical CPC demonstration test (Module 4). Once both tests have been passed a DQC will be issued and will last for 5 years. EP is a DVSA approved examination centre for Module 4 testing. This means you train and test in one day with them at Great Bookham in Surrey.
Is Driver CPC Going Away?
The short answer is no. Any transport regulation encompassing road safety, i.e. Driver CPC will not be removed from UK legislation. Big changes in the HGV licence acquisition process since November 2021 meant less regulation for new entrants wishing to gain class 1. There was an opportunity to also remove Driver CPC training however the fact it was not revoked is a big signal that it won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.
How Much Does Driver CPC Training Cost?
Costs can vary depending on whether your training is completed online or in the classroom. With the cost of living crisis it is essential you get value for money. This also applies to Driver CPC training. The chance to complete Driver CPC online is undoubtable the most economic and efficient way to get the DQC. There is no travelling involved as you can complete training from home and the cost is substantially cheaper than undertaking classroom tuition. EP delivers online Driver CPC training most days of the year and have a reputation that is second to none.
What type of Driver CPC Do I Need?
There are actually 2 types of Drivers CPC and it is very important you do the correct one otherwise you are wasting both time and money. Most people and companies think that Driver CPC periodic training is what every HGV driver (over 3.5 tonnes) needs to complete. But that is not correct.
To be eligible for Periodic CPC you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
· You already had or have a DQC.
· You got your HGV licence (cat C) before 10.09.2009
· You obtained your car driving licence pre 01.01.1999 and intend to driver a C1 professionally
If none of the above requirements are met you will need to pass the Initial CPC, otherwise known as Modules 2 and 4.
Initial CPC is a theoretical examination (Module 2) and a practical test (not driving), Module 4. Its very straight forward. Please view our video on YouTube for more info
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eA9sc0sSEMc&t=13s or call EP who will assist, guide and arrange everything for you.
What is a Transport Manager Qualification?
Better known as a TM CPC, The Transport Manager Certificate of Professional Competence) is a qualification that confirms the holder has demonstrated a thorough understanding and knowledge of commercial transport operations. This relates to commercial vehicles over 3.5 tonnes GVW (UK) or 2.5 Tonnes for international movements.
Do I Need The Transport Manager Qualification?
If you intend to provide commercial transport operations and haul other people’s goods, then you will require a standard operator licence (O licence). It is a legal requirement to appoint a TM CPC as part of the operator licencing application. If you will only move your own goods for commercial purposes, then a restricted O licence is needed and in this instance a TM CPC may NOT be appointed. However, it is still recommended the person responsible for day to day running of the vehicles knows how to carry out their duties.
How do I Study for My Transport Manager CPC?
There are various options as to how you can prepare for the examinations, which are held every 3 months. It takes a while to study, sit the test, and receive the examination results (up to 8 weeks).
To obtain a TM CPC qualification, you will need to familiarise yourself with the course syllabus as well as pass 2 examinations. The subject matter relates to activities concerning competently running a company that uses commercial vehicles to transport their goods or other people’s goods.
The options to study are currently online, home study book or classroom. EP was one of the first in the UK to offer home study and intensive course tuition for those wishing to gain the TM CPC.
They do NOT provide online tuition for the TM CPC as in their opinion the lesson is too intense to risk attending this course over the net. They recommend you attend the 9-10 day course run from their Great Bookham Training Location every 12 weeks.
What Exams Do I Need to Pass?
To get the National and International TM CPC (the National on its own is no longer possible) 2 tests must be sat and passed. A Multiple Choice and Case Study is what must be taken. The good news is the Case Study is open book meaning you can take whatever supporting written material into the exam. EP is a Skills and Education approved exam centre, so you complete the course and exams with them. The core subject’s syllabus includes drivers’ hours and record keeping, vehicle maintenance, the operator licencing scheme and financial competence. There are also other areas such as ADR, abnormal loads, vehicles, types, construction and use regulations etc. You do NOT have to been involved in commercial transport operations before to pass the exams.
Are the Transport manager CPC Exams Difficult?
The tests are not easy and you MUST know your subject matter to gain success. If only 1 of the 2 exams are passed, then only the failed element needs to be re-sat. Upon passing both tests a TM CPC certificate will be issued. This qualification is the equivalent to an NVQ level 3 or an O level examination. To get the best result we recommend you attend the classroom course.
I Have an Operator CPC qualification, do I need Driver CPC?
The Transport Manager CPC is NOT the same as the Driver CPC qualification. They are different and should be treated as such. The TM CPC is for the company (owner driver, external or internal TM) whereas the Driver CPC is specifically for the driver. Having one qualification does NOT exempt the need to obtain the other. For example, if you are an “owner operator” who moves other people’s goods you will require both a TM CPC and Driver CPC qualification.
How Long Does This Qualification Last?
Once a TM CPC qualification has been gained it is technically valid for life. Current exams are not required to be renewed every, for example, 5 years. Your CPC qualification may be taken away if you neglect to perform your required legal duties as an employed TM for an operator. The Transport Commissioner (TC) and other agencies encourage Continual Professional Development (CPD) regarding CPC holders. In light of this, CPC holders are encouraged to attend TM refresher courses (2 days) at least every 5 years. The idea is to keep up to date with every changing legislation within the commercial transport industry. EP provides expert tuition on TM 2-day refresher and 1 day Operator Licence Awareness Training (OLAT) training.
What is an Operator’s Licence?
An Operator’s Licence, also own as an O licence is what is legally required by businesses that “operate”, in the UK and use goods vehicles in excess of 3.5 tonnes Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).
The O Licence requires operators to adhere to certain obligations including Drivers Hours, Defects and preventing vehicle overloading. Failure to comply could result in an O licence being revoked. For many no O licence means no business. Therefore, adhering to the conditions of the O licence is vital in ensuring a transport company continues to operate and exist.What is a Restricted Operator Licence?
If you wish to move your own goods and not those belonging to other people and businesses, then a restricted operator licence is needed, and no TM CPC may be appointed. Whether you apply for a restricted or standard Operator licence the rules and regulations are the same.
Why Train With EP Training?
EP has been delivering Operator CPC tuition for freight vehicles since the O licence came into fruition in the early 1980’s. Since then, literally thousands of students have trained with EP and successfully passed the TM CPC examinations. There are many companies within the UK that offer the TM CPC training course and choosing the right provider is essential in ensuring you attain that qualification.
EP has one of the best reputations in the industry when it comes to Operator CPC training. Their instructors have a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Whether it’s home study, classroom, refresher, or consultancy, you simply can’t go wrong with EP!
Does EP Training provide training for car drivers?
Unfortuantly EP does not currently provide training for car drivers. The lightest vehicle weight EP provides training for is 7.5 tonne.
Does EP provide HIAB training with a range of attachments?
EP does provide HIAB training for the popular hook and remote attachment which can be completed on the training grounds used by EP. Other types of attachment EP can provide training for, but the training will need to be delivered in company only as EP does not currently have equipment for other attahments.
Is there finance options available with EP Training?
Many of the courses on the EP website that can be booked offers the option to pay monthly installments using PayPal. EP Training currently does not work with another finance provider.
How does the online Driver CPC Training with EP work?
Upon booking the course, EP Training will send a confirmation and an invoice for the training.
The advantage of online training is that the course can be delivered from the comfort of home without any need to travel. An email address will also need to be provided so EP can send the link for the training to the candidate. The link is usually sent the previous day before the training (unless the training is on a Monday, then the link will be sent the previous Friday).
The course will be delivered using Microsoft Teams. This means you will need a device with a camera and microphone (almost any smartphone, tablet or computer). When using a computer, the link for Microsoft Teams can be opened in the web browser without any need to download an app. When using some deivices though such as an iPhone, there may be a requirement to download the Microsoft Teams app.
The training can be completed at EP's training centre in Great Bookham, Leatherhead using their laptop if preferred.
The hours will usually be uploaded within 24 hours after each course finishes. An attendance certificate will be sent to confirm the attendance and upload of hours.
Does EP Training have multiple training locations around the country?
EP Training only tests and trains around the Guildford area in Surrey. Their offfice is located in Great Bookham, near Leatherhead which is around half an hour away from Guildford.
HGV training providers do not usually provide training in more than one area.
If you have spoken to another company who claims to be an HGV training company and they claim to have multiple training locations with offices around the country, then they are most likely a broker and not a company providing training themselves.
When starting out, should I get a Class 2 Rigid licence or go straight to the Class 1 Articulated vehicle?
It is now possible to go straight to learning to drive an articulated vehicle after having not driven anything bigger than a car and EP does provide this option. Upon passing in a Class 1 vehicle the driver also is able to drive a Class 2 vehicle.
However this is not something EP Training would reccomend. This is because going straight to Class 1 from a car is usually very challenging no matter how many years experience a driver has driving cars and this is often not fully realised until the driver sits down in the vehicle for the first time. For this reason EP's Car to Class 1 course is 8 days instead of 4 or 5 to be able to get better understanding of the size difference.
A lot of companies would encourage you to go straight to Class 1 from a car but this is usually because a Class 1 course costs more than a Class 2 course.
In terms of salary there is little difference between driving Class 1 and Class 2 as an HGV driver. The demand for HGV drivers is not neccessarily for driving Class 1 vehicles and there should be no problem finding work as a Class 2 driver. Companies generally would also feel happier employing somebody who has acquired a Class 2 licence rather than someone who has little to no HGV experience and has recently aquired a Class 1 licence.
What EP would usually reccomend to somebody looking to become an HGV driver for the first time is to acquire the Class 2 licence and spend a few years as a Class 2 driver to gain some experience. After a few years of experience, if the driver would like to drive Class 1 then the training company, EP at least, can provide a course shorter than 8 days to be able to gain the Class 1 licence. This should be an easier way to obtain an HGV Class 1 licence and the price difference overall, with EP at least, is about the same as going straight to Class 1 from a car.
Are EP Training's HGV training vehicles manual or automatic?
All of EP's HGV training vehicles are automatic. This is because when passing in an automatic HGV vehicle, as long as the driver has a manual car licence, the driver is entitled to drive manual HGV vehicles as well. EP therefore chooses to have their training vehicles as automatic because automatic vehicles are usually easier to drive and learn in than manual.
If you only have an automatic car licence you can still learn and pass in one of EP's automatic HGV vehicles. The difference is you will only be able to drive automatic HGV vehicles.
Is EP Training a safe company to invest money in?
EP Training has been providing on-road HGV training for over 40 years. They have also been providing CPC and ADR as well as other types of training for many years as well. They are a safe company and are 5 stars on both TrustPilot and Google with over 4000 5-star reviews. EP is not an HGV training broker and does not work with HGV training brokers. They have become one of the highest regarded HGV Training companies in the UK.
Who is the best HGV Training company in Surrey?
With over 40 years experience providing on-road HGV training and five stars across thousands of reviews on both TrustPilot and Google, everything seems to point to EP Training Services Ltd being considered the best HGV Training company in Surrey. With well maintained lorries, experienced instructors, competitive prices, friendly staff, and a positive overall attitude it is difficult to go wrong with EP Training.
Does EP Training provide Forklift training?
EP does provide forklift training for up to four people at a time in company grounds only as EP does not have the equipment themselves to train with. The price per day is £425 + VAT + Travel fees. To book Forklift Training with EP, please call the office number on 01372450800
As you can see above, we have a wide variety of training options available meaning you can source everything you need in one place. What are you waiting for? Give us a call today on 01372 450800 or complete our short enquiry form.