Professional Driver Training in Sussex
Get qualified to drive professionally across the UK with LGV, PCV, HIAB and forklift training - all delivered locally by Sussex Driver Training.
Licence Types We Offer
We deliver comprehensive training and support for a wide range of vehicle categories.
LGV Class CE (Up to 44T Artic)
Ideal for those looking to drive articulated lorries - perfect for careers in logistics and long distance haulage.
LGV Class C (Up to 32T Rigid)
Covers large rigid vehicles, commonly used for local/regional deliveries, refuse collection and construction transport.
LGV Class C1 (Up to 7.5T)
Great for driving medium goods vehicles such as ambulances, delivery vans and service vehicles.
LGV Class C1+E (Up to 7.5T with Trailer)
Allows you to tow a trailer with a C1 vehicle - often used by tradespeople, utilities and mobile services.
PCV Class D1 (Minibus)
Gives you the licence to drive minibuses with 9-16 seats - ideal for schools, charities and private hire.
PCV Class D1+E (Minibus with Trailer)
Perfect if you need to tow equipment or luggage behind a minibus for group travel or specialist services.
LMC (Lorry Mounted Crane)
Covers safe operation of HIAB and lorry-mounted cranes - essential for construction, utilities and logistics roles.
FLT (Forklift Truck)
Train to operate forklift machinery confidently - a must for warehouse, yard and on site operations.
B+E (Car & Trailer Training)
Designed for car licence holders who want to gain confidence towing a trailer – ideal for beginners or new caravan owners.
The Process of Earning Your New Licence
Getting qualified as a professional driver in the UK involves a few important steps. If you're pursuing an LGV or PCV licence, we’ll guide you through the process from start to finish.
Step 1: Apply for Your Provisional Licence
(LGV & PCV Only)
Before practical driver training, you’ll need to apply for your provisional. This involves:
- Completing a D2 licence application form
- Attending a driver medical and completing the D4 form (£50-£60)
- Sending both forms to the DVLA in Swansea
Please note: Your provisional licence can take up to three weeks to arrive, so it's best to get this completed. Forklift and HIAB training do not require a provisional licence, but you must hold a valid car licence.
Step 2: Pass Your Theory Tests
(LGV & PCV Only)
Once your provisional licence arrives, you’ll need to pass the following tests:
- Module 1a: Multiple‑Choice Theory Test
- Module 1b: Hazard Perception Test
- And for professional drivers (and those aged 18-21): Module 2 CPC Case Study Test
You can take all of these at DVSA theory test centres. All parts of Module 1 (£37) and Module 2 (£23) can be taken at the same centre location, each separately booked through DVSA. For details on your closest centre, use the official Find a Theory Test Centre service.
Step 3: Book Your Assessment Drive & Training With Us
When your paperwork and theory tests are complete, it’s time to begin practical training. Make a booking online or call us on 01273 413316
For LGV and PCV, we’ll start with a short assessment drive to recommend the right number of training days for your experience level.
For HIAB and Forklift training, no assessment is required - we’ll book you straight into a course that meets your needs.
Both HIAB and Forklift training can be delivered on site at your workplace, subject to suitability.
Step 4: Take Your Practical Test
Once you have successfully completed your LGV or PCV training, you’ll complete these tests with us:
- Module 3: Practical Driving Test
- Module 4: CPC Practical Demonstration (for professional drivers & drivers aged 18-21)
For HIAB and Forklift courses, you'll complete practical training and a short theory component, followed by an assessment. On successful completion, you’ll receive your operator certificate and ID card.
Once you've passed, you're ready to start your journey as a qualified driver - fully licensed and confident behind the wheel!
Licence Acquisition FAQs
Find answers to your questions about the licensing process here.
To apply for your provisional LGV or PCV licence, you'll need both forms. You can order the D2 pack directly from the DVLA for free. It usually arrives within a week.
Order your D2/D4 pack here
You can book this through your GP, but many drivers find it quicker and more convenient to use a private provider, who specialise in driver medicals.
Find a local medical clinic here
The medical uses the D4 form, which has sections your examining doctor or medical professional will fill out during your appointment. Once your medical is complete, post the D4 form along with your D2 application to the DVLA.
If you’ve already passed parts of the process, like your theory test or CPC Module 2 -you won’t need to redo them, as long as they’re still valid. Theory and Module 2 results are valid for 2 years, so you’ll need to complete your practical test before they expire.
If you're upgrading from a Category C to a C+E licence, you’ll need to retake the theory and hazard perception tests, even if you’ve been driving Category C for some time. Let us know what you’ve completed, and we’ll send you a training plan that fits your situation.
If you're planning to drive professionally - whether it’s a lorry, bus or minibus, you’ll need to complete Driver CPC training. This includes Module 2 (Case Studies) and Module 4 (Practical Demonstration), which apply to all new LGV and PCV drivers, including those aged 18 to 21.
Once you’ve passed both, you’ll receive a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) - which you’re legally required to carry when driving professionally. Failing to hold a valid CPC card when required can lead to a fine of up to £1,000.
If you're getting an LGV or PCV licence for personal use only, such as driving a motorhome, horsebox, or private minibus, then you only need to complete Modules 1 and 3, regardless of age. If in doubt, we’re more than happy to advise for your situation.
Training times can vary depending on the licence you're going for and your previous experience. Here's a general guide to what you can expect:
- Cat C (Rigid Lorry):
Around 7 days of training and test for new drivers. - Cat C+E (Articulated Lorry):
Around 5-6 days of training and test if you already hold a Cat C licence.
(Note: You'll need to retake your hazard perception and theory before upgrading from C to C+E.) - Going from a Car Licence (Cat B) straight to Cat C or C+E:
Expect 8-10 days of training, depending on your confidence and driving background. - Cat C1 or D1 (7.5T or Minibus):
Typically a 4-day driving course and test. - Module 4 CPC (Practical Demonstration):
Includes half a day of training and the test usually takes half a day.
Training is delivered in focused 4-hour blocks, either morning or afternoon, and is aimed at preparing you to pass the practical test confidently.
If you're unsure how much training you'll need, we recommend booking an assessment drive - this helps us tailor your course to suit your current skill level.
We handle almost every part of the process here at Sussex Driver Training. Once you've got your provisional licence and passed your theory tests, all of your practical training, CPC Module 4 preparation and driving tests are arranged and completed with us.
We also offer on site training for businesses or individuals who need HIAB/Lorry-Mounted Crane or Forklift certification at their own location (subject to suitability).
While the medical and theory tests (Modules 1 & 2) take place at DVSA-approved centres, we’ll help guide you through those steps too - including booking support and revision advice.
Training costs vary depending on the licence type, how much support you need and whether you require Driver CPC modules. As a general guide, most LGV courses start from around £1,500, with full packages including training, test fees, and CPC add ons available.
We recommend booking an assessment drive so we can tailor a package to suit your needs and experience level. Get in touch today for a personalised plan.
Start Your Driving Journey Today
Join our expert-led courses and gain the skills needed for your HGV or PCV licence.
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