Whether you’re working towards your first HGV licence or moving up to a higher category, your CV can be the key to landing a well-paid driving job. In an industry where demand is high but standards are too, a well-written CV helps you stand out for all the right reasons.
Start strong with a clean structure
Your CV should open with the basics: full name, phone number, email, and your general location (postcode or town is fine). Next, include a short professional summary—this is your chance to give a quick snapshot of who you are. For example:
“Reliable Class 1 HGV driver with 5 years’ long-haul experience across the UK, CPC-certified and fully focused on safety and punctuality.”
Clearly list your licences and training
This section is crucial. Be specific about the classes you hold—Cat C, Cat C+E, C1, D1, ADR, CPC Module 4, etc.—and include dates and any endorsements. Employers want to know you’re fully qualified and up to date.
Detail your driving experience (most recent first)
List previous roles in reverse order, with job title, employer, and employment dates. Under each, use bullet points to highlight what you did and what you achieved. Don’t just say “HGV driver”—show the scope of your work:
• Delivered goods across the UK using 44-tonne artic lorries
• Completed over 500 fault-free journeys per year
• Regularly passed DVSA roadside inspections with zero advisories
• Logged tachograph data and followed rest break regulations precisely
Showcase safety, professionalism, and people skills
Driving’s not just about what happens behind the wheel. Employers also want drivers who are:
• Meticulous with vehicle checks
• Up-to-speed with load safety and road law
• Friendly and professional at delivery points
• Confident using telematics or fleet systems if required
Include all relevant training and extras
Got First Aid training? Know your way around hazardous goods handling or HIAB cranes? Add it! Anything that could give you an edge—especially if it’s directly linked to the job—is worth a mention.
Tailor your CV for the job you’re applying for
Different roles have different priorities. Long-distance hauliers want to see experience with overnight runs and motorways. Minibus operators will care more about passenger comfort and urban driving. Highlight the experience that’s most relevant to the job you want.
Keep your formatting simple
Use black text on a white background with a clean, readable font (like Arial or Calibri, size 11 or 12). Stick to clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting. Save the final version as a PDF to ensure it looks good on any device.
Proofread it like a professional
Spelling and grammar matter. Watch out for typos like “Cat CE” instead of “Cat C+E” and check dates carefully. You might even want to read it out loud to spot awkward phrasing.
Add a short, friendly cover note
A short paragraph to introduce yourself can go a long way, especially if you’re applying via email. Try something like:
“As a newly qualified HGV driver trained with 123HGV, I’m eager to begin a career with a company that values safety, reliability, and a strong work ethic. I’m ready to hit the ground running—literally!”
Final checklist before you send:
✅ All contact info clearly listed
✅ Licences and expiry dates included
✅ Bullet points show real experience
✅ Training and compliance details included
✅ File saved as a PDF
✅ No longer than two A4 pages
Still training? Make sure to mention your provider and upcoming test date—especially if you’re training with us at 123HGV, where every successful trainee gets a guaranteed job interview. Good luck!