Fast-track plan to boost HGV tests by 50,000

qualifYing as an HgV driver is to be made faster and easier to tackle a shortage of truckers that is crippling large parts of the economy.

Some elements of the lorry drivers’ test will be removed and others combined.

Car drivers will also no longer need to be tested on towing a trailer or caravan, which will create room in driving examination schedules for more HgV learners.

Transport Secretary grant Shapps said the changes were possible because Brexit meant the uK no longer had to follow Eu testing regulations, and would allow an extra 50,000 tests a year.

in future, drivers will only need to take one test to drive a rigid and an articulated lorry, rather than needing two.

Tests will also be made shorter by removing the reversing exercise, which will be conducted by a third party.

Mr Shapps said: ‘The shortage is a global problem, but we’ve been taking action to help industry leaders attract drivers. We’ve already delivered 50 per cent more tests than before the pandemic. Today’s measures will deliver up to 50,000 more a year, helping more people kick-start their career as a well-paid HgV driver.’

The news will trigger fears that heavy goods vehicle drivers, who control trucks of up to 44 tons, may become less safe.

But the Department for Transport said such concerns were unfounded, adding: ‘The standard of driving will not be affected, with road safety continuing to be of paramount importance. any driver who does not demonstrate utmost competence will not be granted a licence.’