Driving Goods Vehicles

In consultation with the road haulage and distribution industry, and awarding body partners, RHDTC has developed National and Scottish Vocational Qualifications at two levels for drivers of goods vehicles.

The Level 2 Qualification is for goods vehicle drivers who can show the minimum level of occupational competence required for a goods vehicle driver. This competence is more than that required by the relevant statutory driving test, as it requires driving skills to be shown whilst driving a goods vehicle that is laden with the candidate's typical load. The qualification also includes related competencies in pre-driving checks (including the use of tachographs) and monitoring the loading of goods. While driving the vehicle, candidates are required to drive safely and with reasonable fuel efficiency, and with acceptable wear and tear on the vehicle. Additional units give candidates the opportunity to show competence in unloading goods vehicles, and coupling and uncoupling goods vehicles if these form part of their job role.

The Level 3 Qualification is for drivers who can show broader driving competencies and be considered as professional goods vehicle drivers. This qualification therefore builds on the level 2 qualification. Again, the qualification requires driving skills to be shown whilst driving a goods vehicle that is laden with the candidate's typical load. Successful candidates at this level are expected to drive goods vehicles safely, within the levels of fuel efficiency and wear and tear on the vehicle expected of an experienced driver. Optional units give candidates the opportunity to show competence in other areas; obtaining information about the collection and delivery of loads, planning routes and timings, loading vehicles, coupling and coupling vehicles.

Candidates at either level are encouraged to achieve as many units against which they can demonstrate competence, not just the minimum number of units required for a full award.

Individuals can work towards either qualification whilst developing the knowledge and skills required for the relevant Large Goods Vehicle driving test and licence. It is not necessary to hold a licence above the basic 'car licence' (currently DVLA category B), in order to start working towards the qualifications.

Level 2
Mandatory Units

• Monitoring the loading of the vehicle by others
  
• Completing pre-driving preparations
  
• Maintaining the safety and the security of the load, self and property
  
• Awareness of driving conditions
  
• Operating the vehicle systems
  
• Driving the vehicle on public roads
  
• Driving the vehicle in restricted spaces
  

Additional Units

• Unloading the vehicle
  
• Coupling and uncoupling the vehicle

Candidates must get all the mandatory units for a full award. The additional units do not form part of the qualification, but are available for candidates who have the opportunity to demonstrate competence in these areas.

Level 3
Mandatory Units

• Monitoring the loading of the vehicle by others
  
• Unloading the vehicle
  
• Completing pre-driving preparations
  
• Maintaining the safety and security of the load, self and property
  
• Awareness of driving conditions
  
• Operating the vehicle systems
  
• Driving the vehicle in restricted spaces
  
• Driving the vehicle safely and efficiently on public roads

Optional Units

• Obtaining information on the delivery and collection of loads
  
• Planning the route and timings for the delivery and collection of loads
  
• Loading the vehicle
  
• Coupling and uncoupling the vehicle
  

Candidates must get all mandatory units, plus at least any two option units for a full award.