## Introduction

If you're interested in pursuing a career as a driver, you may have come across the term "Class 1 Driver". But what exactly does this job role entail? In this article, we'll dive into the details of what a Class 1 Driver does, their responsibilities, qualifications, skills required, salary range, and more.

## What is a Class 1 Driver?

A Class 1 Driver is a professional driver that operates heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of more than 7,500 kilograms. These vehicles are typically articulated lorries or tractor-trailers that require a special license to operate.

## Class 1 Driver Roles and Responsibilities

The primary responsibility of a Class 1 Driver is to transport goods from one location to another, ensuring the cargo is delivered safely and on time. Other responsibilities include:

- Conducting pre-trip inspections of the vehicle to ensure it is roadworthy and safe to operate

- Planning and organizing delivery routes

- Loading and unloading cargo

- Completing delivery paperwork and maintaining records

- Communicating with dispatchers, customers, and other drivers on the road

- Adhering to traffic laws and safety regulations

- Reporting any accidents, incidents, or vehicle malfunctions to the appropriate authorities or supervisors

## Class 1 Driver Qualifications

To become a Class 1 Driver, you must have a valid Category C+E driving license, which allows you to operate vehicles with a GVW of more than 7,500 kilograms. You must also meet the following qualifications:

- Be at least 18 years old

- Pass a medical exam and obtain a medical certificate

- Pass a theory and practical driving test

- Have a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) qualification

- Have a clean driving record with no major convictions, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or reckless driving

## Class 1 Driver Skills

In addition to the qualifications mentioned above, a Class 1 Driver must possess certain skills to be successful in this role. These include:

- Excellent driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws and regulations

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with customers, dispatchers, and other drivers

- Good planning and organizational skills to manage delivery routes and schedules

- Attention to detail to ensure cargo is loaded, secured, and delivered safely

- Physical stamina and fitness to handle the demands of long hours on the road

- Problem-solving skills to address unexpected situations, such as traffic congestion or vehicle malfunctions

## Class 1 Driver Salary in the UK

The average salary for a Class 1 Driver in the UK is around £30,000 to £35,000 per year. This can vary based on factors such as experience, location, company, and the type of cargo being transported.

## Class 1 Driver Contract

Class 1 Drivers can be employed on a permanent or temporary basis, depending on the needs of the company. Temporary contracts can range from a few days to several months, and may include full-time or part-time hours.

## What is a Class 1 Driver Job Description Sample?

Here is a sample job description for a Class 1 Driver:

### Class 1 Driver Job Description

We are seeking a qualified Class 1 Driver to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a valid Category C+E driving license, a CPC qualification, and a clean driving record. Responsibilities include transporting goods from one location to another, conducting pre-trip inspections of the vehicle, planning delivery routes, and communicating with dispatchers and customers. The successful candidate will have excellent driving skills, strong communication and organizational skills, and the ability to work independently. This is a full-time position with competitive pay and benefits.

## Other Names or Abbreviations for a Class 1 Driver

In addition to "Class 1 Driver", this job role may also be referred to as:

- LGV Driver

- HGV Driver

- Tractor-trailer Driver

- Artic Driver

- Heavy Goods Vehicle Driver

## Conclusion

If you're interested in pursuing a career as a Class 1 Driver, it's important to understand the job duties, qualifications, and skills required for this role. By possessing the necessary qualifications and skills, you can excel in this profession and enjoy a rewarding career with competitive pay and benefits.

Class 1 Driver

Class 1 Driver average salary in the UK in 2026

Logistics

Discover the job duties and responsibilities of a Class 1 Driver, including their qualifications, skills, and salary in the UK. Learn about the Class 1 Driver job description sample and other common names for this role.

Month	Jobs	Low	Average	High
December 2025	3,623	£38,200.00	£38,950.00	£39,700.00
November 2025	4,735	£39,650.00	£40,175.00	£40,675.00
October 2025	178	£38,650.00	£39,800.00	£40,950.00
September 2025	49	£34,775.00	£35,875.00	£36,950.00
August 2025	63	£41,450.00	£41,975.00	£42,500.00
July 2025	79	£40,275.00	£41,225.00	£42,175.00
June 2025	20	£36,600.00	£37,400.00	£38,175.00
May 2025	26	£38,325.00	£39,850.00	£41,375.00
April 2025	27	£36,275.00	£37,825.00	£39,375.00
March 2025	11	£37,200.00	£38,675.00	£40,150.00
February 2025	10	£36,725.00	£38,100.00	£39,500.00
January 2025	14	£41,000.00	£41,375.00	£41,750.00

Month	Low	Day rate	High
December 2025	NA	NA	NA
November 2025	NA	NA	NA
October 2025	NA	NA	NA
September 2025	NA	NA	NA
August 2025	NA	NA	NA
July 2025	NA	NA	NA
June 2025	NA	NA	NA
May 2025	NA	NA	NA
April 2025	NA	NA	NA
March 2025	NA	NA	NA
February 2025	NA	NA	NA
January 2025	NA	NA	NA

Class 1 Driver average salary in the UK in 2026

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Permanent salary trend in 2025

Contract rate trend in 2025

2026 vs 2025 at the same point in the year

What is the role of a Class 1 Driver in the UK?

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