Driving HGV vehicles is one of the most profitable jobs in the UK since the demand for skilled drivers has been constantly on the rise in the sectors. With improved economic growth and dependence on logistics, transportation, and deliveries, the job of an HGV driver has gained much importance. They offer high wages, job security, and flexibility that makes it a very rewarding career for many of the drivers.
However, there are quite many HGVs. They differ in type and usage. The most widespread types are lorries and trucks, which are engaged in carrying goods. There are also other vehicles manufactured for special use, such as ambulances for paramedics. Therefore, each one has a licence and training to ensure a safe and efficient driver. A lorry driver is required to pass theory and practical tests and get a Category C licence along with Driver CPC certification.
The HGV licence in the UK is divided into various categories based on the size and weight of the vehicle, and in the UK, drivers must seek proper training programs which combine both practical driving skills with comprehensive knowledge of maintenance as well as the regulations that define safety. In effect, the test is tricky enough so that only those properly prepared will actually operate vehicles of this type responsibly. For example, as to how to become a paramedic driver in the UK, one will need a full manual driving licence and an approved NHS emergency driving course. Additionally, further training in ambulance care and first aid is required.
Do you feel an extraordinary urge to serve people? Do you think you will be an ambulance driver or paramedic driver in the UK? With this fulfilling job, you may really change people’s lives day after day.
Need for a Driver’s License for Paramedics
Paramedics in the UK should have a valid driving licence category C1. Driving any vehicle between 3.5T and 7.5T is termed as category C1. Any licence category C1 can be your minimum requirement; however, having category C really gives one more freedom of mobility into the future. Any vehicle over 3,500 (3.5T) can drive with a trailer up to 750kg under category C. This is sufficient to enable you to tow up to 750 kg in trailer load behind an example of a rigid truck of 26T and otherwise classified as Class 2.
How to Get a C Class Driving Licence?
You must go through some critical steps before you are qualified for your category C driving test.
- Obtain Provisional Licence: Your licence is required to feature provisional entitlements prior to driving. You will also require undergoing a medical check-up and completing the forms D2 and D4 provided by the DVLA.
- Take the Driving Theory Test: When you obtain your provisional licence to drive, you will want to book and pass the test. The good news is there are many approaches to studying and preparing for the test.
- CPC Module Case Studies:The case studies form a very crucial part of the training for the HGV driver. The CPC module 2 case studies have incorporated seven case studies.
- Study to drive an HGV at a driving school. It is a great opportunity to get special, one-on-one training with a driver instructor. All knowledge required to take and pass an exam, as well as drive with confidence, is gained from qualified, experienced teachers. This will involve studying topics unique to the driving of an ambulance. This includes off-road and on-road driving, along with a practical examination of CPC module 4.
Periodic CPC Training
As soon as you achieve your HGV licence, whatever vehicle you are driving, be it an ambulance or a lorry, you need to be current with your skills and knowledge. All HGV drivers, including emergency service personnel, are required to undertake 35 hours of periodical training every five years to continue their entitlement to drive.
Conclusion:
A career as a paramedic driver is a very unique blend of responsibility, skill, and purpose. The training provided for a paramedic driver does not only prepare one to move patients around but also prepares him or her to play an important role in the emergency healthcare wing. Indeed, by virtue of regular CPC training, one remains sharp and prepared. This is a rewarding profession, making one very relevant throughout life in more ways than one.
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