HGV Test Information & Advice
You have completed your HGV theory tests, undergone practical driver training and now it’s time to take the practical test (Module 3). Your test should last approximately 90 minutes. This includes ‘tell me, show me’ questions, the reversing exercise and road drive (approx 1 hour). Your instructor will have explained the test scenario and trained you to the standard required to pass. Below are 20 quick tips to help you achieve success
1. Make Progress…this is really important! Where safe to do so you must make progress. You have to demonstrate you know what the speed limit is and keep up with other traffic.
2. Forward plan – Don’t leave everything to the last minute. Look ahead and plan early. Remember your truck takes longer to stop than a car.
3. Use your reversing marker. Using a marker fixed to the trucks rear mud guard will help ensure you get the rear of the truck into the box perfectly. Your instructor should advise you on this.
4. Remember both parts of your licence (and theory test certificate). Not having these documents will mean no test.
5. Have a pre-drive. It’s not advisable to train for hours and hours on test day. You want to be fresh and ready not tired and drained. A 40-60 minute pre-drive is recommended and should bring you up to speed.
6. Mirrors! Mirrors!, Mirrors!. An important factor. Before doing anything (moving off, speeding up, changing gear, slowing down etc.) you must check your mirrors.
7. Gears to go. Brakes to slow. Using your to gears to slow down is not accepted and can cost you faults. A competent driver will use the brakes to slow and then select an appropriate gear to proceed.
8. Know your test area. You will not know your test route in advance of your test (DSA soon to stop publishing test routes.) It’s a good idea however to be familiar with the testing area.
9. Controlled stop. To change from 1.1.2011. The braking exercise (controlled stop) will be carried out on the public highway.
10. Face forward when mounting the truck. Face forward when dismounting. Use the hand rails and steps. Maintain three points of contact.
11. Go to bed early the night before your test.
12. Remember your Examiner is only human. He/she appreciates a smooth, controlled drive like anyone else.
13. Meeting oncoming traffic. Be prepared to slow down and stop your vehicle when meeting oncoming large vehicles. It is much easier to asses awkward situations when stationary or moving slowly.
14. Do a pre-use vehicle check prior to your test. While doing your check you can cover all the potential tell me show me questions.
15. Take your seat belt off when carrying out the reversing exercise. It only gets in the way. Remember to put it on again once the maneuver is complete.
16. Moving off from any stationary position. You must always check your mirrors and blind spot.
17. You don’t need to wear a suit to impress. Comfortable work boots and attire would suffice.
18. You can commit up to 15 minor faults and still pass your LGV practical driving test. If you make a mistake, move on and forget about it. Dwelling on prior mistakes only creates more mistakes.
19. Reversing Exercise. You can take up to 2 shunts, if required. If you take a shunt. Make use of it. You can also get out of the vehicle once. You should use this to ensure you have placed the rear of the truck in the correct place.
20. Switch of your mobile.
21. When you pass please refrain from kissing the Examiner. He/she is only doing their job.
For more information on HGV Training contact us today on 0141 557 2212