I am taking My LGV theory test soon. I feel confident in passing this as the study, revision and mock tests are presenting no problems. However, what can I expect during practical driver training and tests both for class 2 and class 1? Would appreciate any advice and help. Thanks.
It depends very much on your choice of trainer as to what will happen during your training. The industry is totally unregulated and, as a result, is a minefield for the potential customer. Having said that, most trainers have a genuine desire to turn out a qualified driver. It’s just that equipment and ability vary considerably.
You may find this handy: dft.gov.uk/fyn/lgv.php The trainers on that list are obliged to employ DSA Registered Instructors and provide a high level of facilities. Training records have to be made available for audit by DSA and the accreditation has to be renewed annually.They even check vehicle MOT and insurance as well as inspecting vehicles to make sure they meet the standard for accreditation.
As an alternative, visit a couple of local trainers and try to satisfy yourself as to their quality and professionalism. Or book on rock solid recommendation. Avoid brokers like the plague. Their websites are easy to spot. Look for indications of large numbers of training centres and promises of help with jobfinding and very good wages.
When it comes to test, this will be conducted either from the trainer’s site if it is an approved driving test centre. If not, you will be taken to a public test centre. Either way the test is the same. You will answer 5 questions on vehicle checks, perform a simple reversing exercise, drive for an hour, commit no serious faults and collect your pass certificate. Class 1 has 2 questions, a 50 minute drive, same reversing exercise (more room for it) and you have to uncouple the trailer and recouple.
If you passed your car test prior to 1997 you will need to complete 35 hours periodic training for your driver cpc (some trainers can facilitate some of these hours from your driver training). If you passed your car test 1997 onwards, you will need the driver cpc initial qualification. This is a theory test (case studies format) known as module 2 followed by a practical demonstration test for 30 minutes where you will need to demonstrate knowledge of loading, checks for drug trafficking, illegal immigration and vehicle safety. Most trainers offer around 2 or 3 hours training for this. There is no driving on this test. The driver cpc must be in place before you can drive professionally.
Hope this helps, fire away with any more questions, Pete 
Pete’s description of the entire process is 100% accurate technically.
Assuming the OP has thoroughly checked out the preferred trainer what can you expect when the training begins?
It will seem strange for the first couple of hours. You will be told to slow everything down. As you become slightly more confident and feel comfortable in the truck you will start driving the truck like you do your car. It won’t be long before the problems occur. You will most likely enter roundabouts with nowhere near enough space to complete the move without forcing someone to slow down.
In the initial couple of days you will be checking the mirrors at very best 10% of what is required to pass. The reverse is basic so don’t worry about that. In fact I only ever take students reversing once on the course the day before the test. The battle is won on the road not the reversing area (Cat C)
Test day comes, Driving ability 40% important. Mental strength and self belief 60 % probably more. Thats why good drivers fail and less good drivers pass. They have more mental strength.
Finally if I was asked to say how to pass this test in just 1 word it would be CONCENTRATION
Good luck
Have a read of this - viewtopic.php?f=46&t=44667&p=503943#p503950
It’s exactly as John describes it above (brilliant post!). Just remember you are not trying to learn to drive a truck like you drive your car and you’ll be ok. All the best for your training.
th2013:
Just remember you are not trying to learn to drive a truck like you drive your car and you’ll be ok.
That said, if you make your car driving the best it can be then that will transfer over to truck driving
GENERAL DRIVING PRACTICES
LGV driving and advanced driving are virtually the same in most cases
I get LGV drivers as advanced driver associates and they pass the AD test with ease with very little prep so the same can be said doing it the other way around