I am looking at a change of career and looking into training for Hgv,A bit of a nightmare, can anyone give me some advice. I used to drive an old 7.5 20 years ago. Passed my driving test in 1989. Also I’m now 43 do you think it’s too late? I’ve been told I need experience but how the hell do get that without getting a job?
Hi - and welcome to the forum.
You are certainly not too old.
There IS evidence of an increasing driver shortage in some areas and the experience requirement is being dropped on a regular basis in favour of in-house assessments.
Standard advice: avoid brokers (they have the websites declaring 30+ training centres, promises of finding you work, £30k per annum). Only book having visited your chosen trainer and have a couple of assessments before you choose. Otherwise you have nothing to compare with. The only exception to visiting is booking on rock solid recommendation.
You might find this interesting: dft.gov.uk/fyn/lgv.php
Any questions, fire away. Pete 
Hi, Eddie Stobarts academy is in Widnes and they do full training. They also employ new drivers too if you pass their assessment after passing.
There is however about a 3 month wait for a place.
1921mark0:
I am looking at a change of career and looking into training for Hgv,A bit of a nightmare, can anyone give me some advice. I used to drive an old 7.5 20 years ago. Passed my driving test in 1989. Also I’m now 43 do you think it’s too late? I’ve been told I need experience but how the hell do get that without getting a job?
Hi Mark
I am a new guy… 45yr old! Passed test in August really looking forward to getting myself further down this career path. I am doing an induction at Downton haulage (Runcorn) this Monday, after doing a driver assessment there, which I have been lucky enough to be invited to 
I am living in Warrington and did all my training at Peter Smythe Transport training in Mansfield.
I have to say they are really very good, not because I passed! but mainly because the first time you go down there you’ll be made to feel at ease and very welcome… a brilliant cheerful and positive atmosphere there also
Go for it!!!
Gary.
Give Mark Thompson a ring he owns and runs Northwest HGV training based in Widnes very experienced trainer he will give you help and advice on what you will need to commence your training here is the link to his web site
http://www.hgv-training-northwest.co.uk/
Cheers for all the advice! I am going down to see Mark, figures crossed this weekend! I am struggling with the experience side. I have been told that you need 2 years experience!