Firstly I’d like to thank everyone here to the massive amount of information that simply isn’t available from just searching google. It’s been really helpful.
I’m looking to apply for my cat C license this year, Just saving the funds and about to book the medical, there is however a few questions I wanted to throw out there before I do so.
The medical : A long time ago I was diagnosed with depression however I believe I am through that and have never been on any medication whatsoever. I also have very minor short sightedness, (I only wear glasses when I feel very tired, I don’t need them to drive) I looked at the documents for the requirements for the medical and I think both of these points are fine but if anyone here thinks otherwise please say!
Anyone suggest a good driver training school in Swindon? I know there is a great list of suggested ones available but I was wondering if anyone had any personal suggestions for one!
3: Finding a job! How easy will it be for a 21 year old newly qualified to actually find a job? I assume I’ll have to sign up to an agency to get work? Should I go personally to a few companies and ask if they have vacancies or do I simply need more experience before I find any proper, full time work? Will I get paid decent rates or Will it be slightly lower due to me being newly qualified?
Thank you so much in advance for any response to any of my queries!
Ian
gogzy:
you realise you dont have to wait till your 21 to drive a truck now. its been lowered to 18
This ^
Since September 2009, you could drive a lorry (including artic providing sufficient test passed).
Yes I know this However I now have a reasonable amount of driving experience, I wouldn’t have been so confident a few years ago and It’s something that has been a consideration of the last 4/5 months anyway.
Problem is, it may be legal to drive but, I think under 25 finding work will be virtually impossible due to insurance restrictions.Sadly that coupled with a lack of experience means the prospect of work is very, very small.
Ain’t right that though in my view but just how it is.
The medical : A long time ago I was diagnosed with depression however I believe I am through that and have never been on any medication whatsoever. I also have very minor short sightedness, (I only wear glasses when I feel very tired, I don’t need them to drive) I looked at the documents for the requirements for the medical and I think both of these points are fine but if anyone here thinks otherwise please say
don’t worry about the medical. There only checking you to see if your are able and fit to drive a lorry. The doctor won’t give two hoots about your past.
Under 25 is the main issue. Try and get a van driving job first and see how you get on with that, particularly handy if you can get on with a company who also run heavies. You’ll get a taste of what it’s like to be a driver which will be useful if you decide to try the big 'uns.
44 Tonne Ton:
Under 25 is the main issue. Try and get a van driving job first and see how you get on with that, particularly handy if you can get on with a company who also run heavies. You’ll get a taste of what it’s like to be a driver which will be useful if you decide to try the big 'uns.
This ^^
You will certainly get a feel for driving for a living as if you can do the small stuff then can do the larger stuff
But again it may be insurance issues with this as well as they some times have the same restrictions with insurance that magic 25
The age thing may hinder you, however I’m 23 and I’m working full time in a class 2 job.
Just because you aren’t 25+ you shouldn’t simply give up on the idea if its what you want. Don’t get me wrong, I was lucky to be offered a job at 23 with NO experience at all. Not a single shift through an agency or anything.
you may be lucky like I was or you may struggle. The van idea might be a safer bet. It just depends on how you feel about taking the risk of paying for all your training now.
Maybe try some bigger companies I believe Eddie Stobart employs at 21 not sure though, but if you think you have a challenge Im trying to become an 18 year old owner driver.
SparkyFV:
Maybe try some bigger companies I believe Eddie Stobart employs at 21 not sure though, but if you think you have a challenge Im trying to become an 18 year old owner driver.
SparkyFV:
Maybe try some bigger companies I believe Eddie Stobart employs at 21 not sure though, but if you think you have a challenge Im trying to become an 18 year old owner driver.
Don’t try and run before you can walk mate. For example, I recently got an insurance quote as I have been toying with becoming an od, and at 31 with ten years claim free and a clean class 1, the quote all up was nearly 7 grand. Don’t expect much change out of 20k
SparkyFV:
Maybe try some bigger companies I believe Eddie Stobart employs at 21 not sure though, but if you think you have a challenge Im trying to become an 18 year old owner driver.
good luck with that
anyway at your age how the hell you going to prove to vosa you have dosh behind you?
All i am going to say is good luck with it. It is good to see that an 18 year old has an ambition and wants to do well in life rather then hang about on street corners.
SparkyFV:
Maybe try some bigger companies I believe Eddie Stobart employs at 21 not sure though, but if you think you have a challenge Im trying to become an 18 year old owner driver.
good luck with that
Been there, done that. DOES NOT WORK. - And that was before the credit crunch when fuel was 89.9 or less. I gave up because it’s just not worth it and people will simply rip the ■■■■ out of you.
Sadly the TC wont look too highly of an 18 year old with an O in their name - Far too much responsibility.
And for the record im only a few years older than you, but either way good luck.
However I now have a reasonable amount of driving experience, I wouldn’t have been so confident a few years ago and It’s something that has been a consideration of the last 4/5 months anyway.