Introduction
Driving jobs remain a vital component of the UK economy, serving multiple industries—from logistics and healthcare to hospitality and construction. Whether transporting goods across the country, delivering takeaways in a city, or chauffeuring clients to their destinations, drivers help keep the country moving. For those interested in finding work in the UK, a driver job offers good pay, flexible hours, and the possibility of long-term employment or even settlement.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about getting a driver job in the UK, including eligibility, job search platforms, typical salaries, visa options, common mistakes, and more.
Why Driving Jobs Are in Demand in the UK
The UK faces an ongoing shortage of drivers, particularly in the logistics and freight transport sectors. The rise of e-commerce, increased home deliveries, and post-Brexit labour shortages have all contributed to an increased demand for qualified drivers. Driving is also among the jobs listed on the UK Shortage Occupation List, particularly for HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) and LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) drivers.
This makes driving one of the more accessible jobs for foreign workers who meet visa and licensing requirements.
Types of Driving Jobs in the UK
There are multiple categories of driving jobs available, including:
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HGV/LGV Drivers – Driving trucks or articulated lorries for transporting goods.
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Delivery Drivers – For services like Amazon, DPD, Uber Eats, Just Eat, etc.
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Private Hire Drivers – Uber, Bolt, or private minicab drivers.
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Taxi Drivers – Licensed black cab drivers, often requiring special tests.
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Courier Drivers – Delivering parcels for logistics companies.
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Bus and Coach Drivers – Operating public or private passenger services.
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Chauffeurs – Driving private clients or executives in luxury vehicles.
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Company Drivers – Employed directly by businesses for transport tasks.
Each job type may have different licensing, training, and visa requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for Driver Jobs in the UK
Whether you are a UK resident or a foreign applicant, you must meet certain requirements to be eligible for a driver job. Below are the typical conditions:
For UK Residents
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Must be at least 18 years old (21 for some HGV roles).
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Hold a valid UK driving licence (Category B for cars, C for HGV).
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Pass a medical examination and eye test (especially for HGV jobs).
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For taxi or private hire drivers, pass the local authority test.
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Complete a DBS (criminal record) check.
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Have the right to work in the UK.
For Foreign Workers
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Must apply for a valid UK work visa (e.g., Skilled Worker visa).
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Possess an equivalent driving licence (may require conversion or additional tests).
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Pass the UK driving test if converting a non-EU licence.
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Obtain Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) for professional driving.
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Show proof of English proficiency (usually IELTS or equivalent).
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Have sponsorship from a licensed UK employer (for visa-based work).
How to Get a Driving Job in the UK: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a simplified guide to securing a driving job in the UK, whether you are already in the country or applying from abroad.
Step 1: Determine the Type of Driving Job You Want
Choose between HGV, courier, delivery, taxi, or chauffeur driving, based on your interest, experience, and licence category.
Step 2: Ensure You Have the Correct Licence
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For delivery or courier jobs: Category B (car) is often sufficient.
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For HGV/LGV driving: Category C or C+E is required.
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For buses: Category D is mandatory.
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For taxi/private hire: A local authority licence and private hire badge are needed.
Step 3: Complete Driver CPC Training (for commercial drivers)
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Mandatory for HGV and bus drivers.
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Includes 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years.
Step 4: Prepare Your CV and Cover Letter
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Highlight your driving experience.
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Emphasize soft skills like time management, reliability, and communication.
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Mention any relevant certifications (e.g., CPC, ADR).
Step 5: Search and Apply for Jobs
Use trusted job platforms (listed below). Look for visa sponsorship if applying from abroad.
Step 6: Interview and Background Check
Be ready to undergo:
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Right-to-work verification
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Licence and criminal background checks
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Driving assessment (especially for taxis and logistics)
Step 7: Visa Application (if applicable)
If sponsored, apply for a Skilled Worker Visa. Driving jobs (especially HGV) are on the Shortage Occupation List, easing visa requirements.
Best Job Search Websites for Driver Roles in the UK
For private hire or taxi roles, also check:
Always ensure job listings specify if visa sponsorship is offered.
Average Salaries for Driver Jobs in the UK
The pay varies by role, location, and experience:
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HGV Drivers: £30,000 – £45,000 per year
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Courier/Delivery Drivers: £22,000 – £32,000 annually (more with bonuses)
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Private Hire (Uber/Bolt): £500 – £900 per week (after expenses)
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Taxi Drivers: £25,000 – £38,000 per year
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Chauffeurs: £28,000 – £50,000 depending on client base
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Bus Drivers: £24,000 – £34,000 per year
London and major cities usually pay more but may come with higher living costs.
Visa Options for Foreign Drivers
The most common route for foreign drivers is the Skilled Worker Visa, which allows you to work in the UK with sponsorship.
Requirements:
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Job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor
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Minimum salary threshold (£26,200 or £20,960 if job is on the shortage list)
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English language proficiency
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Sponsorship certificate (CoS)
Jobs like HGV drivers, bus drivers, and certain delivery roles may qualify under this route.
Other options:
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Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (for specific nationalities, aged 18–30)
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Temporary Worker – Seasonal Visa (short-term jobs)
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Graduate Visa (if you're finishing studies in the UK)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Applying Without the Correct Licence
Always check the driving licence category required for the job. Applying for HGV roles with a standard Category B licence will result in rejection.
2. Ignoring CPC Requirements
Many applicants overlook the mandatory Driver CPC, which is a legal requirement for commercial driving roles.
3. Overlooking Insurance and Tax
Self-employed drivers (Uber, courier) need private hire insurance and must register for self-assessment tax with HMRC.
4. Incomplete Documentation
Submitting applications without a valid visa, sponsorship confirmation, or proof of right to work will delay your job hunt or result in visa denials.
5. Falling for Recruitment Scams
Be cautious of job listings that:
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Ask for money upfront
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Guarantee visa or jobs without interviews
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Offer unrealistic salaries
Always apply via verified job portals or directly through company websites.
Benefits of Working as a Driver in the UK
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Job Stability – Continuous demand due to supply chain and logistics reliance.
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Flexible Hours – Especially for private hire or delivery drivers.
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Opportunities for Self-Employment – Work as an independent contractor for platforms like Uber or Amazon Flex.
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Career Progression – Move into training, fleet management, or logistics coordination.
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Pathway to Permanent Residency – Visa-sponsored roles can lead to settlement in 5 years.
Challenges to Expect
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Long Hours – Especially in HGV or delivery sectors.
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Health Risks – Prolonged sitting, back strain, or fatigue.
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Navigational Pressure – Especially in unfamiliar areas or tight delivery schedules.
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Weather Conditions – Driving in the UK often involves navigating rain, snow, or fog.
Proper training, planning, and rest can help overcome these hurdles.
Conclusion
Driving jobs in the UK offer a solid career path for both residents and foreign workers. With flexible work arrangements, competitive pay, and the opportunity for visa sponsorship, this sector presents a realistic and rewarding route into the UK workforce. Whether you're steering an HGV across the country or delivering parcels in your neighborhood, the roads in the UK can open up doors to stability and growth—provided you meet the legal and licensing requirements.
Start by identifying the right driving category, secure your documentation, and explore job platforms with high-paying and sponsorship-friendly opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I work as a driver in the UK without a UK driving licence?
No. Most driving jobs require a valid UK or converted foreign driving licence. For long-term employment, especially as a professional driver, a UK licence is essential.
2. Are there driving jobs in the UK with visa sponsorship?
Yes, especially for HGV, bus, and logistics-related roles. Look for jobs labeled as "Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship" on platforms like Indeed or Totaljobs.
3. How long does it take to become a licensed HGV driver?
Training and testing typically take 8–12 weeks, depending on the course provider. You'll need to pass a medical, theory, and practical driving test.
4. Do Uber drivers in the UK need a special licence?
Yes. You need a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) licence from the local council and must meet their specific criteria, including a background check and vehicle inspection.
5. Can I convert my international driving licence to a UK one?
If you're from a "designated country," you can exchange it for a UK licence. Otherwise, you’ll need to take the UK driving test.
