Lorry Driver (HGV) Salary in the UK
HGV Class 2 drivers earn £28,000-£35,000. Class 1 drivers earn £35,000-£45,000. Specialist and long-haul drivers can earn £40,000-£55,000.
On the average lorry driver (hgv) salary of £38,000, you'll take home £30,880 per year or £2,573 per month after income tax and National Insurance.
Career Progression for Lorry Drivers
Lorry Drivers in the UK can expect significant salary variation based on experience and specialisation. Entry-level roles start around £25,000, rising to £35,000 at mid-career level. Senior lorry drivers earn around £50,000, with top earners (Fleet owner / Transport manager) reaching £60,000+.
Qualifications and Entry Requirements
Category C (rigid) or Category C+E (articulated) licence, Driver CPC qualification, and digital tachograph card. Training costs £2,000-£4,000 for Category C and an additional £1,500-£2,500 for C+E. The government has offered funded training schemes to address driver shortages. Medical examinations are required every 5 years.
Job Demand and Outlook
High demand following acute driver shortages in 2021-22. While the crisis has eased, long-term demographics (ageing workforce) and working conditions continue to create recruitment challenges. Specialist driving (ADR hazardous goods, tankers, temperature-controlled) commands premium rates. Tramping (long-distance, nights away) pays significantly more than local deliveries.
Career Path and Progression
Van driver, Class 2 (rigid) driver, Class 1 (articulated) driver, ADR driver, transport supervisor, transport manager, fleet owner. Class 1 drivers earn £5,000-£10,000 more than Class 2 drivers. Agency drivers can earn significantly more during peak periods. Owner-drivers who finance their own vehicles take on more risk but can earn substantially more per job.
Tax Tips for Lorry Drivers
Employed lorry drivers receive overnight subsistence allowances that are tax-free up to HMRC approved rates. Self-employed drivers can claim vehicle running costs, fuel, and maintenance. See £35,000 after tax for the employed take home pay breakdown.
Want to calculate with your exact salary, student loans, or pension?
Use our full calculator →See the exact breakdown for £38,000 salary or browse all profession salaries.