FAQs
Answers to our FAQs
Here you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about our training courses, booking procedures, and what you can expect. Our aim is to help you make informed decisions about your training needs and ensure a smooth and supportive learning experience with us.
01
You’re looking to develop your driving and invest a significant amount of money in yourself. Learning isn’t random – look at your early years at school, hobby or any competitive activity. There was always a plan, an outline or path to get you where you needed to be. The most efficient progressive route gives you structure to your learning and clearly sets your development expectation.
As recognised experts, SJP Driver Training delivers learning programmes in your chosen discipline that are a structured arrangement of activities, developing the skills needed to achieve your required learning and performance outcomes. Our courses follow in a logical order, guiding you through the contents in the most progressive route. We do this because we know it is the most efficient and cost-effective route to success.
02
Our team of instructors hold the highest qualifications. All our instructors are NRI or RTITB registered, as well as being previous drivers in the HGV industry with over 50 years’ worth of experience you can be assured you will get the tuition you pay for.
Each member in our small team is dedicated and handpicked, sharing our passion for HGV’s and driving. Our business model is to have a small team of highly qualified and experienced instructors in the 4 disciplines we teach. No large group of instructors just to get the numbers through the door – our specialism is a bespoke, quality and professional service with instruction to match.
03
Our dynamic driver training, based on true vehicle dynamics understanding, cannot be replicated and makes us one of a kind. We are not all the same.
There is no ceiling to your learning with SJP Driver Training. As your objectives are achieved, your end goal may change. SJP Driver Training moves with you, building on your knowledge and techniques to where your driving goal takes you.
04
All of our courses are tailored to your unique objectives, skill set and personal learning outcomes. Intelligently designed, our courses deliver maximum enjoyment and safety. As individuals we all learn differently, some of us are visual leaners, whilst others auditory or reading/writing, or you may have a kinaesthetic learning style. As expert coaches, we adapt our style of teaching to meet each clients preferred method.
Our team of instructors hold the highest qualifications, they are all NRI or RTITB registered, as well as being previous drivers in the HGV industry. With over 50 years’ worth of experience you can be assured you will get the tuition you pay for.
05
Every SJP Driver Training client is an individual with their own unique objectives. At the same time, you share attributes and often have common goals. You expect a unique service tailored to your own learning style, objectives and vehicle type.
- Are you a driver who relishes being at the wheel?
- Are you a hands-on owner, drawing satisfaction from personally piloting your HGV?
- Do you want to know WHY? Not just be told HOW?
- Would you prefer to spend half the time and half the cost to reach a higher driving standard than with any other training provider?
- Are you looking to work with instructors who are genuine and have qualifications to prove their vehicle dynamic knowledge and coaching claims?
- Do you research before buying?
06
Dress Code: There is no dress code for any of our courses. Although some training is in-doors, it can still be cold in inclement weather conditions, please wrap up warm and ensure all necessary PPE is worn.
Proof of Identity: For most courses, proof of identity and/or driving licence number is required. As such, delegates should bring a driving licence photocard, driver qualification card or digital tachograph with them for each day they are attending a course.
Workwear and PPE: Materials Handling Equipment training, or where the site requires it, all necessary PPE should be worn. Where possible, delegates will be given advance notice if the site requires PPE to be worn. Please note, should a trainee attend a course without the required PPE then we have the right to cancel the course, full payment will be invoiced.
07
There are no hidden costs for our training. The course fee accepted at the time of booking and paid for in full before your training commences is the only money you will be required to pay. During your training light refreshments or lunch may incur a cost but that depends on you.
08
You need to hold a valid provisional HGV driving licence and be aged 18 or over. If you do not have a provisional HGV licence, you can get an application form from your local post office or from SJP Driver Training.
09
Our instructors recognise that learning to drive an HGV can be a very daunting experience. Your instructor will guide and support you and you will learn at your own pace. Soon you will find your nerves fade and your confidence grows!
10
The DVSA have many theory and practical test centres all over the UK. Your chances of passing the test are the same whichever centre you use. If we book your test for you then we will arrange it for the most convenient centre for you and your instructor.
11
All of our HGV’s are modern, air-conditioned automatic vehicles with camara and cycle safety systems fitted to them to ensure you get the most out of your learning experience.
12
We are a registered RTITB Master Driver Consortium Member. This means that we play a critical role in protecting the safety of all who travel on the road, through the delivery of comprehensive, innovative and engaging Driver CPC periodic training both online and in the classroom.
13
It usually takes between 5-8 weeks to learn to drive an HGV. This will include applying for your provisional licence, passing the medical, revising and passing the LGV theory, hazard perception, and if required, the Driver CPC. You will also need to master the practical skills required to be a professional HGV driver. To become a professional driver, you will sit 3 theory tests and 3 practical tests.
14
Cost varies depending on which licence you opt for and if you go directly to a training company or through an agency/broker. All our costs are on our website.
15
From 2021 the requirement to pass your Cat C test before being allowed to sit your Cat C+E test was abolished. Effectively you can now, if you wish, sit your Cat C+E test without having to pass your Cat C test first.
You can also go directly to C1+E 7.5 ton and Trailer/D1+E Minibus and Trailer and D+E Bus and Trailer.
16
Driver CPC is for paid drivers working for a company or for carrying someone else’s goods. The exemption the DVSA use are scaffolders; if the driver is carrying the goods to use at one job, then they are classed as exempt; if, however, they go to drive to another job then they would need a Driver CPC card. Horsebox drivers do not need a Driver CPC if it is for leisure only, not eventing or carrying someone else horses and being paid to do so.
17
Our training facilities are located east to the City of Hull, off Hedon Road. This is where you will start and finish your training each day, and where our training room is located. Practical training will take place on the roads in and around the City of Hull and our testing area.