The hgv test
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THE CULMINATION of your learner driver's training period is the test itself. He must be at least 21 years old, unless he is operating under the Young Drivers' Scheme, and he must be in possession of a provisional hgv driving licence. His ordinary driving licence must entitle him to drive vehicles in Group A (or Group A or B for automatic vehicles).
The test will last for approximately two hours and will cover a route around 25 miles. Motorway driving is not usually included in the test, but the examiner may ask questions about motorway procedures. Care must be exercised to ensure that taking the test will not cause the drivers' hours legal limits to be exceeded.
The oral part of the test will include questions on the Highway Code, traffic signs and mechanical aspects affecting the safe operation of the vehicle. Candidates on articulated vehicles will be expected to know the procedures for coupling and un-coupling the semitrailer.
Included in the test will be a series of manoeuvring exercises conducted on an off-road area at the test centre. Forward and reverse steering exercises will include bringing the vehicle to a halt within a specific area, using bays which are approximately. one and a half times the width of the vehicle.
The paved area used will be about 300ft by 60ft in size and will be marked out by cones and lines, with stopping positions clearly indicated.
In the braking exercise, the candidate must demonstrate that he can bring his vehicle to a halt quickly but with safety and under full control from a spe of around 20mph.
Throughout the test, the c( didate will be expected to folk the correct driving procedui when negotiating corners, ro junctions, roundabouts, tra1 lights and all other types hazards. He must maintain cc stant all-round observatic using his mirrors and showi due consideration for other ro users in all situations.
The examiner will be looki for prompt and sensible acti in response to signals given a actions taken by other drivi and for evidence that the can date is able to handle his vehi safely and competently in road and weather conditions.
During the road driving part the test your learner will be pected to demonstrate a ge changing exercise. He will asked to move off in the low, gear and to change up throu each gear in turn at suitable tervals until the highest gear reached. He will then be asked demonstrate his ability change down from top gear, o gear at a time until the low( gear is reached, using his bra) as necessary to reduce 1 speed of the vehicle as a when required.
The tests are conducted qualified Department of Trai port examiners based at proved Test Centres through( the country.
Successful candidates will awarded a certificate relative the class of vehicle used in 1 test.
Failed candidates will be giv a Form DLG24 which itemif. the reasons for failure.