Following the setting up of your sole proprietorship, a number of conditions must be satisfied to become an HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) driver:

– Be over 21 years old;

– Possess an HGV driving licence for more than 3 years;

– Engage in heavy goods vehicle driver training.

Regarding the required training, this refers to the Initial Minimum Mandatory Training (IMMT). This training is offered at AFTRAL training centres, recognized by the state. The IMMT lasts 140 hours and ranges between £2,000 and £2,500.

Upon completion of this training, a certificate of completion and a training completion certificate are granted to the HGV driver, who can then begin working.

What Costs Will an Independent Driver as a Sole Trader Incur?

If you are looking to start a career as an independent HGV driver under a one-person business structure, you should take into account the expenses that you will bear, as it is not possible to deduct professional expenses.

Indeed, when you have a sole trader business, you are taxed on your gross turnover and not on your earnings. Therefore, you cannot remove your expenses from your income.

Hence, the buying and maintaining of the vehicle, as well as fuel costs and client comfort expenses, will be your burden.

However, a standard automatic deduction is offered for professional expenses. The amount of this deduction is a minimum £250 and varies with the type of activity:

– 71% for sales activities;

– 50% for BIC service provisions and furnished rentals;

– 34% for service provisions under BNC and liberal professions.

As an hgv medical driver operating as a sole trader, you can take advantage of a 50% tax deduction.