31 August 2025

Are You Legally Required to Train Your HGV Drivers Every Year?

Do your drivers only get trained once — when they're hired? If so, you could be putting your O-Licence at serious risk. Annual training isn't just a nice-to-have; it's increasingly being expected by the DVSA and Traffic Commissioners.

A skip-hire firm recently contacted us after a roadside check revealed multiple defects and drivers' hours issues. When asked about training, they had no records since induction, and it showed. The result? A Public Inquiry notice and a panicked scramble to prove they were improving.

While the law doesn't mandate a specific frequency for driver training, the Senior Traffic Commissioner's Statutory Document No. 3 states that operators must ensure drivers are "continuously competent and compliant." This includes knowledge of:

• Drivers’ hours & tachograph rules

• Daily defect reporting

• Safe loading

• Walkaround checks

• Vulnerable road users (especially in urban areas)

Operators must also retain evidence of training and assessment.

So what's best practice? We recommend:

• Annual driver assessments (including in-cab observation)

• Monthly toolbox talks or focused compliance briefings

• Signed attendance registers and topic logs

• Reactive training when errors or infringements are found

At LDP Transport Consultancy, we include this kind of training support and evidence collection as part of our compliance packages, giving you peace of mind at your next audit.

You don't want to find out at a roadside stop that your driver doesn't know the rules. Make annual driver training part of your compliance calendar, not an afterthought.

✅ Need help with training plans or audit support?