Are you searching for driving jobs in the UK with great pay and career flexibility? Whether you’re a UK resident or an international job seeker, the demand for qualified drivers has never been higher. This blog will guide you through the types of driving jobs available, how much they pay, what qualifications are required, and how to apply in 2025.
Why Driving Jobs Are in High Demand in the UK
The UK logistics, transport, and delivery sectors have seen rapid growth in recent years, especially with the boom in online shopping and e-commerce. With a shortage of licensed drivers across the country, many companies are actively hiring for both full-time and part-time positions.
Benefits of Driving Jobs in the UK:
- Good hourly wages and overtime
- High job availability across regions
- Flexible shifts (day/night)
- Options for local and long-distance driving
- Sponsorship available for some roles
Common Types of Driving Jobs in the UK
Here are the most popular categories of driving jobs in the UK:
#1. HGV/LGV Driver (Heavy Goods Vehicle / Large Goods Vehicle)
- Responsibilities: Long-haul deliveries between cities or countries
- License Required: Category C, C+E
- Average Salary: £30,000–£45,000/year
#2. Delivery Driver
- Responsibilities: Local parcel deliveries for companies like Amazon, DPD, and Hermes
- Vehicle: Often provided by employer
- Average Pay: £10–£16 per hour
#3. Taxi or Private Hire Driver
- Responsibilities: Transporting passengers via Uber, Bolt, or private firms
- License Required: Private hire license from local council
- Earnings: £20,000–£35,000/year (varies by hours worked)
#4. Bus Driver
- Responsibilities: Driving city or regional buses
- License Required: Category D
- Average Salary: £25,000–£35,000/year
#5. Forklift Truck Driver
- Responsibilities: Moving goods inside warehouses
- License Required: Forklift certification
- Average Salary: £20,000–£28,000/year
Qualifications and Requirements
The good news is that many UK driving jobs require only basic education and a valid license. However, some roles need specific licenses and certifications.
Basic Requirements:
- Must be 18+ years old (21+ for some roles)
- Clean UK or international driving license
- Good vision and physical health
- Right to work in the UK
Additional Licenses:
| Job Type | License Type |
|---|---|
| HGV Driver | Category C or C+E |
| Bus Driver | Category D |
| Taxi Driver | Private Hire or Hackney Carriage license |
| Delivery Driver | Category B (standard car license) |
Optional Certifications:
- Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) for commercial drivers
- Basic English proficiency (for international applicants)
- Enhanced DBS Check (for passenger transport roles)
Average Salary by Role
| Job Title | Hourly Pay | Annual Salary Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| HGV Driver | £13 – £20/hour | £30,000 – £45,000 |
| Delivery Driver | £10 – £16/hour | £20,000 – £35,000 |
| Bus Driver | £12 – £18/hour | £25,000 – £35,000 |
| Taxi Driver (Uber) | Varies | £20,000 – £35,000+ |
| Forklift Driver | £10 – £15/hour | £20,000 – £28,000 |
Work Visa & Opportunities for Foreign Drivers
If you’re an international candidate, UK driving jobs may still be accessible under certain visa categories:
#1. Skilled Worker Visa
Some driver roles (especially HGV) are eligible for the Skilled Worker route if:
- You have a UK sponsor/employer
- You meet salary threshold (£26,200/year or £10.75/hour)
- You pass English and health requirements
#2. Temporary Visa (Seasonal Work)
- Temporary logistics or delivery driver roles may be available during peak seasons.
- Visit the official UK immigration website for up-to-date details: gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Tips for Getting Hired Fast
- Keep your license and CPC up-to-date
- Get a clean medical and criminal record check
- Be flexible with shift timings (nights/weekends)
- Consider self-employed courier work (with your own vehicle)
- Get a UK number and address if relocating soon
Check : driving jobs in UK
