Plumber/pipefitter

As per the Department for Business and Trade, the National Living Wage for HGV drivers aged 21 and over is £12.21 per hour from 1 April 2026. Drivers aged 18 to 20 receive £9.81 per hour and those aged 16 to 17 receive £7.55 per hour. The rate applies to all paid hours including waiting time recorded on the tachograph.

As per the Home Office, non-UK drivers require a Skilled Worker visa sponsored by a licensed employer with a minimum salary of £30,960 or the going rate for the occupation code 8211. The visa lasts up to 5 years and costs £719 for applications made outside the UK. Applicants must also hold a valid Driver CPC and meet the English language requirement at B1 level.

As per the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, applicants must hold a full category C or C+E licence on a UK photocard driving licence and a valid Driver Certificate of Professional Competence. New drivers must complete 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years. No formal academic qualifications are required beyond passing the theory and practical tests.

As per GOV.UK, applicants must provide a valid UK photocard driving licence, Driver CPC card, passport or birth certificate, and proof of National Insurance number. Employers also require a completed application form, CV showing at least 1 year of relevant experience, and a current digital tachograph driver card. Right to work evidence is mandatory for all applicants.