Introduction: Why Your Driver CV Is Your Most Powerful Job Tool
Your driver CV is far more than a list of past jobs; it’s your personal ticket to a better job, better pay, and better opportunities.
Whether you’re applying for an HGV, LGV, lorry, or delivery driver position, your CV is often the first and only chance to impress recruiters. In a highly competitive UK job market, employers are sifting through hundreds of applications, and it only takes 6–8 seconds for them to decide if your CV goes on the “yes” pile or the “no” stack.
That means first impressions count.
A well-written driver CV does more than just tick boxes; it tells your story. It shows you’re more than a steering wheel and a clean license. It demonstrates your reliability, safety record, route knowledge, customer service, and attention to detail, all without you saying a word.
But here’s the kicker: most driver CVs are either outdated, too generic, or poorly structured. If yours falls into any of those traps, you’re missing out on opportunities that could change your life. Learn whether to write your CV yourself or hire an expert.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn how to write a professional driver CV that not only passes applicant tracking systems (ATS) but also stands out to human recruiters. We’ll break down exactly what to include, what to avoid, and how to tailor your CV for HGV, LGV, delivery, or lorry roles in the UK.
Let’s make sure your next CV gets you behind the wheel, not left on the curb.
What Is a Driver CV and Why Does It Matter in the UK Job Market?
A driver CV is your professional profile, a tailored document that outlines your driving experience, relevant qualifications, licenses, and personal attributes that make you the right fit for a driving role. Whether you’re applying as an HGV driver, LGV driver, lorry driver, or delivery driver, your CV is your first step toward getting shortlisted.
In the UK transport and logistics sector, competition is fierce. With companies like Amazon, Royal Mail, Tesco, DHL, and thousands of smaller hauliers constantly hiring, there’s no shortage of opportunities. However, what many applicants don’t realise is that recruiters aren’t just looking for someone who can drive; they’re searching for drivers who are punctual, safety-conscious, customer-friendly, and tech-savvy.
This is why a strong CV matters.
A high-quality driver CV communicates far more than job titles and dates. It shows that you understand your role in the supply chain, take responsibility seriously, and have the qualifications to meet the UK’s strict transport regulations — from a valid CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) to clean driving records.
And let’s not forget automation. Most UK employers now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan CVs before a human ever sees them. If your driver CV isn’t properly formatted or lacks the right keywords, it might never even reach the recruiter’s inbox.
So yes, your driver CV absolutely matters. It’s your first impression, your passport to better roles, and quite possibly your most important career tool.
If you want to be seen, considered, and called in for interviews, your CV has to do the heavy lifting.
Key Elements Every Successful Driver CV Should Include
To create a driver CV that truly gets results, you must include the right information in the right format. A successful CV not only highlights your driving credentials but also shows recruiters that you’re professional, reliable, and ready to deliver.
Here’s exactly what your driver CV should include:
✔ Contact Information
Always start with your full name, professional phone number, email address, and location (town/city is enough, full address not required). Make sure your email sounds professional. An address like driver.joe78@gmail.com is much better than madlad123@hotmail.co.uk.
✔ Personal Profile / Summary
This short paragraph at the top of your CV should summarise who you are, what you do, and what makes you stand out. For example:
“Reliable and safety-focused Class 2 HGV driver with 6+ years of experience delivering goods across the UK. Proven track record of on-time deliveries, excellent vehicle maintenance, and outstanding customer service.”
Keep it specific and results-oriented; this section is your elevator pitch.
✔ Driving Licences and Certifications
List all your relevant qualifications, including:
- Driving licence type (e.g. Category C, C+E, B)
- CPC qualification
- Tachograph card
- ADR certification (if applicable)
- Any HIAB or forklift training
Make sure this is up to date and accurate; it’s one of the first things employers will check.
✔ Work Experience
Include your most recent roles first, focusing on those relevant to driving. For each job, list:
- Job title
- Employer name
- Dates of employment
- Key responsibilities and achievements
Use action verbs like “Delivered,” “Operated,” “Maintained,” and “Coordinated.” Quantify where possible:
“Delivered up to 120 parcels daily across Greater London with a 98% on-time rate.”
✔ Key Skills
Split these into two types:
Technical Skills: Route planning, GPS use, load securing, vehicle checks
Soft Skills: Communication, time management, customer service, reliability
✔ Education and Training
If you’re early in your career or have taken relevant courses (e.g. NVQs, transport & logistics diplomas), include them. Otherwise, keep this section brief.
By covering these essentials, your driver CV will be complete, ATS-friendly, and ready to impress hiring managers from the start.
How to Tailor Your Driver CV to Specific Roles
One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is using the same generic CV for every application. In the competitive UK driving job market, this one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Employers aren’t just looking for a “driver”, they want a specific type of driver who matches their exact needs.
So, how do you tailor your CV effectively?
Start with the Job Description
Before updating your CV, read the job advert closely. Highlight the key requirements, such as:
- Licence categories (e.g. Category C for HGV)
- Experience levels (e.g. 2+ years)
- Specific duties (multi-drop, long-haul, nights, customer-facing)
Once you’ve identified these, mirror the language in your CV, naturally and honestly, to reflect what they’re asking for.
Unsure which driving licence you need? Check the official GOV.UK licence categories
Customise Your Personal Statement
Your personal summary is the first thing recruiters read. Instead of a general intro, make it role-specific:
“Experienced LGV driver with a strong track record in long-distance haulage across the UK and Europe, holding a clean C+E licence and full CPC.”
This shows alignment from the very top of your CV.
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills
Emphasise jobs that closely match the role you’re applying for. If the role involves customer interaction (e.g. delivery driver), mention your communication and people skills. If it’s warehouse-to-warehouse work, focus more on logistics, route planning, and load handling.
Tailored Example:
“Performed 20+ daily deliveries as a multi-drop driver across Birmingham, consistently meeting timed slots and receiving positive feedback from clients.”
Optimise for Keywords (ATS-Friendly)
Most UK recruiters use software to scan CVs for keywords. Use terms like:
- HGV / LGV / Lorry Driver
- CPC certified
- Multi-drop deliveries
- Tacho compliance
- Category C / C+E licence
This increases your chances of passing through ATS filters and getting seen by a human.
Many companies use software to scan CVs before they ever reach a recruiter. Learn how ATS systems work in the UK.
Tailoring your CV doesn’t take hours; just a few thoughtful adjustments can be the difference between landing an interview and being ignored.
Delivery Driver CV: What to Include (With Example Highlights)
If you’re applying for a delivery role, whether for a major courier, supermarket chain, or a local logistics company, your delivery driver CV needs to highlight speed, reliability, route knowledge, and customer service.
Unlike HGV or LGV roles that focus on long-haul or bulk freight, delivery jobs often require high-efficiency multitasking, time-sensitive logistics, and strong people skills. Recruiters want someone who can handle pressure, navigate efficiently, and represent their brand well on the doorstep.
Here’s what to include in a top-performing delivery driver CV:
Job-Specific Personal Statement
Open with a brief, tailored summary:
“Punctual and personable delivery driver with 3+ years’ experience delivering packages across Greater Manchester. Known for maintaining high customer satisfaction scores and consistently exceeding daily delivery targets.”
Key Responsibilities to Highlight
In the experience section, include duties such as:
- Loading and unloading goods
- Route planning using sat nav/GPS
- Handling multi-drop deliveries (10–150 per day)
- Customer interaction and proof of delivery (POD) systems
- Cash-on-delivery handling (if applicable)
Where possible, quantify your impact:
“Managed up to 120 timed deliveries daily with a 97% on-time rate and zero customer complaints over a 6-month period.”
Soft Skills That Matter
Don’t underestimate your people skills. Employers want drivers who are:
- Courteous and professional
- Organised and time-aware
- Quick problem-solvers in unexpected scenarios (e.g. traffic delays, difficult addresses)
Technical Tools
Mention experience with:
- Scanners and handheld devices
- Route-optimisation software
- Tacho compliance (if applicable)
- Safe vehicle checks and basic maintenance
A great delivery driver CV balances efficiency with professionalism. Use active language, strong examples, and a focus on customer satisfaction to show recruiters you’re more than just a driver; you’re a trusted representative of the company.
HGV Driver CV: Skills, Licences, and Keywords that Matter
When applying for a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) position, your HGV driver CV must go beyond basic job history. It should clearly showcase your licences, qualifications, driving experience, safety record, and technical knowledge. Employers in the UK haulage industry are looking for skilled, compliant drivers who can safely handle large vehicles under pressure.
Whether you’re applying for a Class 1 (C+E) or Class 2 (C) role, here’s what to focus on:
Essential Licences and Certifications
Recruiters want to see your qualifications up front. Include a dedicated section that lists:
- Valid UK driving licence (specify: Category C, C+E, etc.)
- CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)
- Tachograph card
- Driver qualification card (DQC)
- ADR certification (for hazardous goods, if relevant)
Make this visible in the top third of your CV; many hiring managers look for this first.
Core HGV Driver Skills to Highlight
In your skills section or job descriptions, include both hard and soft skills:
- Vehicle inspection and defect reporting
- Tacho compliance and legal hours management
- Long-distance and overnight haulage
- Load securing and weight distribution
- Fuel-efficient driving practices
- Route planning and adaptation
Soft skills matter too:
- Problem-solving during delays or diversions
- Independent decision-making
- Communication with depot teams and clients
Use the Right Keywords for ATS Systems
To pass applicant tracking systems (ATS), naturally include keywords like:
- “HGV driver”
- “Class 1 driver”
- “CPC qualified”
- “Tacho-compliant”
- “Long-distance haulage”
- “Trunking routes”
- “LGV Class C+E”
These aren’t just buzzwords; they’re terms real recruiters use to filter applications. Including them authentically helps your CV get through digital gatekeepers.
A well-structured HGV driver CV proves you’re not only qualified but ready to drive results from day one.
Top Tips for Writing a Compelling Personal Statement for Drivers
Your personal statement, sometimes called a professional summary, sits at the very top of your CV. It’s the first thing recruiters read, and often, it’s what decides whether they keep reading.
For a driver CV, this 3–4 sentence paragraph is your chance to grab attention and clearly state why you’re the right fit for the job.
Here’s how to make it count:
Be Specific, Not Generic
Avoid vague phrases like “hard-working” or “team player.” Instead, use targeted language that reflects your experience:
“Experienced HGV Class 2 driver with 8 years in regional and long-haul logistics across the UK and EU. Skilled in load safety, tacho compliance, and route planning.”
Tailor It to the Role
Mention the type of job you’re applying for, delivery, lorry, HGV, or LGV, and align your tone with the employer’s needs:
“Friendly and punctual delivery driver known for exceptional customer service and a 100% attendance record.”
Highlight Licences or Certifications Early
Employers often skim for license types and qualifications. If space allows, weave them in naturally:
“CPC-certified with a clean C+E licence and up-to-date tachograph card.”
Keep It Short and Impactful
Aim for 3–5 lines max. This isn’t the place to tell your life story, it’s a hook. Once they’re interested, they’ll read the rest of your CV for details.
A compelling personal statement sets the tone for the entire application. It’s your chance to make a strong first impression, show relevance, and give the recruiter a reason to shortlist you, all in just a few sentences.
Work Experience That Stands Out on a Driver CV
Your work history is more than a timeline, it’s proof of your reliability, capability, and consistency behind the wheel. For UK driving roles, recruiters want to see specific, relevant examples that show you can handle responsibility, follow regulations, and deliver results.
Here’s how to make your work experience section stand out:
List Jobs in Reverse Chronological Order
Always start with your most recent role and work backwards. For each job, include:
- Job title
- Company name
- Location
- Start and end dates
- A short list of bullet points outlining duties and achievements
Use Action Verbs to Add Impact
Avoid bland phrases like “was responsible for” and opt for strong, dynamic verbs:
- Delivered
- Operated
- Coordinated
- Maintained
- Navigated
- Ensured
Quantify Wherever Possible
Numbers add credibility. Show your impact by including measurable results:
“Delivered an average of 100 parcels daily across Central London with a 98% on-time success rate.”
“Completed over 400 long-haul HGV trips across the UK and mainland Europe, maintaining a 100% safety record.”
Tailor Responsibilities to the Role
If you’re applying for an HGV role, focus on:
- Long-distance driving
- Load safety
- Tacho compliance
For delivery roles, emphasise:
- Multi-drop efficiency
- Route knowledge
- Customer interaction
For each role, highlight transferable skills like:
- Time management
- Reliability
- Communication
Your work experience is where you prove that you don’t just say you’re capable, you show it. Strong, focused descriptions backed by evidence give your driver CV the competitive edge it needs.
Driver CV Skills Section: Soft Skills vs Technical Skills
The skills section of your driver CV is where you showcase both your technical abilities and your personal strengths. Employers are looking for a well-rounded professional, someone who can handle the demands of the road and represent the company with professionalism.
By clearly separating technical skills from soft skills, you make it easier for recruiters and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan your qualifications quickly.
✔ Technical Skills (Hard Skills)
These are the hands-on, job-specific abilities that prove you’re qualified to drive and manage vehicle operations safely. Include:
- Tachograph usage & tacho compliance
- CPC training & certification
- Vehicle safety checks & defect reporting
- Load securing and weight distribution
- Route planning & GPS navigation
- Manual handling and safe loading
- Logbook & delivery documentation
- Fuel-efficient driving practices
- ADR training (if applicable)
- HIAB/Forklift operation (if trained)
Use clear, recognised industry terms that ATS software can pick up.
✔ Soft Skills (People & Behavioural Skills)
Soft skills show you’re more than just a set of licences, you’re someone who’s reliable, communicative, and capable under pressure. Examples include:
- Punctuality and time management
- Customer service and friendliness
- Reliability and attention to detail
- Independence and problem-solving
- Adaptability in changing conditions
- Team communication at depots
- Calm decision-making during delays
Tip: Mix soft and technical skills into your job descriptions too, not just the skills list. This reinforces your strengths throughout your CV and adds authenticity.
In today’s transport industry, having the right balance of hard and soft skills is what separates a good driver from a great one. Make sure your skills section reflects the full scope of your value.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a UK Driver CV
Even the most experienced drivers can stumble when it comes to writing a CV. A single oversight could mean missing out on a great opportunity, even if you’re fully qualified for the role.
To help you stay on track, here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid in your UK driver CV:
❌ Leaving Out Essential Qualifications
Failing to list your CPC, tachograph card, or correct licence category (e.g. C, C+E) can get your CV discarded instantly. Always include these in a clearly visible section near the top.
❌ Using a Generic or Outdated CV
Using the same template for every application shows a lack of effort. Tailor your CV to match the job you’re applying for — especially for HGV, LGV, delivery, or lorry driver roles, each of which has unique demands.
❌ Writing Long, Waffling Paragraphs
Recruiters don’t have time to dig through dense blocks of text. Use bullet points, short sentences, and clear formatting to make your CV scannable, especially on mobile devices.
❌ Overusing Passive Language
Avoid phrases like “was responsible for.” Instead, use strong action verbs like delivered, operated, maintained, and coordinated to show impact.
❌ Ignoring ATS Keywords
If your CV doesn’t include the right keywords (e.g. “HGV driver,” “CPC certified,” “tacho compliance”), it may not pass Applicant Tracking Systems and reach a human at all.
By steering clear of these common CV mistakes, you boost your chances of landing interviews and moving ahead in your driving career, instead of being left in the slow lane.
Driver CV Template UK (Free Download + Guide)
Sometimes, the hardest part of writing your CV is knowing where to start. That’s why using a driver CV template can be a game-changer, it saves time, ensures proper formatting, and helps you stay focused on the content that matters most.
Below is a free, easy-to-edit UK driver CV template that’s suitable for HGV, LGV, lorry, and delivery driver roles.
Still not sure how to format your delivery or HGV driver CV? See CV examples on Indeed UK.
📝 Free Driver CV Template (Basic Structure)
[Full Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [Town/City]
Personal Statement
Professional summary tailored to the role (2–4 lines max)
Licences & Certifications
- UK Driving Licence: [e.g. Category C, C+E]
- CPC Certification (Valid)
- Tachograph Card
- ADR / HIAB / Forklift (if applicable)
Work Experience
Job Title – Company Name, Location
Month/Year – Month/Year
- Bullet points describing your duties and achievements
- Include metrics and active language
(Repeat for previous roles, most recent first)
Key Skills
- Tacho compliance
- Route planning
- Customer service
- Load handling
- Time management
Education & Training
[List relevant qualifications or training courses]
💡 How to Use This Template Effectively
- Tailor each section to match the job description
- Keep formatting consistent and clean
- Avoid graphics or columns, ATS systems prefer simplicity
- Save as a PDF before submitting unless otherwise requested
A professionally formatted CV gives you a huge head start in the application process. Use this template as your base, but make sure every word reflects your skills, experience, and suitability for the role.
Want professional help perfecting your CV? Explore our CV writing services.
Final Checklist Before Sending Your CV to Employers
Before you hit send, take a few moments to double-check your driver CV. A small error or missing detail could be the reason your application is overlooked.
Use this quick checklist to ensure your CV is polished, professional, and ready to impress:
✅ Is your CV tailored to the job?
Have you adjusted your personal statement, experience, and skills to match the role (e.g. HGV, LGV, delivery)?
✅ Are your licences and certifications clearly listed?
Include your CPC, tacho card, and relevant licence categories prominently.
✅ Have you used bullet points and clear formatting?
Make your CV easy to scan, especially on mobile or in ATS systems.
✅ Are your dates accurate and consistent?
Ensure no gaps or errors in your employment history.
✅ Did you proofread for grammar and spelling?
Use tools like Grammarly or ask someone you trust to review it.
✅ Is the file format correct?
Unless stated otherwise, send your CV as a PDF to maintain formatting.
A few final checks can make the difference between getting a callback and being passed over. Think of this as your pre-drive inspection, but for your career.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Writing a Driver CV
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about creating a standout driver CV in the UK, whether you’re applying for HGV, LGV, lorry, or delivery roles.
What makes a great driver CV in the UK?
A great driver CV is clear, concise, and tailored to the job. It should include up-to-date licences, certifications (like CPC), relevant experience, and specific skills such as route planning, tacho compliance, and customer service. Use bullet points and action-driven language to keep it engaging.
Should I include references on my driver’s CV?
It’s not necessary to list references directly on your CV. Instead, simply state “References available upon request.” This saves space and gives you more room to focus on your qualifications and experience.
Do I need a different CV for HGV and LGV roles?
Yes, while there may be overlap, HGV and LGV jobs often have different requirements. Tailor each CV to the specific licence category and duties (e.g. long-distance trunking vs. regional multi-drop work).
What if I don’t have any UK driving experience?
Focus on transferable skills like time management, safety awareness, and customer service. Include any relevant overseas experience, training, or certifications. A well-written CV with strong soft skills can still open doors.
Can I use the same CV for delivery driver jobs and lorry driver jobs?
It’s best to create role-specific versions of your CV. Delivery jobs often require customer interaction and multi-drop efficiency, while lorry driver roles focus more on freight handling and long-distance compliance.
How long should my driver CV be?
Keep it to 1–2 pages max. Recruiters appreciate brevity and clarity. Use spacing, subheadings, and bullet points to make it easy to scan.
What format should I send my CV in?
Always send your CV as a PDF, unless the job advert requests a different format. This ensures your layout remains intact across devices.
Got more questions? Drop them in the comments or reach out via the contact page, we’re here to help you get behind the wheel of your next job.
Conclusion: Drive Your Career Forward With a Professional CV
In today’s competitive UK job market, your driver CV is more than just a document; it’s your personal marketing tool, your professional introduction, and your first step toward landing the job you deserve.
Whether you’re applying for a role as an HGV driver, LGV driver, lorry driver, or delivery driver, your CV must speak directly to what employers are looking for: reliability, compliance, skill, and professionalism.
By following the steps in this guide, from crafting a strong personal statement to showcasing your licences, tailoring your experience, and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll give yourself the edge over other applicants and increase your chances of landing interviews.
Remember, recruiters don’t just want someone who can drive. They want someone they can trust with their brand, their vehicles, and their customers. A polished, well-written CV shows that you’re ready to take that responsibility seriously.
So take the time to get it right. Use the template, follow the tips, and make your CV work for you.
You’re not just applying for a job, you’re driving your career forward.
✉️ Need expert help with your driver CV? Contact us today or visit our homepage to learn more.
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