More Information
ADR drivers drive large goods vehicles (LGVs) containing dangerous goods, such as radioactive materials, petrol or explosives.
Academic qualifications are not required to work in ADR driving jobs, although the vast majority of employers seek candidates with a good standard of physical fitness and evidence of basic literacy and numeracy. An LGV licence is essential for all ADR driving jobs and younger entrants to this profession may be able to take a fast-track route to gaining their licence by securing a place on a Young Driver Training Scheme.
Training and Salary
All ADR drivers receive extensive training courtesy of their employers. Staff may also be provided with the chance to gain NVQs in Driving Goods Vehicles. Under EU laws, all drivers of vehicles containing dangerous goods must possess a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (Driver CPC) and an Advisory Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) certificate.
ADR drivers may be self-employed or employed directly by manufacturers, retailers or road haulage companies. Employment opportunities for people with ADR driving certificates are often publicised through driver recruitment agencies.
Starting salaries for newly-appointed ADR drivers are around £14,000 a year. Those who work night shifts are likely to earn more than those who work during daylight hours.