Is It Worth Getting a Class 1 Licence in 2025? A Full Guide for Kent Drivers

Is It Worth Getting a Class 1 HGV Licence in 2025? A Full Guide for Kent Drivers

If you’re wondering whether now is the right time to get your Class 1 HGV licence, you’re not alone. With driver demand rising across Kent towns like Gillingham, Sittingbourne, Dartford and Gravesend, many new and experienced drivers are considering an upgrade. This guide breaks it all down and shows why a Class 1 licence in 2025 is still one of the smartest career moves you can make.
‍

What Is a Class 1 Licence and What Can You Drive with It?

A Class 1 HGV licence, also known as a Category C+E licence, qualifies you to drive articulated lorries. These are the largest vehicles on UK roads and are essential for transporting goods across long distances, including into major hubs like London, the South East, and Kent’s growing logistics sector.

‍

With a Class 1 licence, you can drive:

• Articulated lorries

• Supermarket delivery trucks

• National freight transporters

• Long-haul logistics vehicles

This opens the door to a huge range of driving jobs in Kent and beyond.

To understand the difference between rigid and artic vehicles, read our post: [What’s the Difference Between Class 1 and Class 2 HGV?]
‍

How Does Class 1 Compare to Class 2 Driving in Kent?

While Class 2 (Category C) covers rigid vehicles for local routes and delivery work, Class 1 is your passport to higher wages, longer contracts and national work.

Here’s what you can expect from Class 1 jobs:

• Higher weekly earnings, often £1,000 or more

• Access to contract and agency work across Kent

• Long-distance runs with national firms

• The ability to work directly for distribution centres in Sittingbourne, Dartford, Medway and the M2 corridor

Many Learn2Pass graduates have successfully moved from Class 2 to Class 1 within months. To see if that route is for you, read our blog: [Can You Go Straight to a Class 1 HGV Licence?]
‍

How Much Does Class 1 HGV Training Cost in 2025?

If you’re based in Kent, training costs will depend on whether you already hold a Class 2 licence or not.

For brand-new learners:

• Medical and provisional application: £100 to £150

• HGV theory tests: £60 to £90

• Intensive Class 1 course: £1,500 to £2,400 depending on provider

• Total cost: around £1,700 to £2,500

If you already hold a Class 2 licence:

• Class 1 upgrade: £1,100 to £1,600

• Shorter training time

• Focused on artic reversing, coupling and long vehicle handling

We explain this more in [How Much Does HGV Training Cost in Kent? What You Need to Know].

And yes — 0 percent finance is available through Snap Finance for those who qualify. Learn2Pass also offers payment plans to help you get started.
‍

Is a Class 1 Licence Still Worth It in 2025?

For serious drivers looking for income, flexibility and national opportunities — yes, 100 percent.

• Class 1 drivers earn significantly more on average

• Demand for qualified drivers is growing across Kent and the South East

• Large firms are offering sign-on bonuses and flexible shifts

• You can access UK-wide contracts or even European haulage

Whether you’re based in Gillingham, Ashford, Maidstone or Rochester, a Class 1 licence opens doors to long-term stability and career progression.

Want to know more about earning potential? Check out: [How Much Can You Earn with an HGV Licence in 2025?]
‍

Should You Upgrade from Class 2 to Class 1?

Most drivers do. At Learn2Pass, our most popular route is the Class 2 to Class 1 upgrade. It is designed to be fast, efficient and career-transforming.

• Short training time with experienced instructors

• Real artic vehicles at our Kent training centre

• Evening and weekend slots available

• Employment guidance and referrals after passing

Find out how easy it is to make the switch in: [Can You Go Straight from Class 2 to Class 1?]
‍

Is Class 1 Right for You?

You should strongly consider a Class 1 licence in 2025 if:

• You want to earn £1,000+ per week

• You’re open to longer routes and national contracts

• You want to future-proof your career

• You’re based in Kent and want local access to quality training

If you’re only interested in local, short-haul work or early finishes, Class 2 might be a better fit for now. But for everyone else, Class 1 is the gold standard.
‍

Final Word: Is It Worth Getting a Class 1 Licence in Kent in 2025?

Without question. In a time of rising demand, increasing driver shortages, and booming logistics growth in Kent, a Class 1 HGV licence gives you the edge.

The return on investment is high. You’ll have access to jobs in Sittingbourne, Gillingham, Medway, Dartford, and across the UK — with earnings to match.

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact Learn2Pass today and speak to our chatbot about upgrading to Class 1. We’re Kent’s trusted name in HGV training.

‍