Positing that a problem exists with how many drivers are entering the industry is like saying that night follows day. Less understood is the precise scale of that issue, although data on driving tests taken published by DVSA shines a bright light.
It illustrates that the number of PCV tests sat declined by over one-third between 2007/08 and 2023/24. The pass rate increased significantly, masking some of that fall. But the industry has still seen the number of new drivers reduce.
That will come as no surprise to those familiar with the sector. But comparing the trend in PCV to that for LGV driving tests – particularly beyond 2020/21 – is an insightful exercise when work by the government and freight industry stakeholders to grow LGV driver numbers is considered.
Those efforts saw the number of LGV tests sat balloon spectacularly, even as the pass rate rose at the same pace as in PCV.
LGV numbers have fallen back more recently, but what had occurred from 2021/22 onwards indicates how, with messaging, capacity and funding in place, vocational driving as a career still raises interest in a good number of people.
That should be welcomed, given the as yet unanswered question of whether younger generations still see it as an occupation they may wish to pursue.
Although some in coach and bus cursed work to attract lapsed LGV drivers back to that craft, it demonstrates the adage that where there is a will, there is a way. Representative bodies now need to advocate a follow-up for the passenger sector.
DVSA data on PCV driving test numbers here.
