The transport sector has been facing a staff shortage for years. As a result, there are plenty of opportunities for anyone looking for a stable job. It is therefore no surprise that many people, especially those who are a little older, choose a new direction and start working as drivers. But is it actually possible to change course later in life and become a truck driver? And how do you go about it?
Why retrain as a truck driver?
Anyone can retrain to become a truck driver, young or old. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve just finished school or come from another industry. You can even become a truck driver later in life. That’s why many people retrain as truck drivers. And for good reason, because it comes with plenty of benefits:
- Job security
There has been a staff shortage in the transport sector for a long time. So you can easily find a job as a truck driver. What’s more, it’s a stable profession with plenty of job security. Goods always need to be transported, after all. And last but not least, the pay is generally good too—especially if you specialize!
- Freedom
As a driver, you have a lot of freedom. You drive different routes and see new surroundings and landscapes along the way. You can also enjoy working independently. Of course, you drive by yourself, and in many cases you can set your own schedule. That feeling appeals to a lot of people!
- Short training period
In general, training to become a truck driver does not take very long. You do not have to spend years studying for it. A work-based learning program takes about two years, but through a career-change program you can sometimes start working after just 5 to 6 months.
- Start your own business
Perhaps not relevant to everyone, but as a truck driver it is also relatively easy to start your own business or work as a self-employed driver. You will just need to obtain a NIWO licence. This is a kind of diploma for entrepreneurs in professional road haulage.
Are there any downsides too?
Every coin has two sides. For some people, there are drawbacks too. Think, for example, of the long working days and irregular hours. This isn’t always good for the balance between work and your private life. Your family may need some time to get used to it. And, of course, you spend a lot of time behind the wheel. That can be quite demanding, both physically and mentally!
How does it work?
Would you like to retrain as a truck driver? Then you need a category C truck driving licence with Code 95. A category C licence alone is not enough. To obtain a category C licence with Code 95, you must have a category B driving licence and pass your truck theory test. The theory consists of three modules:
- RVM1-C
- VM2-C
- VM3-C
In addition to the theory exams, you also need to take the Practical Truck C Exam and pass a number of professional competence tests with a practical training provider. For example, during the Professional Competence C Practical Test and the Professional Competence C Closed-Circuit Test (or C Simulator Test), you need to show that you can perform all the required manoeuvres correctly!
Retraining programmes through employers
Do you have to arrange all of the above yourself? You can if you want to start out on your own. But you don’t have to. Many employers offer retraining programs that allow you to train as a truck driver. Often, they’ll even offer you a job once you’ve completed the freight transport training!
Would you also like to retrain as a truck driver?
Would you also like to retrain as a truck driver? At NuVrachtwagen, we’re happy to help you with your theory exams. We offer courses on the same day as your exam, so everything is still fresh in your memory and you almost always pass on your first attempt. This applies to all modules of the regular truck theory course as well as the NIWO diploma!
