Career guide · Transport and logistics

HGV driver.

Also known as Large goods vehicle driver, Lorry driver, Truck driver

HGV drivers move goods around Ireland and internationally in large rigid and articulated vehicles. The role combines a valid category C or C+E licence with Driver CPC, safe loading, and route planning.

What this role involves

Large goods vehicle (HGV) drivers transport freight across Ireland and, for some employers, to and from Britain and mainland Europe. Day to day the work involves carrying out vehicle safety checks, loading and securing cargo, planning routes, keeping to tachograph and driving-hour rules, and completing delivery paperwork. Drivers usually hold a category C (rigid) or C+E (articulated) licence together with a current Driver CPC, and some carry an ADR certificate for dangerous goods. Demand is steady in haulage, distribution and warehousing across the country.

When this role fits

Likely a fit when

  • you hold a valid C or C+E licence
  • you have a current Driver CPC
  • you are comfortable with long driving shifts and delivery schedules

Likely not a fit when

  • you only hold a car (category B) licence
  • you are looking for warehouse-only work without driving

Official occupation classification

Roles like this usually map to the following SOC 2010 occupation code, which Ireland’s Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment uses on its occupation lists.

Employment permit route signal

Possible but conditional

This is an occupation-level signal only. The exact duties, salary, qualifications, employer and permit route decide the outcome.

  • The Ineligible list entry contains an exception; the specific duties and exception must be checked rather than treating the broad code as decisive.
Check an occupation permit signal Explore employment permits

This is an occupation-level signal only. It is not a determination of eligibility, sponsorship, or permit approval.

Typical skills and qualifications

Licences

  • CE (C+E) driving licence
  • C driving licence
  • Driver CPC
  • ADR certificate

Transferable skills

  • Time management

Find licensed recruitment agencies

IrishTalents does not select or submit candidates and is not a licensed employment agency. The agency listings below reflect the wording found on agency websites only — not vacancies, sponsorship, or suitability.

Before you rely on a permit pathway

Depending on the exact duties, salary and employer, some roles in this area may be considered under Ireland's General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit routes, while others may fall on the ineligible list. This is general information only, not immigration advice, and official eligibility depends on the current occupation lists and your individual circumstances.

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About this guide

IrishTalents provides this information for general guidance only. IrishTalents is not a licensed employment agency and does not select, submit, or place candidates. This page does not determine eligibility, sponsorship, or agency suitability.

Source: IrishTalents editorial content, aligned to the UK SOC 2010 occupation classification used by Ireland's Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.