Tax Return for HGV Drivers
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track contract income
- Subsistence expense support
- Training and licensing costs
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical hgv drivers earnings £38,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for HGV Drivers
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Overnight Subsistence
Meals and overnight accommodation when away from home.
Tip: HMRC scale rates apply for overnight stays.
HGV Licence and CPC
Driving licence renewals, Driver CPC training, and digital tachograph cards.
Tip: Keep certificates and receipts for all training.
Medical Examinations
Medical examinations required for HGV licence renewal.
Tip: Medical costs are fully deductible.
PPE and Work Clothing
Safety boots, hi-vis clothing, and protective equipment.
Tip: PPE is fully deductible.
More expenses you can claim
HGV Drivers Industry Insights
Essential information about working as a hgv drivers in the UK
Average Hourly Rate
£14 – £22
Class 1 (articulated) drivers earn more than Class 2
Common Structure
sole trader
Owner-operators are typically sole traders; employed drivers don't need Self Assessment unless other income
IR35 Considerations
May apply to this profession
IR35 rules may affect your tax status. Check your employment status carefully for each contract.
Required Certifications & Qualifications
When Do HGV Drivers Earn Most?
Understanding seasonal demand helps you plan your income and expenses throughout the tax year.
Peak Demand Periods
Quieter Periods
Industry Insight
Retail sector demand drives peak periods; agency rates can double before Christmas
Tax tip: During quieter periods, use the time to organise receipts, update your records, and plan for upcoming tax deadlines.
Tax Tips for HGV Drivers
Specific tax considerations to maximise your deductions and stay compliant
Overnight subsistence allowance (£26.20/night in UK, varies abroad)
CPC renewal training is tax-deductible
Work boots and PPE are allowable expenses
If agency, check employment status carefully
These tips are based on UK tax rules for the 2024/25 tax year. For personalised advice, consult a qualified accountant.
How to File Your Tax Return
Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment
Gather Your Documents
Collect income records, receipts, and expense statements
Enter Income & Expenses
Add your earnings and claim allowable expenses with our guided flow
Review Your Calculation
See exactly how much tax you owe with real-time calculations
Submit to HMRC
File your tax return directly to HMRC in minutes
Key Deadlines for 2024/25 Tax Year
Don't miss these important dates
5 April 2025
Tax Year Ends
Calculate your final income and expenses
5 October 2025
Register for Self Assessment
If this is your first year self-employed
31 January 2026
Online Filing Deadline
Submit your tax return and pay any tax owed
6 April 2026
MTD Starts (£50k+)
If your income exceeds £50,000, you must use MTD software
Late Filing Penalties
1 day late: £100 fixed penalty
3 months late: £10/day up to £900
6 months late: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is higher)
12 months late: Additional 5% or £300
Plus interest on any tax paid late. Avoid these costs by filing early with QTax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about tax returns for hgv drivers
Do agency HGV drivers need to register as self-employed?
If you work through an agency as self-employed or provide your own vehicle, you must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim meal costs?
Yes. HMRC allows flat-rate subsistence for overnight stays. Day meals are only deductible if part of an overnight trip.
What about CPC training?
Driver CPC training and periodic refresher courses are allowable business expenses.
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK hgv drivers who trust QTax for their Self Assessment