If you’re looking for a better-paid driving job in the UK, you’re not alone. With demand for skilled drivers at an all-time high, wages have risen across the logistics, courier, and passenger-transport sectors. But which roles actually pay the most in 2025?
At Driverz Work, we’ve analysed current listings and industry salary data to bring you this year’s Top 10 Highest-Paying Driving Jobs in the UK.
1. HGV Class 1 (C+E) Driver – Up to £55,000+
Heavy Goods Vehicle Class 1 drivers continue to lead the pack. These professionals handle long-haul articulated lorries across the UK and Europe.
Why it pays well: Advanced licence requirements, long distances, and responsibility for valuable loads.
Typical salary: £45,000–£55,000, with overtime or night work boosting earnings further.
2. Tanker Driver (Fuel / Chemicals) – £50,000+
Driving tankers that transport fuel, gas, or hazardous materials demands specialist ADR training and strict safety standards.
Why it pays well: Risk, responsibility, and technical skill.
Typical salary: £48,000–£55,000 with bonuses for night or weekend shifts.
3. Heavy Haulage Driver – £45,000–£55,000
These drivers move oversized or abnormal loads—construction machinery, turbines, or military equipment.
Why it pays well: Requires route planning expertise, escort coordination, and patience.
Bonus tip: Experience with permits and escort vehicles adds real value.
4. Bus or Coach Driver (Private Hire / Tour Work) – £40,000–£50,000
Coach drivers working for premium tour companies or private charters can earn significantly more than standard route drivers.
Why it pays well: Long hours, customer service skills, and premium clientele.
Extras: Some roles include free travel or accommodation.
5. Class 2 (C) Driver – £35,000–£45,000
A Class 2 licence allows you to drive rigid lorries. Local delivery contracts and multi-drop work make it a steady, well-paid choice.
Why it pays well: Consistent demand in retail, construction, and waste sectors.
Ideal for: Drivers who prefer staying closer to home.
6. HIAB / Crane Lorry Driver – £35,000–£45,000
Operating a lorry-mounted crane takes extra certification but can open lucrative doors in building materials and plant hire.
Why it pays well: Extra skill and physical responsibility.
Add-on training: HIAB or ALLMI certification.
7. Recovery Truck Driver – £30,000–£45,000
From roadside rescues to long-distance vehicle recoveries, this job mixes driving with mechanical know-how.
Why it pays well: Unpredictable hours and call-out duties.
Perk: Often includes performance bonuses or standby pay.
8. Courier / Multi-Drop Driver – £28,000–£40,000+
The boom in e-commerce means experienced couriers can earn well—especially those using their own vans or working for same-day delivery firms.
Why it pays well: High demand and performance-based bonuses.
Tip: Consistency and local route knowledge pay off.
9. Refuse Collection Driver – £30,000–£38,000
Local councils rely on licensed drivers to manage waste-collection fleets safely.
Why it pays well: Stable hours, union backing, and strong benefits.
Good for: Drivers seeking predictable schedules and local routes.
10. Airport Transfer / Chauffeur Driver – £28,000–£40,000+
Working with executive travel firms or VIP clients can be profitable with the right presentation and timing.
Why it pays well: Premium service, flexible hours, and tipping potential.
Bonus: Great for people who enjoy meeting new faces daily.
💡 Quick Tips to Boost Your Driver Pay
- Upgrade your licence: Moving from Class 2 → Class 1 can add £10k+ per year.
- Add endorsements: ADR, HIAB, or CPC renewals can open specialist opportunities.
- Stay compliant: Up-to-date CPC and tacho records keep you job-ready.
- Use Driverz Work: Search the UK’s best-paid and most trusted driver jobs all in one place.
🚦Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to step up your career, there’s never been a better time to be a professional driver in the UK. From tankers to couriers, the road to higher pay starts with the right opportunity — and DriverzWork.co.uk helps you find it.
👉 Browse live driver jobs now at DriverzWork.co.uk and take your next career move today.