Working as a professional driver in Europe requires meeting specific legal, licensing, and skill requirements, but is prior experience always mandatory? The answer depends on the type of vehicle, license, and employer expectations.

Licensing Requirements vs. Work Experience

• Driver’s license is mandatory: Before starting as a professional driver, you must hold the appropriate license:

  • B for cars

  • C for heavy trucks

  • D for buses

  • CE, C1E, D1E for vehicles with trailers or larger combinations

• Experience is not always legally required: Many European countries do not legally mandate prior professional experience if you hold the required license. However, some employers prefer candidates with experience in commercial driving, especially for long-haul or specialized vehicles.

Employer Expectations

• New drivers can get entry-level jobs: Many logistics companies offer training programs or probationary periods for freshly licensed drivers.

• Specialized vehicles require experience: Driving heavy trucks with trailers (CE license), buses, or hazardous materials vehicles often requires prior experience due to safety regulations.

• Continuous training is common: Even experienced drivers must undergo regular training, e.g., CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) in the EU.

Factors That Influence Hiring

1. Type of vehicle: Heavy trucks, buses, and specialized vehicles usually require experience.

2. Employer policy: Some companies hire new drivers, while others insist on 1–3 years of professional driving.

3. Country-specific regulations: Certain countries may have stricter rules for commercial freight and passenger transport.

Tips for New Drivers

• Obtain the proper license first (C, D, CE, etc.).

• Complete CPC or professional driving courses if needed.

• Start with smaller vehicles or local routes to gain practical experience.

• Network with logistics companies offering trainee or entry-level positions.

Experience is not universally mandatory to work as a driver in Europe, but it enhances employability, especially for heavy trucks, buses, and long-haul routes. Holding the correct license and completing required professional training is the minimum legal requirement, while experience often opens more opportunities and higher pay.