FAQs
1. What makes Armstrongs different from other heavy vehicle training providers?
With over 65 years of experience, Armstrongs goes beyond basic licence acquisition. We are committed to developing low-risk, job-ready drivers through structured, high-quality training aligned with real industry needs.
2. How long has Armstrongs been in operation?
Armstrongs was established in 1958. With a proven track record spanning more than six decades, we’ve built a strong reputation for exceptional service, high pass rates and professional training that produces real results.
3. What is the Driver Delivery Program (DDP®) and how successful is it?
The DDP® is our flagship training and employment program. Since 2016, over 900 learners have completed the program, with more than 400 job placements facilitated through our partnership with the Victorian Transport Association (VTA). It consistently delivers an 83% job placement rate and has also helped address the bus driver shortage by training over 500 new drivers for major operators like Transdev, Kinetic and CDC.
4. What kind of vehicles will I train in?
Our training fleet reflects real industry equipment and includes Mack Anthems (HC & MC), UD Condor & Quons (HR & HC), Hino (HR & MR) and Isuzu (MR & HR). You’ll gain experience using the same vehicles you'll likely drive on the job.
5. How does Armstrongs ensure training quality and relevance?
Our programs are benchmarked against international best practices, drawing insights from Canada and the USA. We don’t just comply with local standards, we aim to lead the industry with globally informed, forward-thinking training.
6. What qualifications do Armstrongs trainers have?
All Armstrongs trainers complete a comprehensive 6 to 8-week onboarding program covering over 130 instructional and driving competencies essential for low-risk performance. Ongoing professional development ensures consistent, high-quality instruction tailored to learner needs.
7. Is short-course licensing training enough to become job-ready?
No. Many Victorian providers offer training limited to 5 to 8 hours, which often falls short of producing safe, employable drivers. Armstrongs delivers longer, structured training programs designed to address this gap and build genuine on-road competence.
8. How many hours of training do I need to become a safe heavy vehicle driver?
Evidence from the DDP® shows that learners require a minimum of 38 hours of structured, one-on-one, on-road instruction to reach unconscious competence in a heavy rigid (automatic) vehicle. This benchmark assumes learners have strong English proficiency and no learning difficulties.
9. Is Armstrongs involved in broader industry reform?
Yes. Our CEO is the current Chair of the Heavy Vehicle Training Association (HVTA) and plays an active role in working with government and industry to improve heavy vehicle training and assessment standards in Victoria and beyond.
10. Does Armstrongs offer any online learning support?
Yes. We offer proprietary eLearning modules designed to complement practical training. These resources help build knowledge, reinforce learning and boost confidence, especially valuable for new entrants to the industry.
11. What kind of experience can I expect as a student at Armstrongs?
We’re proud to deliver one of the highest-rated training experiences in the industry. Our 5-star Google reviews consistently reflect our commitment to professionalism, care and high-quality service, from your first enquiry to graduation.
12. Do I need experience to get a job as a heavy vehicle driver?
While experience is traditionally valued, many experienced drivers are self-taught and have never received formal training in the 130+ areas required for low-risk driving. Increasingly, employers are recognising the value of well-trained New Entry Level Drivers (NELD) who demonstrate low-risk driving techniques, professionalism and strong communication skills often preferring these qualities over unverified experience.
13. How is the industry changing in terms of recruitment?
Faced with an ongoing driver shortage, employers are shifting their focus toward structured training and competency rather than just experience. They’re looking for drivers who:
- Demonstrate low-risk driving competence
- Require minimal post-employment upskilling
- Align with company values and safety culture
- Show professionalism and clear communication
- Have a strong commitment to a long-term transport career
14. How much training is typically required to become a safe and employable driver?
Here’s how training duration correlates to employment potential and risk:
| Duration | Description | Employment Potential | Driver Risk Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Day | Meets minimum requirement | Very Low | High |
| 2 Days | Basic/intermediate skills | Low–Medium | Medium–High |
| 3 Days | Stronger urban driving skills | Medium | Medium |
| 4 Days | Solid urban skillset | Medium–High | Medium–Low |
| 5 Days | Urban + rural low-risk skills | High | Low |
*Assumes average learner aptitude.
Longer, structured programs provide a deeper low risk driving skill base and stronger employment outcomes.
15. What sets a job-ready new driver apart from others?
Successful new drivers typically display:
- Structured training and substantial behind-the-wheel hours
- A focus on road and workplace safety
- Clear and professional communication
- Coachability and a positive attitude
- Professional presentation and conduct
- Motivation for a long-term transport career
- Solid foundational knowledge of the industry
16. How does Armstrongs tailor training to individual learning styles?
We understand people learn in different ways:
- Visual learners need to see concepts illustrated
- Auditory learners benefit from structured explanation
- Kinaesthetic learners learn best through hands-on experience
Our trainers adjust their methods to support your preferred learning style. Learners with language or comprehension challenges receive additional guidance through demonstration, repetition and slower-paced delivery. Additional training time may be required to achieve licence outcomes in these cases.
17. What can I do to get the most out of my training?
To succeed, learners should:
- Ask questions if something isn’t clear
- Practice regularly between lessons
- Understand the reasoning behind techniques
- Take ownership of their learning progress
- Let trainers know how they learn best so the approach can be adapted
Our trainers are there to support you but it’s your effort and engagement that determine the outcome.
18. What should I expect during my licence assessment?
Feeling nervous is completely normal. The key is to trust your training, stay focused on the moment and drive in a safe, legal and low-risk manner as you were taught. A minor mistake doesn’t mean failure, regain your composure, follow procedure and continue safely until the assessment is complete.