J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd Reviews 2,317

TrustScore 5 out of 5

5.0

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Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Looking at 204 reviews, reviewers overwhelmingly had a great experience with this company. Customers consistently praise the staff for their patience, guidance, and supportive approach, making the learning process less stressful and more effective. Many highlight the instructors' knowledge and professionalism, which significantly contributes to their success in passing tests, often on the first attempt. The overall service is described as excellent, with people appreciating the clear instructions and well-organized process from start to finish. However, some customers also noted issues with certain instructors, describing them as unapproachable or lacking sufficient knowledge of training routes. A few other people also felt that the training facilities were inadequate, with concerns about the lack of basic amenities and insufficient practice time in vehicles.

What people talk about most

Staff

Consumers find staff to be positive, with many reviewers praising instructors for their professionalism,... See more

User experience

People report positive experiences with user experience, often describing it as a great experience from start... See more

Service

Reviewers mention positive feedback about service, with many highlighting the professionalism, friendliness,... See more

Instructions

Customers had positive experiences with instructions, praising instructors for their professionalism,... See more

Customer service

Reviewers highlight positive aspects of customer service, with many appreciating the support, guidance, and... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Would like to thank J Coates ( HGV Services ) Ltd for helping me pass my C E HGV licence at first attempt. A big ‘thank you’ to Alec Steer for organising my courses, his colleagues at Melton for hel... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I would like to extend my thanks again to J Coates (Leicester) for helping me gain my C1 licence this week. In particular my instructor Simon who is a sound bloke, easy to talk to and offered lots of... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Massive thank you to the legend that is Kelly for getting me through my Class 1 first time with only 3 minors! She is knowledgeable, patient, encouraging and genuinely cares about teaching you to be... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I'm brand new into the world of HGV and J Coates have looked after me very well. Alec Steer has guided me through the requirements, the reversing course team were super flexible when I forgot my licen... See more

Company replied


Company details

  1. Driving school

Written by the company

Specialists in Freight Transport and Passenger Transport Training. Established in 1970, J Coates offer the best in Driver & Transport Training to the Road Transport, Distribution, Passenger Transport and related industries.


Contact info

5.0

Excellent

TrustScore 5 out of 5

2k reviews

5-star
4-star
3-star
2-star
1-star

No history of asking for reviews

This company hasn't invited their customers, so reviews may not be representative

Replied to 100% of negative reviews

Typically replies within 24 hours

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Had a great course and passed my C+E…

Had a great course and passed my C+E first time. My instructor Kelly was great and had good knowledge and advice.

20 March 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We genuinely admire your positive feedback! Congratulations on passing your C+E first time with Kelly. Thank you for choosing J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

“Passed My HGV Class 1 – Huge Thanks to Liam!”

Massive thank you to Liam for helping me pass my HGV Class 1 test! From day one he was fully committed to getting me through. His training style is clear, patient and very professional, and he makes sure you understand everything properly rather than just rushing through it.

Liam goes the extra mile for his students and really puts in the effort to build your confidence and driving skills. I couldn’t have asked for a better trainer. If you’re thinking of doing your HGV training, Liam is the man to go to. Highly recommended!

13 March 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're excited to hear about your success with Liam for your HGV Class 1 training! Thank you for recommending us and a huge congratulations, enjoy the licence.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars

This is12 months ago (Reason for…

This is12 months ago (Reason for putting up my review up now, is because I am a regular reviewer, I hadn't done a review here, Hence I got a reminder come through that came up saying I hadn't left my opinion, & I want people to make sure they know what to do for when looking to book training,
So here I am. :)

Going from my C to C+E

My 3A (Coupling/uncoupling trailer and reversing) they passed me YAY... But, I believe I had concern's on my pass and didnt mention it at the time to them, and I wish I did and they swear they wouldnt have passed me/anyone and maybe this review would have been differant

3B Training
On my way to the test centre for my on road test after four days of training, there was an accident on the way to the test centre, and turned up late for my test, and couldn't take my test, when I got home I called the company and after a long frustrating difference of opinion conversation over the phone, they re-booked my test and as its so expencive for the training I couldn't afford extra hours before my next new 3B test, due to the booking dates available I had to wait for weeks without being able to afford the extra few hours of refreshed training, Anyway, I failed, I suppose this wasn't totally their I fault my 3B, but they wasn't approachable "in my opinion" or understanding as conversations with them that "they were right, and I'm not, again, as not knowing as much as them, I wasfeeling very uneasy

Reasons I believe I failed wasnt hepled by the instructor who was teaching me was new to training! yes he knows how to take corners etc but didnt know the route enough at all, I thought they had to have extra intence training in knowing where the routes are, (Now I know we all have to start somewhere) But it would have made it easier training for the me/pupil if the route was known properly, without missing turnings that I should have taken... I felt uneasy with my instructor & what with nerves on top didnt help. He was crude rude and of no interest in what was happening

I've now passed my C+E somewhere else and can see the pros & cons of researching the training companies that are out there.

(DO YOUR RESEARCH) dont be affraid to ask question's, No question's are stupid question's
Don't be afraid like I was, and not pull up any concerns AT THE TIME, after all it's a lot of money your handing over. I've learnt the instructor is no longer with them, what does that tell you!
I wouldn't recommend this company
DONT USE J.COATES

10 May 2025
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Hi Steven,
Thank you for taking the time to leave a detailed review and for explaining the reason you’ve posted it now. We appreciate all feedback, including when it highlights areas where a customer feels their experience could have been better.
We would like to clarify a few points for accuracy and to give some context for other readers.
Part 3A
All Part 3A results are assessed and awarded based on the required standard and competence shown on the day. We do not pass anyone unless they demonstrate the correct capability, and we take DVSA standards very seriously. If you had any concerns at the time, we would always encourage customers to raise these immediately so we can address them there and then.
Part 3B – Missed Test Due to Accident
We understand that the road incident on the way to the test centre was very frustrating and not within anyone’s control. Despite this, we supported you by arranging a free re-test at our own cost, even though the delay was not caused by our training delivery. We always aim to support customers fairly where we can.
Training & Instructor Concerns
We’re sorry to hear you felt uneasy during your training. All of our instructors are qualified, experienced professional drivers and are required to deliver training to the correct standard. That said, we recognise that confidence and comfort with an instructor is an important part of learning, and we always encourage learners to raise any concerns during training so we can make adjustments immediately. The instructor in question no longer works for J Coates.
Final Thoughts
We’re pleased to hear you have since passed your C+E, and we wish you the best moving forward in your driving career. We also agree with your advice that people should research training providers and feel confident asking questions — we always welcome that.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Mod 4 CPC

I have had a great experience doing my mod 4 CPC i was with a really nice group and we had Simon and Liam as our instructors who were both brilliant and explained everything so well I got a 100% pass, I’m so happy and would always recommend j Coats to anyone wanting to get their HGV qualifications!!

7 March 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're overjoyed to hear about your positive experience with our Mod 4 CPC course! Congratulations on your 100% pass, and thank you for recommending J Coates to others.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Just passed my class 1 with Lincoln…

Just passed my class 1 with Lincoln college and j coates training. Kelly swift the instructor was amazing and very professional I'd give 10 stars if I could. She helped me and guided me every step of the way through her professional knowledge and first class instructing big thanks to Kelly and all the staff at j coates and Lincoln college

6 March 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Thank you very much for your kind feedback, Mark. We're delighted to hear you had such a positive experience with Kelly Swift and the team at J Coates Training. Congratulations on passing your Class 1, and we wish you every success in your future driving career.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great team of people

A great help in assisting me in getting my C1 license. Friendly instructors who make the process a whole lot less stressful and do a brilliant job in getting you ready for your test.

A big thank you specifically to both Kelly and Simon who assisted me throughout my training. Your guidance, support and professionalism was greatly appreciated.

Would recommend you both to anyone!

5 March 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Your positive experience is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your feedback, congratulations and good luck with everything!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great experience learning with Liam…

Great experience learning with Liam today. Did everything to benefit my learning throughout the day with B&E refresher training. Would highly recommend.

4 March 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're utterly delighted to hear about your great experience learning with Liam. Thank you for your wonderful feedback.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Lewis is a legend

Great experience with J Coates. Lewis was brilliant. Wealth of experience, excellent teacher, really nice guy. Someone you dont mind sharing the cab with, very observant but doesnt make you feel like youre under the microscope. 5/5 Thanks!

24 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Thank you for the fantastic review! We’re so pleased you had a great experience with Lewis — we’ll be sure to pass on your kind words.
Huge congratulations on passing, and all the very best moving forward!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A high recommendation to instructor…

A high recommendation to instructor Liam who was my instructor during my Cat C course and resulted in me passing first time with 0 minors. He was very patient and created a comfortable atmosphere during every lesson.

27 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're pleased to hear about your positive experience with instructor Liam during your Cat C course. Thank you for your wonderful feedback and a huge congratulations passing with zero faults!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Simon wynn,Great driving instructor

Simon wynn,Great driving instructor — patient, clear, and calm throughout every lesson. He explained everything in a way that was easy to understand and helped me build confidence behind the wheel. I always felt safe, supported, and well‑prepared for my test. Highly recommend.(category C)

27 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Thank you for your review. We are glad to hear that Simon was a great driving instructor for you. Your feedback is much appreciated. Congratulations with your 1st time pass, enjoy the licence!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I passed my c1+e first to time today…

I passed my c1+e first to time today with Kelly she had been amazing instructor and I would 100% recommend this company.

27 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We are absolutely thrilled to hear about your successful experience with Kelly. Congratulations and thank you for recommending our company!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Cat C training with Liam

I spent the week on my Cat C training with Liam. He was brilliant, his teaching technique prepared me well for the test and trained for real life scenarios. He highlighted the key points well and helped build confidence. Resulting in 1 minor! Thanks Liam, Take care.

19 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We are happy to hear about your positive experience with Liam during your Cat C training. Your review is appreciated. Thank you for sharing your experience, congratulations and enjoy the licence!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Thanks to instructor Liam

Just a massive thank you to my instructor Liam - he made me experience gaining my Cat C license seamless. His approach was excellent, ensuring I was comfortable throughout. His knowledge and experience played a huge part in my passing first time with no minors. Thank you again - highly recommend Liam!

19 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're ecstatic to hear about your seamless experience gaining your Cat C license with Liam. Thank you for recommending him! Good luck with everything and enjoy the licence.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Thank you!

Thank you so much to J Coates, and Alec Steer for organising the course! I had the best time with Kelly, the instructor, who not only helped develop my driving, but also made the experience so fun and memorable! I felt super prepared for the test, and would definitely recommend the company to others!

16 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're pleased to hear about your positive experience with our company and instructors. Thank you for sharing your feedback, Good luck with everything!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A big big massive thank you to Kelly…

A big big massive thank you to Kelly for all her time and help with getting me through my hgv class 2 I really wouldn’t off done it without her time and patience all her hard work payed off for me 110% recommendations

13 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're delighted to hear about your positive experience with Kelly at J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd. Thank you for sharing your feedback Kelly will be thrilled! Congratulations and good luck with everything.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Just finished a weeks CPC course with…

Just finished a weeks CPC course with Chris. He was very friendly and knowledgeable, made sure it was done in a way that meant we stayed focused and engaged and also understood what was being discussed. Would highly recommend J Coates for CPC !!!

9 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Thank you immensely for your positive feedback on our CPC course with Chris. We deeply respect your recommendation and are thrilled to hear about your experience.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Cpc course

I would like to thank j Coates and Chris the instructor for an enjoyable 35 hrs cpc course and given me a lot of knowledge for the start of my new career as a driver cheers Chris outstanding

13 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Thank you for your review, Gary! We're glad to hear you found the CPC course enjoyable and gained valuable knowledge for your new career as a driver. Cheers to your outstanding experience with J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Massive thank you to J Coates

Massive thank you to J Coates, especially to Kelly my instructor helping me pass my Cat C and also my Reversing. Couldn’t recommend them enough.
Tom

13 February 2026
Unprompted review
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Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

Thanks so much for the great review! Huge congratulations on passing your Cat C and reversing 👏 We’ll make sure Kelly sees your kind words.

All the best from the J Coates Team!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Online CPC courses with Chris. Brilliant experience!!

Just finished two days of online CPC with Chris. What could have been a really dull experience was actually really enjoyable. Chris is extremely good at what he does and I really enjoyed my two days with Chris and the other guys on the course. Top marks Chris 👍👍

10 February 2026
Unprompted review
J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd logo

Reply from J Coates (HGV Services) Ltd

We're delighted to hear that you had a brilliant experience with our online CPC courses. Thank you for your positive feedback!

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