How HGV drivers get their COVID-19 test before leaving the UK for France, Denmark and the Netherlands.
COVID-19 test requirements in different countries update, 18 January 2021
Several countries have introduced COVID-19 testing requirements for hauliers. The rules are different in each country. Check the rules before you travel and take the necessary action.
You need a negative test result before you travel to France, Denmark and the Netherlands.
You can get a free COVID-19 test at a haulier advice site offering testing if you’re:
- an HGV driver or crew
- a van or other light goods vehicle (LGV) driver
Kent travel update: 6 January 2021, COVID testing
More COVID-19 testing facilities open for HGV drivers and crew.
HGVs leaving England for France can only cross the Channel with evidence of an authorised negative COVID test, that has been conducted within the 72-hour period before their departure.
Drivers and crew of HGVs, and drivers of LGVs and vans can get a free COVID test at many haulier advice sites.
We strongly advise drivers and crew to get a negative test before they travel to Kent or other Channel crossing points.
HGV drivers using Dover and Eurotunnel will get fast-tracked past queues if they get tested, and have a valid Kent Access Permit, before arriving in Kent.
COVID testing is not available at any medical facility in the Kent area. If you visit a medical facility you will be turned away.
You must not leave your vehicle to try and be tested at another site.
Once tested, it will take 40 minutes to get a result.
If your result is negative, you will be directed to your departure point.
If your result is positive, further information will be provided on site and support will be available.
We are doing everything we can as quickly as possible to help you continue on your journey. Thank you for your patience.
Drivers should check @KentHighways and Highways England for the latest traffic updates before travelling to Kent.
Kent Access Permits
HGV drivers must have correct documentation, including Kent Access Permits, before arriving in Kent to ensure they can cross the Channel.
HGVs carrying dangerous goods
Drivers of HGVs carrying certain types of dangerous goods must get tested for COVID-19 before arriving in Kent.
The terms of use at Manston Airport and Ashford Sevington prohibit the following loads:
- explosives
- polymerizing substances
- infectious substances
- radioactive substances
- goods that are high consequence from a terrorism point of view
Drivers of HGVs carrying any of these goods will be refused access to these sites and must get tested for COVID-19 at alternative sites before arriving in Kent.
If you are not sure whether your load falls into one of these categories of dangerous goods, confirm with your company or consignor before departing from the depot.
Testing is available at various information and advice sites across the UK. Check whether the motorway service station or truck stop you plan to visit has any restrictions for certain dangerous goods before you travel.
Some companies are also providing private testing for their drivers. Check with your company if this is being offered.
From: Department for Transport
Published 23 December 2020
Last updated 18January 2021
Hauliers need a negative COVID-19 test result before travelling to France, Denmark and the Netherlands.
COVID testing is now open at more haulier advice sites.
Drivers of HGVs carrying certain types of dangerous goods must get tested for COVID-19 before arriving in Kent.
Eight more haulier advice sites are offering COVID-19 testing.
Five more haulier advice sites now offering free COVID-19 testing for HGV drivers and drivers of light goods vehicles and vans.
COVID-19 testing for HGV drivers available at some haulier advice sites.
HGVs leaving England for France can only cross the Channel with evidence of an authorised negative COVID test that has been conducted within the 72-hour period before their departure.
HGV drivers heading to the Port of Dover should get a COVID test at Manston Airport. HGV drivers heading to Eurotunnel should get a COVID test at junction 8 on the M20.
Updated Covid testing information for HGV drivers already in Kent going to the Port of Dover.
Congestion in Kent eased but HGV drivers still advised to avoid Kent.
First published.
