Licence Types and How To Get Them
If you’re considering a career as an HGV driver and you’re confused by the licence types, what they mean, what you can drive with each licence and how you get them – then read on.
The Licence Types
Class C (Important)
Fire engines, rubbish collection lorries and HGVs fall in to this class. The vehicles will weigh more than 3500kgs and you have a 750kgs trailer allowance, but it can’t be a separate or detachable trailer.
Class C+E (Important)
You can only get this licence type once you’ve passed you Class C test. The only extra you get with this licence type is that the trailer can be detachable or separate – so this is great for larger vehicles or long-haul deliveries.
Class C1
This probably isn’t going to be at the top of your ‘licences to get’ list because it entitles you to drive things like Tesco food delivery vans and horseboxes.
Class C1+E
You’ve probably already guessed that this is the Class C1 + E, so you get the same as the C+E, but with the extra ability to drive horseboxes etc.
How to Get Your Licence
Now you have a clearer idea of which licences you might want to get, probably a Class C it’s a good idea to consider whether you need the driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence). If you’re between 18-21 you need it whether you’re going to drive for work or not. If you’re over 21 you only need it if you’re going to drive professionally.
The Process
- Complete this medical form and this application form (D2/D4 pack)
- Send to the DVLA in Swansea
- Receive Provisional in 10-14 days
- Book and pass your theory test (our guide here)
- Book and pass your practical test here
- If you need CPC, complete module 4 for your CPC
Now it might seem like it’s an easy process and if you put in the hard work and prepare properly – there’s no reason why you can’t do it. For guidance on what to do once you’ve passed and you’re looking for work – contact us here.
