Everything You Need To Know About HGV Licence

Although thousands of people pass them consistently on the motorway, very few stop and think about what it takes to become a professional HGV Driver. Basically, Heavy Good Vehicle (HGV) Drivers are responsible for the transportation of products amongst suppliers and customers.  

The Driver CPC

When progressing towards a qualification as a Heavy Goods Vehicle driver, you will find that there are different courses open to you. Anyone wishing to drive this kind of vehicle professionally should be completely prepared and in possession of either a LGV or a HGV licence. While pursuing a professional driving licence, it is conceivable to choose a licence from Category C1, Category C, or Category C and E alongside the mandatory Driver CPC.         

The Driver CPC is a certificate of professional competence, the standard qualification all professionals should be qualified as professional HGV drivers. To gain the Driver CPC qualification, you should share in a four- section examination including two theory tests and two practical tests. Once the CPC is accomplished, you will be needed to finish 35 hours of periodic training every five years; it is important that medical examinations be completed every five years to keep the qualification valid.            

Category C

The Category C licence will enable the driver to drive vehicles weighing over 3.5 tonnes; however, the vehicle must not surpass 32 tonnes. A Class C licence, also called as a Class 2 licence, will regularly cover vehicles with cabs and trailers fixed permanently together. What is considered a ‘standard lorry’ can be driven utilizing this licence but it must not exceed 750 kilogrammes. The Category C licence is exceedingly beneficial as a stepping stone to HGV training; however, you should be over 18 to hold this licence.                   

Category C1

Category C1 is the first and most essential level of HGV training and licencing accessible. This licence is important as a step up from the regular UK driver’s licence; therefore, allowing you to drive any vehicle weighing 3,500 kg and under 7.5 tonnes in gross weight. There are a few limitations to the kind of vehicle that can be driven. Any person who passed their driver’s test before 1997 will automatically hold a Category C1 permit, so it is worth verifying to see whether this applies to your licencing as well.

Category C and E

A Category C and E permit is the most comprehensive HGV licence an individual can hold. The Category C and E permit enables a person to drive and deal with a draw-bar or explained vehicle. The E segment of this permit refers to ‘entitlement’, which implies that the driver can drive a vehicle up to and more than 750 kg in weight. The classification C and E licence is also known as the Class 1 permit enabling the driver to drive large goods-style vehicles with a double trailer when required.

Also check: The Step-by-Step Guide to getting an HGV Licence

Summary:

While the statuses of the above discussed licences do not vary, the details can vary in some cases and it is critical to remain updated. Besides, it is vital that you hold a CPC to qualify for any of the licences referenced. To do this, you have to finish a minimum 35 hours of periodic training every five years.