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Explore All Licenses
If you are looking for an HGV license training course, but not sure what to go for, our advisors are happy to help.
Category C
A Category C (Class 2) licence allows drivers to operate medium sized trucks that weigh over 7,500kg. This licence applies to rigid vehicles, which means the truck is a single unit without an articulated trailer. These are commonly used for deliveries, and construction. It’s one of the most common HGV licences and is often referred to as a ‘Class 2’ licence.
Vehicles driven after obtaining this HGV licence training include refuse trucks, large delivery trucks, and some types of construction vehicles like cement mixers or tippers. Essentially, it covers most large trucks that are not articulated (i.e., do not bend in the middle).
If the vehicle pulls a trailer, the trailer’s maximum allowable weight is 750 kg. Any heavier trailer would require a C+E licence.
Once you pass the Category C licence, you will also gain the Category C1 (7.5 tonne) entitlement.
Key Information:
Must be 18+
4 Day Course
Also referred to as ‘Class 2’, or ‘Rigid’
Popular for new drivers looking to gain their experience
Category C+E
A Category C+E (Class 1) licence allows you to drive any heavy goods vehicle with a trailer attached. This licence is often referred to as ‘Artic,’ short for articulated, meaning the vehicle consists of a separate cab and trailer. The C+E is commonly utilised for long-distance deliveries, international routes, and tramping work. This licence is essential for anyone looking to drive the largest vehicles in the HGV industry. Many drivers view the C+E licence as the pinnacle of HGV driving qualifications.
Employers favour those who can diversify between rigid and artics. The licence unlocks a variety of driving roles, whether you are moving multiple cars simultaneously, or moving shipping containers between ports and distribution centers, the work is always exciting. Many C+E jobs also give you the opportunity to deliver internationally. Drivers can expect a salary of up to £45k, with the opportunity to exceed this with experience and additional qualifications, such as an ADR licence.
Due to new government regulations, anyone wanting to complete their full HGV licence has the option of a Fast Track C+E course, allowing you to skip the Category C (Class 2) and go straight to Category C+E (Class 1). This change was implemented in November 2021. This is extremely popular as it offers drivers more career opportunities when finding work.
– 4 Day course if you hold a Category C (Class 2) license
– 6 Day course if you hold a Category B (Car) license
The C+E licence also allows you to drive drawbars. This is a combination of a rigid truck coupled with a trailer.
Key Information:
- Must be 18+
Often referred to as ‘Class 1’ or ‘Artic’
- Less drops
Ideal for drivers looking to maximise earning potential
Course duration dependent on experience
Category C1
A Category C1 licence allows you to drive rigid vehicles between 3,500 and 7,500 kg. Often called a ‘7.5 tonne’ vehicle, the Category C1 is a smaller version of the Category C. Like the Cat C, the C1 is a rigid body vehicle and is designed as a single unit, handling similarly to a car or van. This course is common for those pursuing careers as ambulance drivers, paramedics, trades, and for people who own horseboxes or motorhomes.
Car licences issued before January 1997 have automatic rights to drive vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes (known as ‘grandfather rights’)
If you wish to tow a trailer weighing more than 750kg, you will need a C1+E licence. Please note the combined weight must not exceed 12 tonnes.
Key Information:
- Must be 18+
3 Day Course
Commonly needed for ambulance drivers, paramedics, horseboxes and motorhomes
PCV Licenses
A PCV Licence, or Passenger Carrying Vehicle Licence, is a specific driving qualification required to operate vehicles designed to transport passengers. This licence is crucial for anyone looking to work in roles that involve driving buses, coaches, or minibuses.
Key Information:
Must be 18+
Consists of D1 and D categories
Ideal for those pursuing careers in public transport
3-5 Day courses
Category D
People who passed their Category B car test before January 1997, will already have Category D1 on their driving licence.
Category D1
People who passed their Category B car test before January 1997, will already have Category D1 on their driving licence.
HIAB License
A HIAB licence allows individuals to operate lorry-mounted cranes, commonly referred to as “HIABs” (Hydraulic Integrated Arm and Boom). These cranes are typically attached to trucks and are used to load and unload heavy or bulky goods directly from the vehicle. This licence is often used in the construction industry and is a great way to further your HGV career.
Key Information:
ALLMI, ITTSAR, and RTITB accreditations are available.
Novice and Refresher courses
1-2 Days training
Your choice of Hook, Grab or Clam attachments
ADR License
An ADR Licence is a certification that allows drivers to transport dangerous goods by road. “ADR” stands for “Accord européen relatif au transport international des marchandises Dangereuses par Route,” which translates to the “European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road.” This certification is crucial for HGV drivers who need to handle materials that could pose risks to health, safety, or the environment.
CPC
A CPC, or Certificate of Professional Competence, is a legal requirement for almost all HGV and PCV license holders that wish to drive professionally. It ensures that drivers possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties safely and efficiently. It’s important to note you could face fines of up to £1,000 for driving professionally without it.
Which type of CPC is relevant to me?
As a professional HGV driver, you are required to complete ongoing training every five years, amounting to 35 hours in total. These 35 hours are generally split into 5 separate days, lasting 7 hours each – so around an average working day. But don’t worry, there is no pass or fail element to the courses, all you need to do is show up.
This training covers a range of pertinent topics such as Digital and Analogue Tachographs, Working Time Regulations, Safe Loading and Restraints, First Aid, and Driver Health and Wellbeing.
This is broken up into 2 modules:
Module 2 – Case Study Test
This test assesses various real-world driving situations you may face on the road. It consists of 7 case studies, each with 6 to 8 multiple-choice questions. This usually takes 40 minutes to complete.
Module 4 – Practical Demonstration Test
Once you have passed your Module 2, you can take your Module 4 test.
This test focuses on your ability to manage vehicle safety and understand your responsibilities as a professional HGV driver, without requiring actual driving. You will demonstrate your answers practically in a real vehicle. This usually takes 30 minutes to complete.
Upon successful completion, you will receive a Driver Qualification Card (DQC), a certificate valid for 5 years. During this period, and every 5 years thereafter, drivers must complete Driver CPC periodic training.
Testimonials
Hear From Our Students
Just passed my C1 licence
Ethan was a great help right the way through the course. Everything I needed to do was explained clearly and made easy to complete. My instructor John was informative and gave me a lot of support. Very pleased I passed both theory and practical first time.
- Terry Goode
The comprehensive coverage of HIAB…
The comprehensive coverage of HIAB operations, including load handling and equipment maintenance. The instructor demonstrated exceptional knowledge of the HIAB equipment and industry standards.
The training has significantly increased my confidence in operating HIAB.
I am very satisfied with the training- It was well-organised from beginning and very informative. Thank you very much guys- A+++
- Przemyslaw
The Train HGV team was awesome
The Train HGV team was awesome. Mega helpful and knowledgeable. Just finished my CAT C and I can’t recommend the service enough. Whole process wrapped up in 6 weeks
- Mark
Helpful team
Used Train HGV to purchase a course and get my license. The staff were helpful and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend.
- Consumer
Highly recommend!
I bought a C+E and the team couldn’t have been more helpful during the process, I really recommend the train hgv guys!
- David
Great Team with Excellent Knowledge
Great Team with Excellent Knowledge! The team were all very helpful, and provided an impeccable service. Would highly recommend
- Jamie Brown
Great experience!
The team member answered any questions I had about the process and helped me out massively. Saved me a bunch of time
- Will Macgowan
Incredible team!
All of my questions were answered clearly and the process was unbelievably smooth.
Cannot recommend them enough!
- Jay
Get to know us
What’s Our Mission?
Founded with a clear mission to provide a personal service at an affordable price, TrainHGV are dedicated to supporting the next generation of professional drivers with HGV license training and connecting them with the best job opportunities.
We Offer Recruitment Services
Our commitment to your success doesn’t end once you have passed your HGV license training. We specialise in helping newly qualified drivers find their first job in the industry. Our recruitment service connects you with reputable employers who are eager to bring new talent on board, making your transition from training to employment as smooth as possible.
