The United Kingdom’s logistics industry transfers 1.6 billion tonnes of goods annually, while playing a crucial role in the nation’s economy. HGV driver candidates sometimes struggle to identify which type of licensing category matches their career ambitions. Many do not know how to start or advance in this growing field. Worry not! Read on for clarity.
The Complete Selection of HGV Licences in the United Kingdom
In the UK, HGV licenses are classified according to the vehicle’s dimensions, weight, and configuration. The categories are as follows:
- Category C1: This licence pertains to vehicles with a weight range of 3.5 to 7.5 tonnes, typically utilised for small delivery trucks, ambulances and utility vehicles. This opportunity is well-suited for individuals pursuing a career in logistics or managing lightweight vehicles. Candidates are required to be a minimum of 18 years of age and possess a standard UK car licence.
- Category C1+E: This builds on the C1 licence and allows the carriage of trailers in excess of 750 kg provided its weight combined with that of the vehicle does not exceed 12 tonnes. Though it needs the capacity to deal with the additional complexity of trailer moves, it is ideal for moving heavy loads with a light vehicle and trailer.
- Category C (Class 2 Licence): Category C licence permits operation of rigid body vehicles over 7.5 tonnes, such as garbage trucks, box lorries and specific construction equipment. Applicants must have a Category B licence and complete both the theoretical and practical HGV assessments. Class 2 drivers often land roles within the urban delivery or construction sectors.
- Category C+E (Class 1 Licence): Class 1, or Category C+E, is the highest HGV licence which qualifies you to drive articulated lorries with detachable trailers, perfect for long haul drivers who want to earn as much as possible.Understanding the difference between Class 1 and Class 2is crucial— Class 2 allows only rigid vehicles, but it calls the shots (it opens doors to advanced roles in logistics) while Class 1 allows towing trailers and handling large vehicles.
- Category D: Technically a passenger vehicle licence, it’s worth a mention as it allows bus and coach drivers with more than 8 passenger seats. You must be at least 24 years of age and medically qualified.
- Category D1: This licence is for minibuses with not more than 16 passenger seats and 8 tonnes max weight. It also enables towing a small trailer weighing to 750 kg.
Why Choose HGVT for Your Training?
With so many categories, choosing the right HGV licence can be rather overwhelming. HGVT a leader in HGV trainingbased in the United Kingdom, offers courses to suit any licence type, ensuring you have the skills and expertise you need to succeed in your driving career.
A spokesperson for HGVT, Gary Benardout comments, “At HGVT, we don’t just help you pass your test, we provide you with tools to succeed in a career that helps the nation progress.”
Aspiring drivers can access high quality support with innovative training opportunities through CPC modules, advanced simulators and flexible payment options at nationwide centres provided by HGVT. We do hope that things seem pretty simple now.
