[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When looking to qualify as a HGV driver, there are many routes open to you. As per the EU directive, a Heavy Goods Vehicle is anything weighing more than 3,500kg, and anyone who wishes to drive such vehicles professionally needs to be fully trained and in possession of a licence. There is not just one kind of HGV or LGV licence out there though, so you can pick what kind you want to persue. You can choose from category C1, C or C+E, alongside the mandatory Driver CPC.
Driver CPC
Driver CPC stands for Certificate of Professional Competence, and is the standard qualification all HGV drivers need to be able to drive professionally.
In order to gain an Initial Driver CPC you must take part in a 4-part examination, made up of 4 modules completed in the following order:
- Module 1, Theory & Hazard Perception Test
- Mosule 3, the Practical Training/Driving Test
- Module 2, an online case study
- Module 4, a “Show & Tell” 30 minute practical test
Once you have completed and passed all 4 modules, you are awarded your Driver CPC. In order to keep it valid, you are then required to undergo 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years, and present proof that this has been done. Not only that, but you must also provide proof of medical health. Before you apply for your provisional licence you must pass a HGV medical and eye test. Then every 5 years, depending on your age, either complete a medical self-assessment or when you reach 45, pass another HGV medical.
Category C1
Category C1 is the very first, basic level of HGV training and licensing that you can acheive. This licence is essentially a step up from a regular Uk driver’s licence, and allows you to drive a vehicle of 3,500kg as long as that vehicle is under 7.5 tonnes in gros weight. There are very few limits to what the form of that vehicle can be – it can be set up as a lorry, truck or a tractor trailer setup in which you tow a trailer, restrictions may apply. Anyone who passed their category B/car test before 1997 automatically has a C1 licence as well, so it’s worth checking to see if this applies to you.
Category C
A category C licence allows drivers to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes. Category C (or Class 2 as they are otherwise known) licences typically cover rigid vehicles, rather than articulated ones. In other words, what we would consider a ‘standard lorry’. While you have this licence you may also tow a trailer, but the weight must not exceed 750 kilograms. This licence is a stepping stone within HGV training – a way to move onto the category C+E licence. You must be over 18 to have this licence.
Category C+E
A category C+E licence is the most comprehensive HGV licence you can hold. With this licence, drivers can drive and handle a draw bar or articulated vehicle. The E part of the category C+E licence stands for entitlement, and means that the bearer can also tow a trailer exceeding 750 kilograms in weight. This particular licence is also known as Class 1, allowing the driver to drive any large goods style vehicle needed, including a double trailer.
While the status of these licences doesn’t tend to vary, the details often do, so it is important to stay in the loop. More importantly, you must possess a Driver CPC to qualify for any of these licences, and to do that you must complete at least 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years. To find out more about the details of each licence type, or to find employment opportunities as a HGV driver, get in touch today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]