Since you are reading this article, you are probably searching for the next step you should take in your HGV driver career. Congratulations! You most likely have your Driver CPC already – which is the most basic license that is required to be a professional driver. However, there are several paths you can take from there, and each of them will depend on the type of vehicle you would like to drive. In this article, we will be showing you some of the most popular steps that you can take, and how they may affect your future HGV driving career. A HGV Driver Training Centre will be able to help you regardless of which step you take next.
Cat C1
This licence category is for the smallest kind of haulage vehicle that is out on the roads. It is the type of vehicle that a majority of professional van drivers have. Think about a man in a minibus, van, or another type of large road vehicle. This licence category allows you to drive a vehicle that ranges from 3,500 to 7,500 kg in weight, and a weight of up to 750kg with or without a trailer. Like with any licence, you will have to do a fairly amount of practice driving with a vehicle that is this size. You will also need to pass a practical driving test and two-part theory exam.
Cat C1+E
This is the highest level of licence that you can get, and it basically means you can drive any type of heavy goods vehicle out on the road. Since you have the broadest range of vehicles to choose from, you can select from all of the HGV driver jobs that are available, since you will have the maximum qualification. It will also allow you to earn a higher salary, and you will also often get better hours and perks. With the Cat C + E licence you can drive whatever category of vehicle you want, with a trailer of more than 750kg. In order to prepare for the licence, you first need to obtain the lower licences and pass another practical test and 2 theory tests.
Cat C
For this licence, you can either upgrade from a Cat C1+Eor Cat C1, or directly upgrade from a standard Cat B driver’s licence. This license allows you to drive a vehicle that weighs more than 3,500kg and a trailer up to 750kg. You will need to pass a practical test and theory exam.
Cat C + E
This is an upgraded licence to the Cat 1, and you can choose to get the Cat 1 + E licence also. It covers every type of vehicle that Cat 1 covers, but also adds extra size and weight onto the type of vehicle you are able to drive. The Cat C1 + E allows you to drive any vehicle that weighs over 3,500kg, and also with a much bigger trailer. You must pass a practical exam and two-part theory test.
Briefly put, there is a wide range of licences fo you to choose from. Therefore, where you should go next will depend on the type of HGV driver you would like to be. Trainers at most HGV training centres will work with you closely to ensure that you understand what all of the different qualifications mean, and help you select the best direction for you. They also can provide you with comprehensive training, support, and practise tests, so you will have the best chance possible to succeed in your new career.