HGV Licence Upgrade Cost UK 2026: Class 2 to Class 1 and Beyond

Full cost breakdown for HGV licence upgrades UK 2026. Category C to C+E, car to Class 2, fast track routes — training fees, DVSA test costs, D4 medical.

Moving from Category C (often called Class 2) to Category C+E (often called Class 1) changes the vehicle and trailer combination you can drive. The cost is not one fixed upgrade package: it depends on your current entitlement, the practical training and vehicle package, what the written quote includes, and whether any retest or Driver CPC requirement applies to your circumstances.

What should a C to C+E upgrade quote cover?

Start by confirming that the quote is for the Category C+E route and your existing licence position. Ask how much practical instruction is included, which vehicle is used, whether Parts 3a and 3b bookings and vehicle use for the tests are included, how VAT is treated, and what happens if extra tuition or a retest is needed. Do not assume medical, theory, Driver CPC or test items are included merely because they apply to a different first-time route.

The live Category C+E course price table is the source for current GS upgrade prices and inclusions. If you are choosing a route from a car licence rather than upgrading an existing Category C entitlement, compare the Category C course prices and the direct C+E route before treating separate courses as the only option.

Keep official test fees separate from a course quote

The GOV.UK HGV and bus driver fee table is the current source for direct-booking fees. It lists Part 3a at £40, Part 3b at £115 on a weekday or £141 on an evening, weekend or bank holiday, and Part 4 at £55 on a weekday or £63 at those other times. These are not GS package prices, and a fee should not be added again where a written course quote already includes the relevant test and vehicle use.

For the wider stages that may apply before an upgrade—including a provisional application, separate theory and hazard-perception fees, medical costs and initial Driver CPC—read the total HGV licence cost and official test-fee breakdown. It explains which costs are official fees and which depend on the route, provider and individual circumstances.

Compare the right route before paying

Category C+E is not a universal next step for every driver. Match the course to the vehicle and work you intend to do, check the current DVLA higher-category entitlement guidance, and compare like-for-like written quotes. For an itemised current quote or to confirm the applicable route, contact GS Driver Training.

Read the full article on GS Driver Training Blog.

Related Articles

More guides in the HGV Training category:

For more information about HGV training courses, call 01252 447808 or visit our courses page.