How Much Does an HGV Licence Cost in 2026? The Complete Breakdown
HGV licence costs in 2026: official DVSA test fees, free provisional application, variable medical and training costs, and how to compare an itemised GS course quote.
Reviewed 5 October 2026. There is no single UK price for an HGV licence. The correct budget depends on the category, your existing entitlements, whether you need initial Driver CPC, the medical provider, the training and vehicle package, and any retest. Do not add a standalone DVSA test fee to a course quote if that same test is already included.
Start with the route you actually need
Category C (often called Class 2) is the rigid-lorry route. Category C+E (often called Class 1) is the heavy-trailer route. You can apply for Category C provisional entitlement and receive provisional C+E too; you do not have to pass a Category C practical test first to pursue C+E. Compare Category C course prices, Category C+E course prices and the direct C+E route against your current licence and training needs. GOV.UK explains the provisional entitlements.
What are the official test fees?
The following are DVSA direct-booking fees published on the official HGV and bus driver fees page, checked on 5 October 2026. These are not GS package prices. Evening, weekend and bank-holiday fees differ where shown; an unofficial booking service may charge more.
| Item | DVSA fee | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Provisional lorry entitlement application | Free | First-time higher-category application; the medical provider may charge separately |
| Part 1 multiple-choice theory | £26 | Booked separately from hazard perception |
| Part 1 hazard perception | £11 | Separate test and fee |
| Part 2 case studies | £23 | Normally relevant to initial Driver CPC for professional driving |
| Part 3a off-road exercise | £40 | An approved non-DVSA provider may charge up to £40 |
| Part 3b on-road driving | £115 weekday / £141 evenings, weekends and bank holidays | The category and test vehicle must match |
| Part 4 practical demonstration | £55 weekday / £63 evenings, weekends and bank holidays | Normally relevant to initial Driver CPC for professional driving |
What else should you budget for?
A doctor or medical provider may charge for the D4 assessment; there is no single official medical price. Practical training, instructor time, vehicle hire, test booking and any theory preparation vary by provider and package. If you already have a relevant category or Driver CPC, do not assume you must buy a first-time course or repeat every module. Check the current qualification route for your circumstances.
Compare each written course quote line by line: which category and vehicle, how many practical hours, whether Parts 3a and 3b and vehicle use are included, VAT treatment, the medical and theory items, retest costs and any cancellation terms. The live GS Category C, Category C+E and fast-track course tables are the source for GS prices and inclusions; this article does not replace those tables or a personalised written quote.
How should I assess funding and finance?
Do not assume a Skills Bootcamp, employer sponsorship or a finance agreement applies to your booking. Funding programmes vary by place, date and eligibility. Ask a prospective funder or provider for its current written terms; if you are considering GS finance information, confirm the actual lender, eligibility, total repayable and terms before applying. No repayment amount or funding entitlement is promised in this guide.
If you need help comparing the routes without double-counting a test, ask GS for an itemised current quote and check the official DVSA fee page again before booking.
Read the full article on GS Driver Training Blog.
Related Articles
More guides in the HGV Training category:
- Fuel Prices Are Surging: Book Your HGV Training Now Before Costs Rise
- HGV Driver Shortage UK 2026: Why Now Is the Best Time to Train
- How to Become an HGV Driver in the UK: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
- HGV Theory Test 2026: Everything You Need to Know to Pass First Time
- Direct Access to Class 1 (C+E): Can You Skip Class 2?
For more information about HGV training courses, call 01252 447808 or visit our courses page.