Information on How to Get CAT C Licence

Category C Licence Surrey – Complete Guide to HGV Class 2 Training

If you want to start a career as a professional lorry driver, gaining a Category C licence in Surrey is the first major step. Also known as the HGV Class 2 licence, this qualification allows you to drive rigid heavy goods vehicles commercially across the UK.

At GS Driver Training in Surrey, we help new drivers understand the process clearly and pass with confidence.

What Is a Category C (Class 2) Licence?

A Category C licence allows you to drive:

• Rigid lorries over 3.5 tonnes
• Vehicles up to 32 tonnes
• Standard heavy goods vehicles without a detachable trailer

These vehicles are often used for:

• Local deliveries
• Supermarket distribution
• Construction materials
• Waste and recycling services

Class 2 drivers usually complete regional or local routes rather than long-distance haulage.

Category C vs C+E Licence – What\'s the Difference?

Understanding the difference helps you choose the right training route.

Category C (Class 2)

• Rigid vehicles only
• No detachable trailer over 750kg
• Ideal entry point into HGV driving

Category C+E (Class 1)

• Articulated lorries
• Drawbar vehicles
• Vehicles with trailers over 750kg

A Category C+E licence offers higher earning potential but requires passing the Category C test first (unless taking a direct access route).

Category C vs C1 Licence

Many learners confuse C1 and C.

If the vehicle exceeds 7.5 tonnes, you need a full Category C licence.

Can You Drive a Bus with a Category C Licence?

No.

To drive buses or coaches, you need:

• Category D (bus/coach)
• Category D+E (bus with trailer)

Category C only covers goods vehicles, not passenger vehicles.

How Long Is a Category C Licence Valid?

Once you pass your HGV test, your vocational entitlement must be renewed:

• Every 5 years until age 45
• Annually after age 65

Medical checks are required at renewal stages.

Steps to Get Your Category C Licence in Surrey

Here is the correct process for becoming a Class 2 HGV driver.

1️⃣ Hold a Full UK Car Licence

You must already hold a Category B licence.

2️⃣ Complete a Medical Examination

You must pass an LGV medical using a D4 form. This confirms you are fit to drive heavy vehicles. This typically costs between £50–£120.

3️⃣ Apply for Provisional Category C

Apply through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) using the D2 and D4 forms.

There is no fee for adding provisional vocational categories.

4️⃣ Pass the LGV Theory Tests

You must complete:

• Module 1a – Multiple Choice (£26)
• Module 1b – Hazard Perception (£11)

These tests are booked through the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). You can find more information on our HGV theory test guide.

5️⃣ Pass the Driver CPC Modules (If Driving Professionally)

To drive commercially, you must also complete:

• Module 2 – CPC Case Studies (£23)
• Module 4 – CPC Practical Demonstration (£55 weekday / £63 evening/weekend)

This qualifies you for your Driver Qualification Card (DQC).

6️⃣ Complete Practical HGV Training

Your practical course typically lasts 3–5 days, depending on experience.

Training includes:

• Reversing exercise
• Vehicle safety questions
• On-road driving assessment

The final test lasts around 60 minutes and costs £115 on weekdays or £141 on evenings/weekends.

Once you pass, you can drive rigid vehicles up to 32 tonnes.

What Can You Drive on a Class 2 Licence?

With a Category C licence, you can drive:

• Box lorries
• Tipper trucks
• Refuse vehicles
• Fire engines
• Delivery vehicles over 7.5 tonnes

You cannot tow large trailers unless you upgrade to C+E.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Category C Licence?

Typical costs in Surrey in 2026 include:

• Medical examination: £50–£120
• Theory test fees: HGV theory test (Part 1a) £26, Hazard perception (Part 1b) £11, Case studies (Part 2) £23
• Practical test fee: HGV practical test (Part 3b) £115 weekday / £141 evening/weekend
• CPC modules (if required): CPC Part 4 practical demonstration £55 weekday / £63 evening/weekend
• Training course: GS Driver Training offers HGV Class 2 training from £847 inc. VAT. Finance options are available from £30/month.

Most learners spend between £1,200–£2,000 depending on experience and CPC requirements, including training. For more details on financing your training, visit our finance options page.

How Long Does It Take?

Most drivers complete the full process within:

• 2–6 weeks (depending on test availability)

Training itself is usually under one week.

Benefits of Getting Your Class 2 Licence

Strong Earning Potential

HGV drivers remain in high demand across the UK. In 2026, newly qualified Class 2 drivers can expect to earn £28,000–£35,000 annually.

Job Stability

Logistics and supply chains rely heavily on Class 2 drivers.

Career Progression

You can later upgrade to:

• Category C+E (Class 1), where experienced drivers can earn £40,000–£55,000
• Specialist haulage
• Tanker or ADR roles

HGV vs LGV – Is There a Difference?

In the UK, HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) and LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) are often used interchangeably.

Technically:

• LGV is the official licence term
• HGV is the industry term

Both refer to vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.

Why Choose GS Driver Training in Surrey?

GS Driver Training supports learners across Surrey and beyond, including:

• Guildford
• Woking
• Redhill
• Farnham
• Camberley

We provide:

• Structured HGV Class 2 training
• DVSA-aligned instruction
• Practical test preparation
• Clear pricing
• Flexible course dates

Our instructors focus on safety, confidence and first-time pass preparation. Read our reviews to see what our students say!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is HGV Class 2 training?

Most courses run between 3 and 5 days.

Do I need previous lorry experience?

No previous HGV experience is required.

Can I fast-track my Category C licence?

Yes, subject to medical, theory and test availability.

Do I need a digital tachograph card?

Yes, if you plan to drive commercially.

What is the HGV driver shortage in 2026?

The UK is currently experiencing an HGV driver shortage of approximately 18,000–25,000, down from a peak of 70,000+ in 2021.

Start Your Category C Training in Surrey

If you are ready to begin your HGV career, GS Driver Training in Surrey can guide you through every stage — from medical to practical test.

Contact us today to book your Category C (Class 2) training course or get in touch for more information.