GS Driver Training branded DAF XF truck driving on UK motorway at sunset
★ Best HGV Training Company — 7 Consecutive Awards
Professional
HGV Driver
Training in Surrey

DVSA-recognised Class 1 & Class 2 HGV, LGV, CPC, PCV, C1 minibus and ambulance driver training from our award-winning school in Surrey and Hampshire. Male and female instructors available.

GS Driver Training Mercedes Sprinter used for C1 licence training in Surrey
Essential for Ambulance, Horsebox & Specialist Drivers

C1 Licence Training
in Surrey

Get your 7.5 tonne licence for ambulances, horseboxes, and specialist vehicles. From £875 inc. VAT with DVSA test. Automatic Mercedes Sprinter.

Who Needs a C1 Licence?

Ambulance Drivers

C1 is essential for driving ambulances. NHS trusts and private ambulance services require this licence. Rewarding career helping people in emergencies.

Horsebox & Livestock

Drive horseboxes and livestock transporters over 3.5t. Essential for equestrian professionals and agricultural workers across Surrey and beyond.

Specialist Vehicles

Mobile libraries, large motorhomes, recovery vehicles, and specialist commercial vehicles all require a C1 licence if over 3.5 tonnes.

Career Stepping Stone

C1 is often the first step towards larger vehicle licences. Many drivers progress to C1+E, Class 2, and eventually Class 1.

What Is a C1 Licence?

A C1 licence allows you to drive vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg (3.5–7.5 tonnes). If you passed your car test before 1 January 1997, you may already have C1 entitlement — check the back of your licence. For everyone else, a C1 driving test is required.

At GS Driver Training, we train on a Mercedes Sprinter with automatic gearbox, making the course accessible and comfortable. Our experienced instructors — both male and female — will prepare you thoroughly for the DVSA practical test, which is included in every course.

The C1 licence is increasingly popular as more people pursue careers in emergency services, equestrian transport, and specialist vehicle operation. With salaries ranging from £24,000 to £32,000+ for C1 roles, it's a worthwhile investment in your career.

C1 Training Prices in Surrey

All prices include VAT and your DVSA driving test. Add D4 medical or CPC as needed.

8 hours
£875
inc. VAT · DVSA test included
With medical: £1,040
With CPC: £1,390
MOST POPULAR
10.5 hours
£1,075
inc. VAT · DVSA test included
With medical: £1,240
With CPC: £1,590
14 hours
£1,375
inc. VAT · DVSA test included
With medical: £1,540
With CPC: £1,890

Finance available — spread the cost over monthly payments. Learn about finance options →

Getting to Our Surrey Training Centre

GS Driver Training, Guildford, Surrey

Easy access from the A3 and M25. Free parking for all trainees. Central location serving Surrey, Hampshire, and surrounding counties.

Woking: 15 mins drive
Farnham: 20 mins drive
Camberley: 25 mins drive
Epsom: 25 mins drive
Leatherhead: 20 mins drive
Staines: 30 mins drive
Aldershot: 15 mins drive
Basingstoke: 35 mins drive

C1 Licence Training FAQs

What vehicles can I drive with a C1 licence?
A C1 licence allows you to drive vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg (3.5t–7.5t). This includes ambulances, large horseboxes, some motorhomes, mobile libraries, and specialist commercial vehicles like the Mercedes Sprinter we train on.
Do I already have C1 on my licence?
If you passed your car driving test before 1 January 1997, you likely already have C1 entitlement on your licence. Check the categories on the back of your photocard licence — look for 'C1' with a valid expiry date. If you passed after this date, you'll need to take the C1 test.
How much does C1 training cost in Surrey?
Our C1 training starts from £875 inc. VAT for an 8-hour course with DVSA test included. The most popular 10.5-hour course is £1,075. Finance is available to spread the cost over monthly payments.
How long does C1 training take?
Our C1 courses range from 8 to 14 hours, typically completed in 1–2 days. The 10.5-hour course is most popular, giving you a full day of training plus a half-day test preparation before your DVSA practical test.
What vehicle do you train on for C1?
We train on a Mercedes Sprinter with automatic gearbox — a comfortable, modern vehicle that's representative of the 7.5t vehicles you'll drive professionally. Automatic transmission means you can focus on road skills rather than gear changes.
Can I drive an ambulance with just a C1 licence?
Yes, a C1 licence is the vehicle licence requirement for driving ambulances. However, ambulance services also require additional training in emergency driving (blue light training) which is provided by the employer after you're hired.

Ready to Get Your C1 Licence?

Whether you're training for ambulance driving, horsebox transport, or specialist vehicles — we'll get you qualified. Book today or call for free advice.