HGV Class 2 licence (also known as Category C or Class C licence) is a type of driving licence required to drive a commercial vehicle that weighs between 3,500kg and 32,000kg. This includes rigid-body vehicles such as lorries, dump trucks, and delivery trucks.
To obtain an HGV Class 2 licence, you need to pass a series of tests that assess your ability to safely drive a large commercial vehicle on public roads. The tests typically include a theory test, a practical driving test, and a vehicle safety demonstration test.
You also need to meet certain age and health requirements. What is HGV Class 2 Licence?" An HGV Class 2 licence is a type of commercial driving licence that allows the holder to operate a medium-sized goods vehicle with a maximum weight of 3,500kg.
Once you have obtained an HGV Class 2 licence, you can legally drive a Category C vehicle on UK roads. This licence is often required for jobs in the transport and logistics industry, such as delivery drivers, waste management drivers, and construction site operatives.
How to get an HGV Class 2 Licence?
To get an HGV Class 2 Licence in the UK, you need to follow these steps:
1). Get a provisional Category C Licence: To get started, you need to apply for a provisional Category C licence. To do this, you must be at least 18 years old and have a full car driving licence.
2). Pass the theory tests: Next, you will need to pass two theory tests, which are a multiple-choice test and a hazard perception test. These tests assess your knowledge of the Highway Code and your ability to identify and respond to potential hazards on the road.
3). Take HGV Class 2 training: Once you have passed the theory tests, you will need to take HGV Class 2 training with a registered training provider. The training typically lasts for several days and includes both practical and theoretical elements.
4). Pass the practical driving test: Once you have completed your training, you will need to pass a practical driving test. This test includes a vehicle safety demonstration, a reversing exercise, and a road driving test.
5). Receive your HGV Class 2 Licence: If you pass the practical driving test, you will receive your HGV Class 2 Licence, which will allow you to drive commercial vehicles with a weight of between 3,500kg and 32,000kg.
It is important to note that obtaining an HGV Class 2 Licence can be a costly and time-consuming process, so it is important to carefully consider your options before committing to training.
What is the difference between an HGV Class 1 and Class 2 licence?
The main difference between an HGV Class 1 (also known as Category CE or Class CE) and Class 2 (also known as Category C or Class C) licence is the type of vehicle that you are licensed to drive.
HGV Class 2 Licence: With an HGV Class 2 Licence, you are licensed to drive a category C vehicle which includes rigid vehicles weighing over 3,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg.
HGV Class 1 Licence: With an HGV Class 1 Licence, you are licensed to drive category CE vehicles, which include articulated vehicles such as tractor-trailer combinations or "artics." The combined weight of the vehicle and trailer can be up to 44,000kg.
To obtain an HGV Class 1 Licence, you must already hold an HGV Class 2 Licence and pass an additional practical driving test with a category CE vehicle.
In summary
while both licences allow you to drive commercial vehicles, an HGV Class 2 Licence allows you to drive a smaller category C vehicle, while an HGV Class 1 Licence allows you to drive larger articulated category CE vehicles.
Also Read: What is Driver CPC Training?
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