What is a Category C Driving Licence?

Getting your driving licence is one of the life achievements that most people want to accomplish, as it can open doors and opportunities that weren't previously possible and help you get from point A to B easily. The standard driving licence is Category B, which permits you to drive vehicles with up to eight passenger seats. Category C takes this to the next level, as you can drive a non-articulated vehicle over 3,500kg and not exceeding 32 tonnes, with a trailer up to 750kg.

This guide will give you a breakdown of what Category C driving licence training allows you to drive and the requirements for obtaining one. Continue reading to find out more.

Vehicles You Can Drive with a Cat C Licence?

Weight

Any rigid vehicle with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) over 3,500kg (3.5 tonnes). There is no upper weight limit, but in practice, these vehicles typically do not exceed 32 tonnes. It gives you the chance to carry a large amount of items from one place to another and is perfect for B2B businesses.

Trailer

You can also tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 750kg. If you need to tow a trailer that weighs more than this, you would need to upgrade to a Category C+E licence which can be achieved by undergoing extra training with Lifft Group.

Common types of vehicles you can drive with a Cat C licence include:

• Large rigid lorries and delivery trucks
• Refuse collection vehicles (bin lorries)
• Fire engines
• Road gritters
• Skip lorries
• Large motorhomes and horseboxes

Requirements for Obtaining a Category C Licence

To be eligible to train for and obtain a Category C licence in the UK, you must:

• Be at least 18 years olds
• Hold a full UK Category B (car) driving licence.
• Pass a medical examination: A doctor must complete a D4 medical form to confirm you are medically fit to drive a large goods vehicle.
• Apply for a provisional HGV licence: You must submit the D4 medical form along with a D2 application form to the DVLA.
• Pass the HGV theory test: This consists of a multiple-choice test, a hazard perception test, and for professional drivers, a case study test.
• Complete practical training: You must take driving lessons with a certified instructor in an HGV.
• Pass the practical driving test: This includes an off-road manoeuvres test (reversing) and an on-road driving test.
• Obtain a Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence): If you plan to drive an HGV professionally, you must complete the full Driver CPC qualification, which involves passing a series of modules covering safety, vehicle knowledge and practical skills.

Conclusion

The training process is designed to ensure drivers are fully equipped to handle the unique demands of these powerful vehicles safely. You can gain not only a new qualification but also the expertise to navigate the world's roads in a way few others can. Whether your goal is to join the ranks of professional hauliers or simply to operate a large motorhome for personal use, the Category C licence is a powerful asset that can transform your career and your life.