The duration of HGV training courses varies depending on the type of licence you’re aiming to achieve, with factors such as individual progress, prior driving experience, and familiarity with larger vehicles potentially influencing the exact timeframe.
Category C Training
For those seeking a Category C licence, which allows you to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes with a trailer up to 750 kg, the course typically lasts 2 to 3 days. This training covers essential skills such as manoeuvring, reversing, and handling heavy goods vehicles in varied traffic conditions. Trainees also learn about vehicle safety checks, load security, and road safety, all critical for passing both the practical driving test and theory components.
Category C+E Training
For drivers pursuing a Category C+E licence, which qualifies you to drive articulated lorries (large vehicles with trailers weighing more than 750 kg), the training is often more extensive, usually lasting up to 5 days. This course builds on the foundational skills from Category C, focusing on more complex manoeuvres with a trailer, advanced coupling and uncoupling techniques, as well as defensive driving and safe load management. Category C+E training is generally more demanding, as it prepares drivers to handle the largest vehicles on the road safely.
Additional Factors
In some cases, training duration may vary depending on the trainee’s background. Those with prior experience in similar vehicles may complete training slightly quicker, while new drivers may benefit from additional practice hours to build confidence and skill.