How does a class 2 HGV licence compare to a class 1 HGV?

Are you thinking of becoming a HGV driver but not sure which licence to choose?

What is a class 2 licence?

Class 2 HGV licence otherwise known as a category C vehicle is a rigid vehicle over 7.5ton, there is no upper weight limit on a class 2 licence this depends on the vehicle specification most class 2 vehicles are usually 18 or 26-ton vehicles. Examples of these vehicles are refuse trucks or tipper wagons

What is a class 1 licence?

A class 1 HGV licence otherwise known as CE, usually has a maximum gross weight of up to 44ton, this vehicle is a combination of a tractor unit & trailer known as an "artic wogan" The CE licence also covers a drawbar vehicle.

What is a drawbar vehicle?

A drawbar vehicle is usually an 18 or 26-ton rigid vehicle pulling a trailer the difference is the pivot point is in the middle of the vehicle instead of towards the front like an artic combination. These are slightly different compared to an artic vehicle with regards to driving reversing and uncoupling.

Should I choose a class 1 or class 2 licence?

This is entirely up to your preference, initially, the class 2 licence is cheaper to gain as there is less training involved but the salary of a class 2 driver is often a little bit lower than a class 1, You can now skip the class 2 licence and go straight for class 1, we would recommend doing our car to class 1 course initially but then after you pass going to do some class 2 work first to gain some experience then when you feel comfortable doing class 2 work then look to move up to class 1 work.

What is the difference between HGV and LGV?

There is no difference between a HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) and a LGV (Large Goods Vehicle) this is just different terminology. There is no difference between a HGV licence and a LGV Licence.

What types of training do you offer?

Class 1 - Cat CE

Class 2 - Cat C

7.5ton - Cat C1

CPC Module 4

Periodic Driver CPC

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