If you’re considering a career in professional driving or looking to upgrade your current driving licence, a Heavy Rigid Licence can open up many opportunities in the logistics and transport industries. This licence is essential for those wishing to operate large, non-articulated lorries across the UK. But what exactly is a heavy rigid licence? How much does it cost? And what are the requirements to get one? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
What is a Heavy Rigid Truck?
A heavy rigid truck, often referred to as a rigid lorry in the UK, is a large vehicle with a fixed chassis. Unlike articulated lorries (which have a separate cab and trailer), rigid vehicles have their cargo area permanently attached to the driver’s cab.
Examples include:
- Refuse collection vehicles
- Concrete mixers
- Fire engines
- Delivery trucks
Rigid vs Articulated:
Rigid vehicles are generally easier to manoeuvre in urban environments, while articulated vehicles offer more flexibility and larger load capacities.
Heavy Rigid Licence Requirements
To drive a heavy rigid vehicle in the UK, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Medical Fitness: A valid medical examination (D4 form) completed by a doctor is required.
Existing Licence:
- You must hold a full UK Category B (car) licence.
- You must apply for a provisional Category C licence (rigid lorry) using the D2 form.
How Much Does a Heavy Rigid Licence Cost?
Getting a heavy rigid licence in the UK typically costs between £1,500 and £2,000. This includes medical fees (£50–£100), theory tests (around £60), practical driving tests (up to £181), and Driver CPC modules (£55–£63 each). You’ll also need a Driver CPC card, which costs £25. Most of the cost comes from professional training courses, which often include test fees, vehicle hire, and preparation for CPC.
Training Course:
- A typical Category C training course can cost anywhere from £1,200 to £2,000, depending on the number of days and services included (vehicle hire, test booking, etc.).
How to Apply for a Heavy Rigid Licence
Follow these steps to apply and train for your HR licence:
Step 1: Apply for a Provisional Licence
- Order D2 and D4 forms from the DVLA or pick them up from a Post Office.
- Complete the D4 medical form with a registered GP.
- Send both forms to the DVLA to receive your provisional Category C entitlement.
Step 2: Book & Pass Your Theory Tests
- Book the multiple-choice and hazard perception tests.
- Study using official DVSA materials or through an LGV training provider.
Step 3: Driver CPC Case Studies (Module 2)
- Pass Module 2 to be eligible for Module 4 (practical demonstration).
Step 4: Practical Driver Training & Tests
- Enrol with a qualified LGV training provider.
- Complete your driver training in a rigid vehicle.
- Pass both off-road (3a) and on-road (3b) tests.
Step 5: CPC Module 4Q & Get Your Card
- Complete the practical demonstration (Module 4).
- Once you pass, you’ll receive your Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
Conclusion
Acquiring a heavy rigid licence is a significant step toward becoming a qualified professional driver in the UK. With the growing demand for goods transport and logistics, holding a Category C licence can offer excellent career prospects, steady income, and job security. Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your current driving entitlements, understanding the heavy rigid licence cost, requirements, and process is key to getting on the road confidently and legally.
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