C1 & C1+E Class

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HGV

C1 & C1+E Class

A C1 Class vehicle is the entry level for HGV drivers unless they have Grandfather Rights on their license.

They weigh 3.5T – 7.5T and have 2 axles. As well as being used for local deliveries, a C1 Class vehicle can also be an ambulance and a horsebox.

A C1+E Class vehicle is the same as C1 but with a trailer added. The trailer weight must not exceed the weight of the vehicle doing the driving and the combined weight must not exceed 12T.

You cannot learn to drive a C1+E Class vehicle until you have passed your C1 test unless you have Grandfather Rights.

If you don’t intend to drive anything larger than perhaps an ambulance then adding C1 Class to your license is ideal.

General Information on HGV Driver Training at AYM1

Here at AYM1 Training, we can help you from arranging your medical right up to helping with your Digi Card application.

Our HGV courses last 5 days with the last day being your test. Our trainers will guide you through the theory and practical tests(Modules 2 & 4) as well as helping with your driving skills.

Our facilities include a large area where you can practice manoeuvring the vehicle before taking it out on the open road.

Not sure whether driving an HGV is for you? Don’t worry as we can arrange a session where you can get the feel of the vehicle before deciding upon having lessons.

As we train drivers on the days preceding their test, please give us a call or send us an e-mail and we can advise you as to when your training can begin.

PLEASE NOTE:- Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all driver training is currently suspended until further notice.

FAQ

What's the difference between HGV and LGV?

There isn’t one. HGV stands for Heavy Goods Vehicle and LGV stands for Large Goods Vehicle. However some people do refer LGV to be a Light Goods Vehicle such as a Transit type van

What are Grandfather Rights?

Grandfather or Acquired Rights were given to car drivers who passed their test prior to 1997. Drivers who have Grandfather Rights are entitled to drive a C1, C1+E and D1 Class vehicles without the need to take the initial Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) but they do need to take the 35 hour Driver CPC Periodic Training before they can drive a HGV professionally. The photo on the right shows the driver has Grandfather/Acquired Rights

I have Grandfather Rights on my license. What do I need to do?

You need to take 35 hours of Driver CPC Periodic Training. This is normally
5 modules of 7 hours in length.
We run the following modules:
  • Driving Skills
  • Emergency First Aid
  • Loading & Unloading
  • Smart Motorways
  • Tachograph & Drivers Hours

In order to remain driving a HGV professionally, you MUST complete another 35 hours of Driver CPC training within 5 years

I have Grandfather Rights but have never driven a C1 Class vehicle. Can I practice driving a C1 with you?

Yes you can. We can arrange for you to have as much or as little driving practice as you wish. We also recommend that you have some practice driving in a C1 vehicle before you take the Driver CPC Periodic Training

How many driving lessons do I have before taking my test?

At AYM1, our driver training takes place over 5 days. We normally book your test then start your lessons 5 days before it is due to take place. We find that you are more likely to fail by leaving a gap between your lessons and test.

Can I retake my test if I fail?

You can retake your test as many times needed in order to pass. Some of our package deals on HGV driver training offer a free retest or free lessons on another vehicle if you pass first time. Unfortunately you will have to pay for future tests if you fail more than twice.

What happens now that I have passed all my tests?

You will be sent your Driver CPC card(sometimes called Driver Qualification Card/DQC) through the post to the address on your driving licence. You MUST carry your DQC at all times when driving a HGV professionally.

What is a Digital Tachograph Card?

A Digital Tachograph Card or Digi Card is required if you are going to be driving a HGV professionally. As a HGV driver, you are subject to laws regarding the amount of hours you can drive in a day and when you must take a break. A Digi Card records your driving activity and you will be fined and possibly banned if you are caught driving a HGV without a Digi Card. To apply for a Digi Card you will need to download form D777B/DL from the link below

I am a Paramedic and my job involves driving an ambulance. Do I need a Digital Tachograph Card?

No you don’t. Ambulances and other emergency vehicle drivers are exempt from requiring a Digital Tachograph Card. Please click on the link below to see a list of vehicles that are exempt
Digi Card Exempt Vehicles

Once you have passed your C1 Class test or if you have Grandfather Rights, the next step for an HGV driver is C Class. Take a look at the brief description below of a C Class HGV then click on the photo for further information and how to book your lessons

C Class

A 2, 3 or 4 axle vehicle with a rigid fixed body. A C Class vehicle can weigh over 7.5T

Is also referred to as a Class 2 vehicle. Typical C Class vehicles include fire engines, removal, roadside recovery and waste disposal trucks.