A cat C licence allows an individual to drive medium-sized lorries, also known as rigid vehicles, with a maximum weight of around 32 tonnes.
This type of commercial driver’s licence is a requirement for operating vehicles that are commonly used for transporting goods and materials over medium distances.
A Cat C licence is a type of commercial driver’s licence that allows an individual to drive medium-sized lorries.
This category of vehicle is commonly known as a “rigid lorry.” It is in contrast to a “articulated” lorry which is a larger and more complex type of vehicle. The maximum weight of a lorry that can be driven with a Category C licence is typically around 32 tonnes.
To obtain a Category C licence, an individual must first pass a series of theory and practical tests. The theory test covers subjects such as road safety, vehicle maintenance, and regulations related to commercial driving.
The practical test involves demonstrating driving skills, as well as a vehicle safety check.
Additionally, a medical examination may be necessary to ensure that the individual is physically fit to operate a lorry.
Learn more about Cat C meaning & requirements.
Once you obtain a Cat C licence, the holder has authorisation to drive any vehicle within the weight restrictions specified by the licence.
However, it’s important to note that additional training may be necessary for certain types of loads or vehicles. This includes those that require the use of a trailer.
Holding a Cat C licence can be advantageous for individuals who are looking for a career in the commercial driving industry. This licence allows individuals to operate a wider range of vehicles and to transport larger loads. It’s a valuable asset for those who are looking for more job opportunities and greater earning potential.
A Cat C licence can also be beneficial for individuals who operate their own businesses. It allows them to transport larger quantities of goods, which can help to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
Cat C training at a glance
- Minimum age: 18, with a full car (Category B) licence
- Medical: a D4 medical exam is required before your provisional entitlement is granted
- Vehicles covered: rigid lorries up to around 32 tonnes
- Typical roles: construction, waste and recycling, retail distribution, general haulage
To start training for a Cat C licence, you need a full UK car (Category B) licence and to be at least 18 years old. You’ll also need to pass a D4 medical exam, which checks things like your eyesight, hearing and general fitness to drive a large vehicle. Once you’ve got your provisional Cat C entitlement added to your licence, you can begin theory and practical training.
Training covers both the theory side (multiple choice questions and a hazard perception test) and practical driving tuition in a real Cat C vehicle, building up to your practical test. Alongside the driving qualification, most learners also need a Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) to drive commercially, which we can help you plan for. How long training takes depends on your starting point and how intensively you train, so get in touch and we’ll talk you through a realistic timeline for your situation.
Costs vary depending on your location, how much practical tuition you need, and whether you’re self-funding or looking at finance or employer sponsorship. For a full breakdown of what’s typically included in the price, see our Cat C licence cost guide, or contact us for a tailored quote based on your circumstances.
Cat C covers rigid lorries up to around 32 tonnes. If you want to drive articulated lorries and the largest vehicle combinations, you’ll need a C+E (Class 1) licence instead. If you’re looking to start on a smaller vehicle first, a C1 licence covers rigid vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes. We can help you work out which route makes the most sense for the work you want to do.
A Cat C licence opens up work across construction, waste, retail distribution and general haulage, driving vehicles like skip lorries, refuse trucks and box vans. See our HGV driver salary guide for current UK pay ranges by licence type, and our recruitment advice if you’re ready to start looking for work once you qualify.
Yes. You’ll need to pass a D4 medical exam with a GP or approved examiner before your provisional Cat C entitlement is granted.
Yes, since a 2021 rule change you no longer have to hold a Cat C licence before training for C+E. Some drivers still prefer to build up through Cat C first. See our Class 1 driver training guide for more on this.
Yes, you’ll need your provisional Cat C entitlement added by the DVLA before you can start practical training. See our guide on getting a provisional HGV licence for the full process and costs.
It depends on your starting point and how intensively you train. Most learners complete theory, medical and practical training within a few weeks, but we will talk you through a realistic timeline for your situation.
We provide part payment options or up to 12 months payment plan, with the option to pay sooner if you wish.
16/10/2026
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One of the benefits of HGV Learning’s training courses is the flexibility they offer. Individuals can choose to attend full-time or part-time courses, and they can also opt for fast-track options if they are in a hurry to get their licence. HGV Learning also offers training at multiple locations, making it easy for individuals to find a course that is convenient for them.
A cat C licence allows an individual to drive medium-sized lorries, also known as rigid vehicles, with a maximum weight of around 32 tonnes.
This type of commercial driver’s licence is a requirement for operating vehicles that are commonly used for transporting goods and materials over medium distances.
A C+E licence, also known as a Class 1 HGV licence, allows drivers to operate the largest and most complex commercial vehicles. This includes articulated lorries and other combinations where the trailer exceeds 750kg. It is the next step up from a Cat C licence and is essential for long-distance and international haulage roles.
A C1 licence allows drivers to operate vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg, such as ambulances, delivery trucks and removal vans. Training with HGV Learning covers both the theory and practical tests, ensuring you are ready to drive these vehicles safely and professionally.
Drivers must hold an ADR licence to transport hazardous goods such as fuel, chemicals, gases and flammable liquids. Carrying these loads without the correct licence is illegal. As a result, ADR training with HGV Learning is essential for anyone entering this area of work.
Our courses prepare drivers to pass the official exams and to manage dangerous substances safely in real-world situations. In addition, training gives learners the confidence to deal with emergencies and meet all regulatory standards.
Hiab training is essential for drivers who operate lorry-mounted cranes used to load and unload heavy goods. These cranes are common in construction, utilities and logistics, where safe handling of equipment and materials is a daily requirement. Our courses prepare drivers to use Hiab vehicles safely and to meet industry accreditation standards.
A telescopic handler, often called a telehandler, is one of the most widely used machines in construction, agriculture and logistics. It combines the features of a forklift and a crane, making it versatile for lifting, moving and placing loads. Our telescopic handler training prepares learners to operate this equipment safely and to gain recognised certification for employment in these industries.
