Enquire Online Now
Category C1
When gaining your Category C1 licence, you will be able to drive a vehicle up to 7.5 tonne Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) capacity. This is defined as:
- A vehicle which is more than 3.5 tonne and up to 7.5 tonne in weight
- A trailer of up to 750Kg
Upon obtaining your provisional entitlement for Category C1, completing your medical, theory tests and your practical driver training elements, as well as passing all tests necessary, you will legally be allowed to drive a 7.5 tonne vehicle. Choose the hours you require, along with the add-ons needed, and our experienced instructors will help you gain and perfect the skills relevant to passing your 3a (off-road) and 3b (on-road) practical driving tests.
Course Enquiry Form
What we offer:
Don’t need the full package? We offer flexible, bespoke training options to suit your needs. Whether you’ve already had your medical or completed some steps, give us a call and we’ll tailor a course that’s right for you.
Bronze Package
For confident learners who just need the essentials to pass. (Driver Training Only)
From: £1,369.00
- Choose from 10.5, 14 or 17.5 hours of driver training
- Covers both the 3a off-road and 3b on-road driving tests
- CPC included: Choose either the initial CPC Module 2 & 4 or 35hr periodic
- All fuel and insurance included at no extra cost
❗Theory, medical, and CPC not included. Ideal if you’ve already completed them.
Contact UsSilver Package
For new learners starting their journey, everything you need from start to finish.
From: £1,578.00
- Includes everything in the Bronze Driving Package
- D2 and D4 licence and medical forms provided
- Medical review booked locally for your convenience
- Access to online theory revision platform included
- Multiple-choice and hazard perception tests booked
✅ A comprehensive package designed to help you qualify confidently.
Contact UsGold Package
For full CPC compliance and added peace of mind.
From: £1,929.00
- Includes everything in the Silver Driving Package
- Added pass protection built in
- Includes 1x free retest for theory and 3b practical test
- Ideal for learners who want to get it right the first time
🛡️ Designed for learners who want extra support in passing.
Contact UsPremium Package
Our best-value option – full training, protection, and extra qualifications.
From: £2,280.00
- Everything in Gold, plus 2x retests for theory and 3b included
- Pass first time? You get a free bonus course: ADR, HIAB or Forklift
- Pass on your 1st retest? You’ll receive 35hr CPC to bank for the future
- Designed for those aiming to start or progress their driving career
🚀 For learners serious about professional driving and long-term success.
Contact UsPrivate Use Package
For those using the licence for non-commercial purposes. 💡 Ideal for schools, clubs, or family use where CPC is not needed.
From: £1,192.00 ( for a 10.5-hour course).
- D2 application and D4 medical form included
- Local medical appointment arranged for you
- Full access to our online theory revision platform
- DVSA multiple-choice and hazard perception tests booked
- Driver training (10.5, 14 or 17.5 hours) + DVSA 3a & 3b practical tests
- Fuel, insurance, and vehicle use included at no extra cost
❌ CPC training not included – not suitable for professional driving
Contact Us>>Step 1: Licence Application & Medical Setup
Receive D2 Provisional Licence Form
Begin your journey by applying for your C1 provisional licence.
Receive D4 Medical Form
This is for your doctor to complete during your medical exam.
Medical Booked for You
Our team schedules your C4 medical at a local clinic, at a convenient time.
>> Step 2: Theory Test Preparation
Access to Theory Revision Platform
You receive your login once we’ve set up your onboarding. Start revising right away.
Multiple Choice Theory Test Booked
We schedule this locally for you.
Hazard Perception Test Booked
Booked at the same time/location as your theory to keep things efficient.
>> Step 3: Driver Training & Testing
Choose Your Training Package
Select from 10.5, 14, or 17.5 hours of driver training, tailored to your needs.
3a Off-Road Reversing Test
Completed during your training sessions.
3b On-Road Practical Driving Test
Taken with a DVSA examiner, included within your training time.
>> Step 4: Real-World Experience
Train with a Skilled C1 Instructor
Learn from experienced professionals who specialise in C1 instruction.
Drive a Modern C1 vehicle
Gain confidence with real-world driving experience.
Train in Air-Conditioned Classrooms
Learn comfortably in our high-quality training environments.
All Fuel & Insurance Included
No hidden costs – everything you need is already covered.
Course Benefits
DVSA Approved Training Areas
Experienced Instructors
Car & Trailer Provided
Course Durations
10.5 Hours
14 Hours
21 Hours
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ongoing requirements?
After you’ve successfully obtained your C1 licence, you can take additional courses to stay compliant when driving a 7.5-tonne vehicle. For example, completing Driver CPC training is essential if you’re driving professionally. In addition, ongoing training helps you stay up to date with current laws, safety standards, and best practices.
Driver Certificate of Professional Competence Training: You must complete 35 hours of periodic driver CPC training every five years if driving professionally for hire & reward. Whether you complete this as a 5-day course, or choose do complete 1-day sessions throughout the five-year period, you must complete the 35-hour requirement within the five-year window
What are the test requirements for this course?
To learn to drive a Category C1 vehicle, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Already hold a Category B (Car) licence
- Pass a medical examination so that you meet the criteria to safely operate a C1 vehicle
If you are planning to become an ambulance driver, you may need to also complete other training if you are going into the health service. You can read more on the NHS website.
Is there any further training?
Upskilling from your Category C1 licence includes the following paths:
- Gaining your Category C entitlement (to drive a rigid large goods vehicle)
- Driver CPC training (for those looking to drive for hire or reward)
- Gaining your Category D1 PCV entitlement (to drive a minibus)
What is the current earning potential of a D1 driver?
Jobs with the C1 licence entitlement include:
- Ambulance Driver
- Courier Service
- Multi-drop Driver
- Delivery Service
As of September 2024, the average salary for a van driver in the UK is in the range of £26,406 and £32,500 annually.
However, as an ambulance driver, which requires the Category C1 entitlement, you can expect a salary range of £20,000-£28,000 annually.
Who is this course for?
Our Category D1 Minibus (PCV) courses are designed for anyone looking to drive a minibus with up to 16 seats maximum and carrying passengers. This is especially ideal for groups like sports teams, military trips & training, club tours and weekend events, business staff travel, airport taxi drivers for family’s jet setting off on vacation as well as the educational sector for School & College Day trips with students. Our D1+E driver training course is perfect for the addition of driving a minibus with a trailer.
This course is ideal for anyone with a valid car licence that is looking to drive a minibus for personal or commercial use (Our removal of restriction course is ideal for personal use) as well as those looking to drive a minibus (PCV) for work requirements and would be classed as driving for “Hire & Reward”, i.e. being paid to drive the vehicle or provided some form of compensation for driving.
What can I drive with a Category C1 licence?
There are several types of C1 vehicles you can drive with this entitlement.
The most common is the standard van. Although there are additional types of C1 vehicles, such as ambulances, horseboxes and motorhomes.
The Category C1+E entitlement will allow you to drive a 7.5 tonne vehicle with a trailer.
What will I receive once I’ve completed my course?
Once you successfully pass your Category C1 test(s), you will be handed a certificate, courtesy of your DVSA examiner.
You must then send your driving licence to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) so that they can update your category entitlements.
Once you receive your updated licence, you will have the “Category C1” entitlement on the back of your driving licence card.
If you are only completing the Category C1 test, you will only receive this entitlement. If you choose to obtain your van and trailer (C1+E) licence, you will need to gain the 7.5 tonne and trailer provisional entitlement.
What are the vehicle requirements?
To learn to drive a Category C1 vehicle, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Already hold a Category B (Car) licence
- Pass a medical examination so that you meet the criteria to safely operate a C1 vehicle
If you are planning to become an ambulance driver, you may need to also complete other training if you are going into the health service. You can read more on the NHS website.
What is the ‘grandfather right’ in relation to driving?
The term ‘grandfather right’ refers to the special entitlement that was granted to drivers who passed their car test before 1 January 1997. This allowed them to continue driving light lorries, vans, and other vehicles weighing up to 8.25 tonnes without the need for a separate test or obtaining a Category C1 driving license.
How do I apply for a Category C1 driving license?
You can apply for a Category C1 license through your local Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) or the equivalent body in your country. You’ll need to complete an application form, submit your medical examination results, and provide proof of identity. Then, you’ll need to book and pass both the theory and practical tests.
Why Choose 2 Start?
Reputable
High Pass Rates
Established in 2008
Industry Leading Training Provider
Independently Owned
6 Dedicated Training Centres
VIEW COURSESTrusted
4.9 Star Rating on Google Reviews
DVSA Approved 3a Examiners
DVSA Approved Test Centres
APAR Approved Training Provider
RLI Certified LGV Instructors
BOOK NOWAccredited
Accredited Instructors & Courses
Regular Accrediting Body Audits
Exceptional Audit Pass Marks
Listed With 9 Accrediting Bodies
Verifiable Accreditations
THE TEAM4 Past student reviews for Category C1
Only logged in students who have purchased this course previously may leave a review.
Daniel Simpson –
Explained where I was going wrong and needed to improve in a professional and reassuring manner. Encouraged me and empowered to succeed, despite the nerves. I felt confident with Rob next to me and his advice and feedback both during lessons and after enabled me to go away, think about things and come back and address them next lesson. Very grateful.
Andrea Snape –
Clear comments on positives. Clear instruction on how to improve errors.
Adam Nippard –
Dell was very knowledgeable with lots of great tips. Also, great company.
Ella Camp –
Good instructions, allowed me to try things again, appreciated it. Overall good!