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Category C+E
Our Category C+E courses will allow you to operate the following type of vehicle:
- An articulated Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) with a weight of over 7.5 tonne.
- A trailer over 750Kg
The C+E entitlement is the highest licence held by individuals, which makes it a great way to upskill in the logistics and road freight sector. As of November 15th 2021, you are now able to train straight from a car to a Category C+E vehicle. This means that you can skip the class 2 HGV licence.
What’s Included
- The Class 1 licence entitlement opens up a many job opportunities in the logistics and transport sector.
- You automatically gain the Category C licence entitlement When you gain your Category C+E licence.
- Dedicated 3a reversing areas, so you can build your confidence when learning to reverse a Category C+E vehicle.
- Complete your training in our modern automatic C+E vehicles.
- Receive training from our highly experienced instructors, many who are on the Register of Logistics Instructors.
Course Modules
If you are looking to obtain your Category C+E and only hold a Category B car licence, you will be required to complete all of the modules outlined below, if however you are looking to upgrade from a Category C to a Category C+E licence, you will NOT need to complete the D2, D4, Theory revision, Multiple Choice, Hazard Perception or Module 2 Theory test as you should already have obtained these previously for your Category C.
- *D2 provisional licence application.
- *D4 medical form.
- Completed by your local doctor or GP, along with conducting your medical assessment
- Theory revision access.
- If needed, a theory revision account will be issued to you. Once your login credentials have been received, you can revise for the relevant theory test(s) online from the comfort of your own home.
- **Multiple Choice Theory tests.
- This is booked on your behalf at a location convenient to you.
- **Hazard Perception Theory test booked.
- This is booked on your behalf at a location convenient to you.
- **Module 2 Theory test
- This is booked on your behalf at a location convenient to you.
- 3.5 to 35 hours of driver training (depending on the option you choose), which will include both your 3a off-road & 3b on-road practical driving test with a DVSA examiner.
- Thorough training, which is conducted by an experienced Class 1 instructor.
- Completing and passing your Module 4 Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training and test.
- This includes completing a vehicle walkaround check, safe vehicle loading, emergency situation assessment and prevention of trafficking.
- Use of 2 Start’s own Cat C+E articulated lorries to provide essential experience and skills if you haven’t driven a Category C+E vehicle prior to your course.
- Use of our modern air-conditioned classrooms to make your training experience comfortable.
- Covered by our vehicle Insurance at no extra cost.
- All vehicle fuel is included with your training at no extra cost.
- Retests can be added (for a small additional cost) in the event that you do not pass first time.
*Assistance in completing the forms is available upon request.
**These can be booked individually or together.
Course Benefits
Accredited Training Centre
DVSA Approved Training Areas
Experienced Instructors
Use Of Our Category C+E Articulated Lorry
High Pass Rates
4.9/5 Star Rating on Google
Own Fleet Of Vehicles
Test & Train In the Same Location/Area
Multiple DVSA Approved Test Centres
Course Durations
3.5 Hours
7 Hours
14 Hours
17.5 Hours
20 Hours
28 Hours
30 Hours
32 Hours
35 Hours
Vehicle Requirements
To operate a Class 1 HGV, you must be:
- 18 years old
- At least hold a Category B (Car) licence
As of November 2021, you can now go from a car licence, straight to a category C+E licence. However, we understand that this is a big jump, so many still opt to gain their Category C licence first, then upgrade from a C licence to a C+E.
Ongoing Requirements
Once you complete your Category C+E training and pass your Class 1 test, you must move on to Modules 2 and 4 of the initial Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). These are essential for professional drivers.
To stay compliant when driving for hire or reward, you also need to complete 35 hours of CPC training every five years. You can spread this out with one-day sessions or complete it in a five-day block. Just ensure you reach the full 35 hours within the rolling five-year period.
By staying current, you meet legal requirements and keep your qualification active as a professional driver.
Test Requirements
During your Category C+E training, you’ll complete several tests at different stages of your journey. However, this depends on any tests you may have already finished before booking your course with us. These assessments combine both theory and practical elements to ensure you gain well-rounded competence.
First, a qualified medical examiner, either a local doctor or GP, will conduct your medical examination.
Next, the theory section and Modules 2 & 4 of your CPC course include multiple-choice questions, case studies, hazard perception, and the initial CPC tests. You will complete these tests on a PC in a controlled environment, typically at a test centre close to you.
Following this, the 3a (off-road) reversing test takes place at one of our DVSA-approved testing areas, locations you will use for practice throughout your course. A DVSA examiner will assess how well you manoeuvre the Category C+E vehicle. You must demonstrate skills such as reversing in an “S” shape and aligning to a set standard.
Finally, the 3b (on-road) driving test begins when you meet the DVSA examiner in our reception area. After verifying your credentials, the examiner will direct you along a fixed route. You’ll face various challenges that evaluate your ability to drive and manoeuvre a Class 1 lorry safely. These include urban, rural, and dual carriageway scenarios. To pass, you must complete the test with no more than 12 driving faults, no serious faults, and no more than 4 repeated minor faults (which could count as a major).
Further Training
In addition to your periodic Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), which involves ongoing training, you can boost your earning potential by completing further courses.
For instance, ADR training allows you to transport dangerous goods by road—a role that often pays more. Better yet, this training can count toward your periodic CPC hours, giving you both qualification and compliance benefits.
If you are looking for a step up into a management role, becoming a Transport Manager is a great way to enhance your skills in managing fleets and supporting a team of drivers, alongside ensuring deliveries are met.
Earning Potential
Reputable Salary Checkers estimate the following for a truck driver across the South Coast:
While all efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information, we suggest conducting your own research and use these figures for information purposes only.
Who is this course for?
Any one over the age of 18 who already holds a Driving licence can book our Category C+E driver training course. You can now go from a car to artic licence, so anyone looking to fast track their HGV licence can do so.
So, if you are planning to join the logistics sector or looking to upgrade you licence entitlement to increase job prospects, then obtaining your Class 1 licence is the best opportunity for you to upskill.
What can I drive with a Category C+E licence?
Your Category C+E licence lets you drive articulated HGVs weighing over 7,500kg and tow trailers over 750kg.
What will you receive upon successful completion of this course?
After passing your Class 1 HGV test, the examiner will issue your Category C+E pass certificate.
Next, send your driving licence to the DVLA so they can update your entitlements. Once your updated licence returns, you’ll see the “Category C+E” entitlement listed on the back.
This confirms your qualification to drive articulated vehicles professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Category C+E driver training?
Category C+E driver training suits those aiming to drive large vehicles, including articulated lorries and trucks with trailers. It builds on Category C (rigid vehicles) by adding Category E, which covers trailer use. As a result, you’ll be qualified to drive both types. This course is perfect if you’re pursuing a professional driving career in logistics, transport, or delivery. Before enrolling, you must already hold a valid Category C licence, since C+E training extends that entitlement.
How long will the Category C+E driver training take?
The length of Category C+E driver training varies based on your experience and learning speed. Typically, it lasts between 2 to 4 weeks. The course combines both theory and practical training to prepare you for real-world driving.
First, theory sessions cover key topics like road safety, vehicle checks, and legal responsibilities. Then, practical training gives you hands-on experience. You’ll practice reversing with a trailer, handling traffic, and conducting safety inspections.
Finally, to earn your Category C+E licence, you must pass both a theory and a practical driving test.
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
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Exceptional Audit Pass Marks
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THE TEAM5 Past student reviews for Category C+E
Only logged in students who have purchased this course previously may leave a review.
Jarod Tomlin –
Well structured lessons with clear communication.
Jason Sheldrake –
A great course from start to finish, very knowledgeable instructors who are willing to help in any way they can. A very enjoyable and fantastic learning experience.
Kieran Sengelow –
The course was really enjoyable and felt at ease straight away. Graham was very thorough with good and helpful tips but very patient when I made mistakes. Can’t fault my time with 2Start.
Howard Batten –
Explained the reverse exercise really well breaking it down into stages that made it easier to understand.
Ryan Collins –
Very experienced and knowledgeable. Very clear in his instructions and excellent teaching skills.