Do you need help understanding what is the difference between Class 1 and Category C and E? The different driving licence categories can be confusing especially for people who are new to the industry. We look at some of the most important terms in the haulage world and why people refer to the entitlements in different ways.
Before we tackle what the difference is between Class 1 and Category C and E, what does HGV mean?
HGV (or Heavy Goods Vehicle) and LGV (or Large Goods Vehicle) mean the same thing. There is absolutely no difference between them. HGV is an older term and LGV is a newer term. Both refer to trucks and lorries.
Drivers’ licences
What is a Category C licence?
A Category C licence allows you to drive any vehicle over 3,500KG (3.5T) with a trailer up to 750kg. For example, this would mean you could drive a 26T rigid lorry with a trailer up to 750KG. This is also called Class 2.
What is a Category C+E licence?
Category CE or C+E or C&E allows you to drive a lorry over 3,500kg (3.5T) with a trailer over 750kg. It enables you to drive the largest vehicles in the logistics industry. This includes drawbar and articulated vehicles. Category C+E is also called Class 1 and there is no difference between the two terms.
Why are both the names used to describe the same thing?
When the UK joined the EU, the member states agreed to have a common licence system across Europe. However, in the UK our existing licensing system was based on numbers which did not fit directly with the new European system. This meant that the old HGV Class 2 became LGV C, enabling someone to drive any rigid truck. Driving qualifications with a trailer became +E, for example, the old Class 1 became LGV CE.
Is C1 the same as Class 1?
No it is not and so it can lead to a lot of confusion for new drivers. The term C1 is different from C and CE and is for driving vehicles between 3.5T and 7.5T. This is because drivers who passed their car test before January 1997, could drive up to 7.5T on a standard car licence. When the new system changed, this category was created to fill the gap. Learn more about the different categories.
Is Class 1 the same as HGV?
No, Class 1 or Category C or C+E refers to the type of licence whereas HGV refers to the type of vehicle – ie a Heavy Goods Vehicle.
Can you go straight to HGV Class 1?
Yes, in 2021 the rules changed allowing people to go from a car licence straight to a Class 1 or Category C+E licence. Our car to class 1 combi course allows you to do just that.
Need help choosing the right training for you?
We know how confusing it can be and so our HGV courses are labelled with both the Class and Category to make it clear what you will be able to drive. Our knowledgeable team is on hand to answer your questions so you know you are taking the right course. Our experienced HGV driving instructors are able to tailor the course to you whether you want a refresher for Class 2 or want to take our Car to Class 1 Combi course. Book your course.