If you want to drive on UK roads, you need to have the right license. The most common kind of driving license is a car license – but if you want to drive a lorry or bus, then you’ll need a commercial driving license.
Getting your commercial driving license can be a long and complicated process, with plenty of rules and regulations to abide by. We will explore the steps involved in getting your commercial driving license in the UK so that you can stay safe on the roads.
What is a commercial driving license
A commercial driving license (CDL) is a type of driving license that allows you to drive commercial vehicles such as buses, coaches, and lorries. In order to get a CDL, you must first pass a written test and then a practical driving test.
The written test covers topics such as road signs, traffic laws, and vehicle maintenance. The practical driving test is conducted in a real-world setting and evaluates your ability to safely operate a commercial vehicle.
The different types of commercial driving license
There are different types of commercial driving license in the UK, each with their own restrictions. The most common type is the Class 2 license, which allows you to drive any vehicle weighing up to 7.5 tons. If you want to drive a larger vehicle, you’ll need a Class 1 license. There are also specialist licenses for driving buses, coaches and lorries.
To get your commercial driving license, you’ll first need to pass the relevant theory and practical tests. You can find more information on how to do this on the GOV.UK website.
How to pass your commercial driving license test in UK
In order to obtain your commercial driving license in the UK, you will need to pass a series of tests. The first step is to obtain a provisional driving license, which will allow you to practice driving on public roads. Once you have completed this, you will need to take a Theory Test, which covers topics such as road signs and rules of the road.
After passing the Theory Test, you will be able to take your Practical Test, which consists of a Driving Ability test and an On-Road test. If you pass both of these tests, you will be issued with a full commercial driving license.
Applying for the test or getting your test date is not enough, you need to practice HGV Theory Test before appearing for the actual test. Most of the candidates fail the test simple because they do not practice.
The requirements for getting a commercial driving license in the UK
There are different types of commercial driving license in the UK, each with their own requirements. To get a standard license, which allows you to drive vehicles up to 3.5 tons, you must be aged 17 or over and have a full car license. You will also need to pass a medical examination and theory and practical driving tests.
To get a higher-category license, which allows you to drive heavier vehicles, you must first obtain a standard license and then pass additional tests. For a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) license, you must be aged 18 or over and have held a full car license for at least 2 years. You will also need to pass a medical examination and theory and practical driving tests.
For an Bus or Coach license, you must be aged 21 or over and have held a full car license for at least 3 years. You will also need to pass a medical examination and theory and practical driving tests.
How to apply for a commercial driving license in the UK
To apply for a commercial driving license in the UK, you must
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid UK driving license.
- Pass a medical examination.
- Complete a Driver CPC Initial Qualification (DQC).
- Apply to the DVLA for your commercial driving license.
You can find more information on how to apply for a commercial driving license on the DVLA website.
Conclusion
Getting your commercial driving license in the UK is a process that requires patience and dedication. With the right guidance and preparation, you can achieve this important milestone in a timely manner and become a better driver.
Make sure to research the necessary requirements for obtaining your commercial driver’s license thoroughly, including minimum age limits and exam prerequisites.
Once you have everything required sorted out, start preparing using relevant material such as online courses or private tutors. Good luck!
