LGV C1 is the same as HGV Class 1, isn't it?

In the 1960's when the lorry driving test were first introduced there was HGV Class 3, HGV Class 2 and HGV Class 1, which was the top licence for driving articulated vehicles.  HGV means Heavy Goods Vehicle.

But all driving licence names were changed in the 1980's to get the UK commonised with the European driving licence names which are mainly letters, not just numbers.

Your car licence is now known as Category B.  And you can drive up to 3.5 tonnes, like a large Ford Transit or a Mercedes Sprinter, with B entitlement.

The next higher category, for people who need to drive small trucks that are over 3.5 tonnes and up to 7.5 tonnes is LGV C1.  So, C1 is a restricted size of truck.


The old HGV Class 1 is now known as LGV CE.  LGV means Large Goods Vehicle. And your full CE entitlement will cover you to drive any truck and trailer, for example an Articulated Vehicle with Tri-Axle Training, to carry up to 44 tonnes.

Take a look at the list of categories and small diagrams on the back of your driving licence to help you see the difference licence groups.

And if you need help to obtain your LGV C1 or LGV CE, at any of our centers at Croydon, Dartford, Enfield, Luton, Watford, Slough or Park Royal (near Wembley) then give us a call in office hours - 020 8453 3440.