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C1 Driving Test: Theory & Practical Preparation Guide

C1 Driving Test

If you feel restricted by the category B licence, you may have looked into the C1 driving licence. This HGV licence allows you to drive medium-sized lorries, motorhomes and other vehicles under 7.5 tonnes (7,500 kg). But to acquire this entitlement, you must pass the C1 driving test. That’s what this article is all about. We’re set to cover everything you need to know about the C1 test, helping you prepare for the theory and practical sections.

Requirements For The C1 Driving Test

An Empty Medium Sized Truck Awaiting Loading

Before getting to the main part, let’s start with the driving test requirements. To apply for the C1 test, the eligibility criteria are that you must be at least 18 years old and have a standard Category B driving licence to show that you are capable of driving smaller vehicles under 3.5 tonnes (3,500 kg).

You’ll also need to pass the LGV medical test. This test serves to evaluate your health, eyesight and other conditions that could impact your driving ability. The LGV medical examination can be conducted by your local GP or private doctor.

If you’re interested in driving vehicles beyond 7.5 tonnes, you should check out our blog post on the Category C licence.

C1 Theory Test

After the licence application process comes the C1 test, which you must pass to get a C1 licence. The C1 driving test is separated into two sections. The first part comprises theory tests designed to assess your knowledge of the Highway Code and other driving rules. The theory tests are made up of multiple-choice questions, case studies and a hazard perception test.

  • Multiple-choice theory test: The multiple-choice theory test costs £26 and you’ll be faced with 100 questions that cover topics like traffic signs, driving theory, vehicle handling and control, driver and road users’ safety and vehicle loading. You must answer 85 questions correctly to pass this section.
  • Hazard perception: The hazard perception test costs £11 and involves you watching 19 one-minute clips to spot developing hazards. You must identify the hazards as early as possible to score points. Passing this section requires a minimum score of 67 out of 100 points.
  • Case study test: After the hazard perception test comes the case study theory test. You’ll need to shell out £23 for this test, which comprises 50 questions. The pass mark for this section is 80%.

You must have been a UK resident for at least 185 days during the previous 12 months to take these theory tests.

C1 Practical Test

After the theory test, you’ll take on the practical test, which will set you back £115. This test will assess your ability to drive C1 vehicles safely and includes various components like vehicle safety, practical driving, reversing exercises and unloading.

The safety test commonly known as ‘Show me, Tell me’ involves you performing vehicle safety checks like checking the oil level, testing the lights and examining the tyres. You’ll also explain how to check vehicle brakes. The following sections will have you drive in various road and traffic conditions and perform manoeuvres to show your control and precision.

You can pass the first part of the C1 practical despite making mistakes, as you’re allowed up to 15 minor faults but no major faults. Minor faults are regarded as less serious and involve small, common mistakes, while major faults are those that indicate a significant risk to safety.

See our article, where we provide deep insight into the dimensions of 7.5-tonne lorries.

Tips For Preparing For The C1 Driving Test

Two Trucks In Motion

The C1 driving test doesn’t have to be very complex. You can pass with proper C1 test preparation.

  • Master the Highway Code. The Highway Code forms the foundation of safe driving. Get a copy and study the rules and regulations relevant to the C1 category.
  • Take training courses and use online resources or revision apps that offer mock tests designed for the C1 theory section. This will help you identify areas that need improvement and build confidence.
  • Get familiar with the C1 vehicle you’ll be using for the test. Understand the controls, instrument panel and dimensions of the vehicle.
  • Take regular lessons with a qualified driving instructor. The instructor will guide you through essential manoeuvres and driving techniques before the test.
  • Focus on developing smooth and safe driving habits. This includes minimising gear changes, maintaining a steady speed and taking corners safely.
  • Finally, master the pre-drive checks, as this is one of the most overlooked parts of the practical test.

What Happens After Passing The C1 Test?

After passing the C1 test, you’ll get your driving licence. The Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) will process the licence and send it to you within 10 to 15 days after passing the test. Once you receive your licence, you’re ready to legally drive different types of C1 trucks on the road. However, keep in mind that you’ll also need a Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) if you plan to drive for pay in the UK.

What’s more, you have to keep up with maintaining your Category C1 driving licence (for drivers over 45 years old). You don’t have to worry about renewing your licence when you’re under 45, but when you cross this age limit, you need a medical assessment every five years. The frequency of the renewal increases to every three years when you turn 70.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Anyone who is 18 and has a category B driving licence is eligible to take the C1 driving test. You’ll also have to pass a medical examination from a doctor to ensure you meet the physical and mental health standards for C1 vehicle categories. You must have applied for the provisional C1 licence and previously practiced with a C1 vehicle.

The difference between a C1 and a C1+E driving licence is their towing capacity. Both licences allow you to drive different sizes of lorries up to 7.5 tonnes (7,500 kg). However, you can only tow trailers with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 0.75 tonnes (750 kg) with a C1 licence. With a C1+E, you can tow trailers exceeding 0.75 tonnes but the combined weight of the vehicle cannot be more than 12 tonnes (12,000 kg).

Yes, you need a Category B licence to apply for the C1 licence. The Category B licence is the standard driving licence in the UK, allowing you to drive cars and other vehicles under 3.5 tonnes in MAM. In addition to this licence, you need to pass a medical exam to get your provisional C1 driving licence and register for the test.

The C1 practical driving test takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. This time covers all the components of the test, from vehicle safety and reversing to manoeuvres. The time may slightly vary, depending on how the test progresses with your examiner. If your test involves a trailer (like the C1+E), this exercise will take an additional 10 to 15 minutes.

Yes, you need an LGV medical test to apply for the C1 licence. The test serves to ensure that you’re medically fit to drive vehicles in this weight class. To sign up for the test, obtain the D4 medical form from the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) website. Then you can book an appointment with your local GP to carry out the test.

Conclusion

The C1 driving test isn’t just about obtaining a licence. It aims to demonstrate that you have the skills to drive large vehicles safely. So make sure to enjoy the process and learn everything you need to. You can also continue your learning through additional training programmes to further improve your driving skills.

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