Car Drivers Driving Vehicles up to 7.5t

Following the nationwide shortage for HGV and LGV drivers, the Department for Transport has issued a statement which suggests in the near future, car drivers may be allowed to drive vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes in total GVW (gross vehicle weight), whereas current licensing allows drivers to only drive vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes in GVW.

The changes are part of ongoing plans to fill more jobs in a dwindling career sector. The shortfall of drivers reached a peak of 100,000 during the Covid-19 pandemic, although in February 2022 this figure was reported closer to 70,000. Another motive for this change in legislation is “[many hauliers face] difficulties in recruiting drivers for vehicles up to 7.5t since the requirement for an additional test came into force in 1997” Those which have chosen to complete class 2 licences since then are more likely to go into jobs driving much larger rigid HGVs where the average salary (18t rigid driver) is 8.6% higher than that of a 7.5t driver.

Transport minister Karl McCartney said: “Our country has a robust supply chain and our ongoing and unprecedented support for the haulage sector means that the number of HGV drivers is stabilising.

“We continue looking for ways to make it easier and quicker to kickstart a rewarding career in logistics. That’s why we’re asking people for their views on how we could streamline the licensing process and remove any potential barriers – making the most of our post-Brexit freedoms.”

RHA policy lead for skills, Sally Gilson, said: “It is already being incorrectly reported that people will be able to drive a 44t without a test. This consultation is for C1 (up to 7.5t) and D1 (up to 16 passengers) only. This is entitlement that anyone who passed their test before 1997 already has on their licence.

“If anyone wants to drive a C1/D1 vehicle commercially, they will still require a DCPC – this is not a part of the consultation. We will respond in full to the consultation shortly.”

As a relatively new haulier still, Transport 29 welcome the changes; while we are currently looking to add more versatile vehicles to our fleet, the possibility of being able to transport higher volumes for our customers without requiring further licensing could help keep our prices low & competitive in a busy marketplace.