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Just got your HGV Licence, but still have questions?

  • Nikki Prince
  • Aug 7
  • 3 min read

So after recently passing my HGV Class 2 I realised that although you study a lot towards getting the licence and absorb a lot of knowledge, sometimes you are left with questions you wish you had been told the answers too, or things you are just unsure about.



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The main thing that popped up for me after telling people I had now got my Class 2 was what I can and can't drive with that licence. Yes I can now drive a Rigid truck, but what about a Tractor Unit. This caused no end of debates, some saying yes you can, others saying no because it has a fifth wheel or yes if the fifth wheel is covered. After reading posts on several new pass groups I realised I was not alone with the unanswered questions.


So I went along to Dulsons who I did my training with to find out the answers from those in the know to some of the questions us new passes have.






  • Can I drive a tractor unit with a 5th wheel?

Yes you can drive the tractor unit but can't having anything attached 


  • Have passed my test, how do I get my tacho card?


  • How do you work out what the load capacity is of a vehicle using the vehicles weight plate?

Find useful information here Loading your HGV


  • What do you put the tacho to when waiting on bay?

If you are not self-tipping , working in anyway whatsoever then you can place on Rest/Break. If you are doing any type of work at all , including moving the vehicle this can not be classed as break , its either other work or driving.


  • Do I need to inform my car insurance I have a HGV licence?

No 


  • I passed my cpc module 2 and module 4, is that all I need as a newbie to be cpc compliant?

Yes , you will need your CPC card to drive for hire and reward. Mod 2/4 isn't just for newbies , Mod 2/4 or 35 hours is dependant when you passed your car licence (pre/post 1997)


  • Are you allowed to drive in socks if you take your boots off after being on site?

Most companies will have a health and safety policy or a policy which covers off suitable footwear , there isn't a legal stipulation however the footwear should be suitable and sufficient and ensure that it doesn't hinder the safe operation/control of the vehicle being driven. 


  • Do I book my own CPCs or does my employer?

No rules on this , most employers pay for their employees CPC although this isn't a legal requirement , it does change from employer to employer. The over-riding factor is that the employee maintains and holds a valid CPCP card. 


  • How often do I need to redo my medical?

Every 5 years until you turn 65. Once you reach 65, you will need to renew it annually. 


Hopefully this helps answer a few questions and fills in some blanks.

If you have any questions you are struggling to find the answers too feel free to drop me a message and I will see if I can help.



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