Driving licence

[steamman]

hi

i have just joined the forum, Could anyone tell me if i can do my C1 test in my Motorhome as it is over 3.5 tonnes and i passed my driving test post 1997?.

thanks in advance

Lee

 

[LizziePope]

Hi Lee. Firstly: welcome to the Practical Motorhome forum! It's good to have you on board. We'll try and get you an answer – it's a great question!

 

[DorsetPete]

Hi Lee,

Please see this link to government website for details.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/rules-for-lorries-used-for-driving-tests
Be aware of the lost fee if your vehicle does not meet these requirements. I doubt if your Motorhome will be acceptable due to the tachograph requirement even if it meets the other requirements.

Good luck.

Pete

 

[TonyJones]

Yes, unfortunately the "system" assumes that anyone wanting a C1 will be a professional goods driver, so even the theory part of the test involves knowledge of drivers' hours rules, tachographs etc.
Whereas us "oldies," with our Grandfather Rights, can drive up to 7.5 tonnes without any of that!
Ideally, there should be a separate test available for people who will only use a C1 for "social domestic and pleasure," with none of the commercial stuff, but I fear it won't be a Government priority anytime soon.

 

[jonno1103]

Hi Lee,
Simple answer is no they won't.
Many of the driver training schools offer the C1 weights between 3500kgs & 7500kgs and is mainly tailored toward those wishing to drive ambulances, horse boxes and home delivery vans.

The training usually takes place in a box van such as the Iveco Daily & Transit and a few are increasingly offering an auto box option which still gives manual gearbox entitlement in a similar way to all of the CE (HGV) tests now.
C2 may also be worth a look as the cost is the same and gives an entitlement of upto 32000kg. The training and test takes place in a rigid body with around 5000kg of ballast on board.

This is the one I opted for as it may offer job opportunities in the future too. The training days were busy but also relaxed as were the classroom sessions.

This is who I went with...
http://www.tockwithtraining.co.uk/lgv_training.html

Good luck with it and enjoy your van!

Iain.