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If you want to drive a 7.5 tonne lorry or work as a paramedic, you’ll need a C1 licence. This licence covers medium-sized vehicles that are too large for a standard car licence but smaller than full HGVs.
In this guide, we’ll take you through everything: what a C1 licence is, who needs it, the costs involved, how long it takes, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re starting a career in the NHS ambulance service or considering professional driving, this article will give you a complete roadmap.
What Is a C1 Licence?
A C1 licence is a driving entitlement that allows you to drive vehicles weighing between 3,500kg (3.5 tonnes) and 7,500kg (7.5 tonnes), with a trailer up to 750kg.
Examples of C1 vehicles:
- Ambulances used by the NHS and private providers
- 7.5 tonne lorries used in logistics and removals
- Horseboxes for equestrian transport
- Utility and service vehicles carrying heavy equipment
If you passed your car test before 1 January 1997, you may already have C1 entitlement automatically on your licence. Everyone else must apply and go through the process.
🔗 DVLA: Driving licence categories
Why Paramedics Need a C1 Licence
Most ambulances in the UK weigh over 3.5 tonnes once fitted with equipment. That makes them part of the C1 category.
For paramedics, this means:
- You must hold a C1 licence before applying for paramedic roles in the NHS.
- You’ll need to pass a D4 medical examination (something Dr4D4 provides across Greater Manchester).
- You’ll be expected to demonstrate safe and confident driving during training.
🔗 NHS Careers – How to become a paramedic
Without a C1 licence, you cannot legally drive an ambulance, which makes it a non-negotiable step for anyone pursuing a career in paramedicine.
Driving a 7.5 Tonne Lorry
A 7.5 tonne lorry is widely used in industries such as:
- Logistics and deliveries – transporting retail goods, furniture, and supplies
- Removals companies – moving households and offices
- Utility services – carrying heavy machinery and tools
- Construction – delivering building materials
If your job requires you to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, your standard car licence won’t be enough. Employers often list a C1 licence as a condition of employment.
This makes the C1 category valuable not only for paramedics but also for people entering logistics and professional driving careers.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a C1 Licence in the UK
1. Apply for Provisional C1 Entitlement
- Complete the D2 form (available from DVLA or at Post Offices).
- Book a D4 medical examination, which must be completed by a doctor.
2. Pass the C1 Medical (D4)
The medical assessment ensures you’re fit to operate larger vehicles safely. At Dr4D4, this includes:
- Eyesight check (near and distance vision)
- Blood pressure reading
- General health check (heart, diabetes, neurological conditions)
- Review of your medical history
Book your C1 Medical with Dr4D4
3. Send Your Forms to DVLA
Post your completed D2 and D4 forms to DVLA.
- Processing time: usually 2–3 weeks.
- Once approved, your licence will show provisional C1 entitlement.
4. Book and Pass the Theory Tests
Two tests are required:
- Multiple-choice theory test (£26)
- Hazard perception test (£11)
You must pass both before booking practical training.
5. Practical Training
Most drivers complete a 3–5 day training course, which costs £800–£1,200. You’ll learn:
- Vehicle safety checks and walk-around inspections
- Reversing into bays
- Manoeuvring in urban and rural settings
- Driving on dual carriageways and motorways
6. Take the Practical Driving Test
The test includes:
- Vehicle safety questions
- Reversing exercise
- 50–60 minutes of on-road driving with an examiner
If successful, your C1 licence will be issued and added to your photocard licence.
How Long Does It Take to Get a C1 Licence?
On average, the process takes 6–8 weeks.
Breakdown:
- Medical and forms: 1–2 weeks
- DVLA processing: 2–3 weeks
- Theory test wait time: 1–2 weeks
- Training and practical: 1–2 weeks
Delays can occur if you fail a test or if DVLA processing takes longer. Booking your medical early speeds up the process.
How Much Does a C1 Licence Cost?
| Stage | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| D4 Medical | £50–£100 (Dr4D4 offers competitive rates) |
| Provisional Application (D2) | Free |
| Theory Test | £26 |
| Hazard Perception | £11 |
| Training (3–5 days) | £800–£1,200 |
| Practical Test | £115 (weekday) |
| Retest (if required) | £115 |
💰 Total estimate: £1,000–£1,500
C1 Licence vs HGV Licence (Category C)
| Licence Type | Weight Limit | Example Vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| C1 | 3.5–7.5 tonnes | Ambulances, 7.5 tonne lorries, horseboxes |
| Category C (HGV) | Over 7.5 tonnes | Full-sized HGVs, articulated lorries |
👉 If you plan to work in logistics long-term, you may want to consider a Category C licence instead of just C1.
🔗 Gov.uk: Become a lorry or bus driver
CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) – Do You Need It?
If you’re driving for work purposes (not just personal use), you’ll also need a Driver CPC.
The CPC includes:
- 4 tests: theory, case studies, practical driving, and practical demonstration
- 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years
👉 Paramedics are exempt from CPC, but professional drivers of 7.5 tonne lorries will need it.
Common Mistakes When Applying for a C1 Licence
- Forgetting the medical – you cannot start without it.
- Not applying early enough – DVLA delays are common.
- Failing hazard perception – many underestimate it.
- Ignoring CPC – required for most non-paramedic roles.
- Booking training too late – slots fill up quickly.
Renewals and Medical Requirements
- C1 licences are valid until you turn 45.
- After 45, you must renew every 5 years with another D4 medical.
- From age 65, renewals are every year.
This makes regular medicals part of the long-term commitment for professional drivers.
Career Opportunities with a C1 Licence
1. Paramedics
C1 is mandatory for NHS and private ambulance work. Without it, you cannot progress.
2. 7.5 Tonne Lorry Drivers
Steady demand in retail, removals, and logistics. Salaries average £24,000–£32,000.
3. Horsebox Drivers
Many private horsebox owners need a C1 licence to transport animals safely.
4. Utility and Emergency Services
Gas, electricity, and telecom companies often operate vehicles in the C1 range.
