C1 Licence – How Much Does it Cost to Get a C1 Licence?

If you’re looking to drive vehicles between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes – such as ambulances, delivery trucks, or horsebox lorries – you’ll need a Category C1 licence. This licence is particularly important for aspiring paramedics, because most ambulances fall into the C1 weight class. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover what the C1 licence entails, who needs it, the steps to obtain it, and a breakdown of all the costs involved (updated for 2025). By the end, you’ll know exactly what to budget for and how to go about getting your C1 licence.

What is a C1 Licence and Who Needs One?

A Category C1 licence permits you to drive “medium-sized vehicles” – those with a gross weight between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg (3.5 to 7.5 tonnes) . It’s basically the step between an ordinary car (Category B, up to 3.5t) and a large truck (Category C, which is for vehicles over 7.5t). Common vehicles that require a C1 licence include:

• Ambulances: Modern emergency ambulances often weigh around 5 tonnes or more once equipped, so new paramedics typically need C1 to drive them.
• Delivery Trucks: 7.5-tonne box vans or trucks (often used by delivery companies, furniture movers, etc.).
• Utility Trucks and Specialist Vehicles: Utility company vans, some fire/rescue service vehicles, or small tippers and flatbeds up to 7.5t.
• Horseboxes and Large Campervans: Many horsebox lorries and certain large motorhomes exceed 3.5t, so owners or hobbyists need C1 to drive them.

In the past, drivers who got their car licence before 1997 automatically received C1 entitlement. However, if you passed your car test on or after 1 January 1997, you do not have C1 on your licence and must go through the process to add it. This particularly affects paramedics in training, since most will have earned their car licence after that cutoff. Indeed, almost all NHS ambulance trusts now require paramedic recruits to hold a C1 licence because the ambulances are over the standard car weight limit . Even if you are not going into ambulance work, if your job (or hobby) involves driving a 7.5-tonne vehicle, you’ll need to get the C1 qualification.

Paramedic drivers and CPC: One key thing to know – unlike truck or bus drivers, paramedics and other emergency service drivers are exempt from the Driver CPC rules. This means that if you’re getting a C1 solely to drive an ambulance for the NHS (or other emergency medical service), you do not need to obtain the Driver CPC qualification (the extra tests for modules 2 and 4) . The logic is that you’re not a commercial driver; driving is incidental to your primary role as a medic. We’ll touch on cost implications of this later. However, if you plan to use the C1 for other jobs (like driving a delivery lorry for a company), you would need the CPC. Keep this in mind as it can save time and money for those focusing purely on ambulance work.

Now, let’s outline the process to get your C1 licence.

How to Get Your C1 Licence – Step by Step

Getting a C1 licence is very similar to the process for an HGV (Category C) licence, just with a smaller vehicle. Here are the main steps:

1. Apply for Provisional C1 Licence: Obtain a D2/D4 pack (the same forms are used for lorry licences). You’ll need to complete the D2 application to add Category C1 provisional entitlement, and have a D4 medical examination conducted by a doctor. The medical for C1 checks your eyesight, blood pressure, and general health to ensure you’re fit to drive a large vehicle. Once you submit these to DVLA and they approve, your driving licence will be updated to show provisional C1. There’s typically no fee for adding the provisional (aside from any cost if you needed a new photocard); the main cost here is the medical exam itself.
2. Pass the LGV Theory Tests: “LGV” (Large Goods Vehicle) theory tests apply to C1 as well. There are two parts: the multiple-choice theory test (focused on truck/heavy vehicle regulations, road signs, safety, etc.) and the hazard perception test (video clips where you identify developing hazards). The combined cost for these is £26 + £11 = £37 (DVSA official fee) . If you were going for a full Category C or driving commercially, there’s also the CPC Part 2 (Case Studies) test (£23), but as noted, if you’re a paramedic trainee solely needing C1 for ambulance driving, you do not need to take the CPC theory. (Many ambulance-focused training programs will simply skip this.) Study materials for the theory are widely available. Some training providers include theory preparation in their packages – for instance, 123HGV has a package with theory study aids and test booking included, which can simplify this stage.
3. Take C1 Driver Training: Once you have provisional entitlement and have passed theory, the main part is the practical training. Even if you’re an experienced car driver, training is crucial because a 7.5t vehicle handles very differently – it’s larger, heavier, with longer braking distances and different gearbox (possibly). Most C1 training courses are short (since C1 is the smallest of the commercial licence vehicles). Many providers offer 2-day courses, and some even offer an intensive 1-day course if you already have experience with vans or larger vehicles. At 123HGV, for example, there’s a 1-day C1 course (from £499) for confident drivers, a 2-day course (around £795) for those who want more practice, and a longer 3-day option (~£1,115) for beginners who want thorough training . During training, you’ll learn vehicle safety checks (important for the test), how to control the larger vehicle, mirror usage, reversing maneuvers, and driving in traffic with a laden 7.5t. If you’re specifically training for ambulance driving, instructors may also tailor the training to scenarios like blue-light policies or patient comfort, though the test itself is just a standard C1 driving test without emergency driving techniques.
4. Pass the Practical Tests (Module 3): The C1 practical exam also has two modules, similar to D1: Module 3a off-road exercise and Module 3b on-road test. For goods vehicles, the off-road exercise usually involves a reversing maneuver into a bay and possibly a controlled stop exercise (and coupling/uncoupling if it were a trailer test, but for C1 there’s no trailer in the basic category). The on-road test will last about an hour and cover various road types, hill starts, roundabouts, etc., with the examiner ensuring you drive safely and confidently in the larger vehicle. The test fees for C1 are the same as for any lorry: £115 for the on-road test (£141 on weekends) and £40 for the off-road maneuver test . If you train with 123HGV or a similar school, they usually let you use the same training vehicle for the test and arrange the test booking for you. Once you pass, you’ve earned your C1 licence! You’ll send off your licence to DVLA to get the new category added (or it may be done automatically at the test centre now if they have the digital system).
5. Driver CPC Initial Qualification (Modules 2 & 4, if needed): As mentioned, Driver CPC is generally not required for paramedics or anyone driving C1 for non-commercial purposes (e.g. driving your own horsebox or RV). However, if you do need it (for example, you plan to use C1 to take a job driving a delivery truck for a logistics company), you would have to do the CPC tests as well. That involves an additional theory test (Case Studies, module 2) and a practical demonstration test (module 4). Module 4 is typically done after you pass the driving test – it’s a separate appointment where the examiner observes you explaining safety checks, loading, etc., on a vehicle. The costs for these are £23 for the case studies and £55 for the module 4 test . Some training companies offer specific “C1 + CPC” packages if you need it. For the scope of this guide (focusing on paramedic and basic C1 needs), we’ll assume CPC is optional. If you’re going into the ambulance service, you can breathe a sigh of relief that you likely won’t need to spend time or money on CPC – once you have the C1 licence, you’re good to go for the NHS.

Alright, with the steps clear, let’s break down the expected costs for a C1 licence in detail.

C1 Licence Cost Breakdown

Just like with any vocational driving licence, the cost of obtaining a C1 can be divided into a few key parts. We’ll list each component with typical price ranges:

• Medical Exam (D4) – £50–£120: You need a doctor’s medical report to get your C1 provisional. Prices for this vary; budget around £80 on average. Some have found clinics for ~£50, while some GPs charge over £100. It’s a one-time cost. (With 123HGV’s Medical & Theory package, currently from £99, your medical exam is included along with theory prep , which is great value if you go that route.)
• Provisional Licence Application – £0–£34: DVLA doesn’t charge to add higher categories to an existing licence, so in most cases there’s no fee here. The only scenario you’d pay a fee is if you needed to apply for your first licence or renew an expired licence – that’s around £34 online . But for adding C1 entitlement, it’s typically free; you just wait a couple of weeks for DVLA to process your forms.
• Theory Tests – £37 total (or £60 with CPC): The two mandatory theory tests cost £37 in total (multiple-choice + hazard perception) . If you require the CPC case study test, that’s an extra £23, bringing it to £60. These are standard DVSA fees (no VAT). Remember, paramedic trainees usually skip the CPC test, so most will just pay £37. Some training providers might book these for you or include them in a package. Ensure you also account for any study materials if needed (though many free resources exist, and 123HGV provides online practice as part of their package).
• Practical C1 Training – £500–£1,100: The training course is the core of your investment. The cost depends on how many days of training you need and your location. For example:
  • Intensive 1-Day Course: If you’re an experienced driver (perhaps you already drive large vans or lorries in the military) and just need polishing up for the test, you might do a one-day intensive course. Some companies offer this for around £500 (like 123HGV’s 1-day course from £499 ). This usually includes a few hours of training and taking the test on the same day or next day.
  • Standard 2-Day Course: This is the most common option. A two-day C1 training course (with a test at the end) often costs roughly £700–£800. For instance, other training academies have packages around £799–£999 for 2 days including the test . 123HGV lists a 2-day course from £795 including VAT .
  • Extended 3-Day Course: If you feel you need more practice or are nervous, a 3-day course provides extra hours behind the wheel. These tend to cost in the £1,000–£1,200 range. (123HGV’s 3-day is from £1,115 with VAT .) While it’s more money, it can be worth it if it helps you pass on the first try.
  These prices often include the use of the vehicle for the test and possibly the test fees – always double-check what’s included. Regional differences: training in big cities (London, etc.) might be a bit pricier than elsewhere. One source notes C1 training courses plus test commonly cost around £1,000–£1,500 total in the UK . In any case, budget around a thousand pounds for training; it could be less if you’re doing a short course, or more if you need extra hours.
• Practical Test Fees – £115 (£155 including 3a): If not already covered in your course fee, remember the DVSA charges for the tests themselves: £115 for the on-road driving test (weekday rate) and £40 for the reversing exercise. So, approximately £155 in total (slightly more if you end up on a weekend test slot). Training schools will typically collect this from you and pay DVSA when booking your tests. These fees are standard (and you’d pay them again for a retest if needed).
• Driver CPC (Modules 2 & 4) – £0 (paramedic) or ~£300 (commercial): Here’s where paths diverge:
  • If you’re focusing on paramedic use only, you likely spend £0 on CPC – you don’t have to do the extra tests or training. That’s a saving of both time and money.
  • If you do need CPC for other driving jobs, expect to pay the £23 for the case study test and ~£55 for the Module 4 test . Additionally, Module 4 training sessions are often ~£100–£200 if not included (some providers offer a package). For example, you might find a combined price around £250–£300 to cover the CPC training and tests. The good news is you can add CPC later if you initially got C1 for ambulance work and then decide to use it for a commercial job – you’d just need to go back and do modules 2 and 4 at that time.

Total estimated cost: For most paramedic trainees or individuals getting C1 without CPC, the total cost is roughly in the £800 to £1,300 range. Let’s break a few scenarios:

• Example 1 – Paramedic, 2-day course: Medical (£80) + theory (£37) + 2-day training & test (~£800) = ~£917 all-in. (If your course included the test fee, it might already be in that £800).
• Example 2 – Confident driver, 1-day course: Medical (£50) + theory (£37) + 1-day intensive & test (£500) = ~£587 – a very low end, assuming you pass quickly (this is basically the best-case budget).
• Example 3 – Including CPC for commercial driving: Medical (£80) + theory+case (£60) + training (£800) + CPC training & tests (£250) = ~£1,190. If training cost more or you did a longer course, it could go up to ~£1,500.

For a broader perspective, the College of Paramedics noted that C1 training and test typically costs around £1,000–£1,500 in total , which aligns with our analysis. The investment can be significant, especially for students, which is why there have even been discussions about removing the C1 requirement for paramedic entry due to cost barriers . But as of 2025, the requirement remains, so planning financially for this is important.

One more tip: Try your best to pass on the first attempt. Re-tests will add extra £115 here, £115 there, which can quickly inflate your costs. Don’t rush your practical test if you don’t feel ready – an extra hour or day of training is cheaper than a full retest and additional wait time.

Ways to Manage the Cost of C1 Training

While you can’t avoid the necessary steps, here are some ways to make the C1 licence more affordable:

• Look for Sponsorship/Support: If you’re becoming a paramedic through a university program or apprenticeship, check if the ambulance service or program offers any help with C1 training costs. Some ambulance trusts have been known to cover C1 training for students or reimburse expenses once you’re employed. Similarly, if you need C1 for a job (like a delivery company), ask if they invest in employee training. A few employers might subsidize it since a C1 licence benefits them too.
• Choose the Right Training Package: Many training schools offer bundle deals. For example, a package that includes the medical exam, theory test, and maybe some resit protection could save money compared to paying each component separately. 123HGV’s Paramedic C1 packages start from £99 for medical+theory and £499 for a one-day course , scaling up for longer courses – very competitive pricing. By bundling, you often get a discount versus a piecemeal approach.
• Flexible Payment Options: As with HGV training, lots of providers now have payment plans. 123HGV lets you split the cost into three payments interest-free (PayPal Pay-in-3) , which can ease the immediate burden. Others partner with finance companies for low-interest loans for training. Always be sure to read the terms, but it’s worth considering if paying in installments helps you proceed sooner.
• Local Training to Save Travel Costs: Pick a training location that’s convenient to reduce any travel or accommodation expenses. With 123HGV, for instance, you can train at eight different centres across England (including Wigan, Chorley, Accrington, Sheffield, Lichfield, Bedworth, Milton Keynes, and London) . There are also city-specific courses available (e.g., in Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, etc.). Training near where you live means you won’t have to pay for hotels or long commutes during the course.
• Practice on Your Own (if possible): It’s tricky because you can’t legally drive a 7.5t on public roads without the licence, but if you have access to a private road or yard and a suitable vehicle (maybe through a friend or employer), getting a bit of familiarity can help cut down the training you need. Even just sitting in a cab and learning the controls or practicing basic reversing in a safe, off-road environment (with a qualified person’s supervision) could give you a head start. This isn’t feasible for everyone, but worth mentioning.
• Leverage Your Existing Skills: If you’ve driven large vans (up to 3.5t) extensively, or you have towing experience, let your instructor know – you might be able to do an assessment drive and go for a shorter course, saving money. Some schools might offer an assessment session to gauge how many training hours you truly need. For example, if you handle the vehicle well, they might suggest a 1-day course instead of 2-day, knocking a few hundred off the cost.

Remember, while cost is important, don’t just pick the cheapest option blindly. Quality of training matters a lot – a good instructor and well-maintained vehicle can be the difference between passing or failing. It’s about value: the goal is to spend what it takes to get the licence and not have to redo anything.

Begin Your C1 Training – Invest in Your Future

Earning your C1 licence will open doors, whether it’s landing that paramedic job or being able to drive bigger vehicles for work and leisure. It might feel like a lot of steps, but each one is manageable with the right support. 123HGV has helped many paramedics, NHS applicants, and drivers across the country get their C1 licences quickly and affordably. In fact, we offer short-notice C1 courses (so you don’t have to wait months for training dates) and even guarantee a job interview for our successful trainees – meaning you could go straight from passing your test into employment .

Ready to take the next step? We provide Paramedic C1 licence training in multiple locations, including Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham, Wigan, London, and Coventry. Each of our training centers is equipped with modern vehicles and patient, expert instructors who understand the needs of learner paramedic drivers. We’ll guide you from your initial application and medical, through theory and practical training, all the way to that moment you proudly hold your new licence.

The cost of a C1 licence is an investment in your career and skills. Spread out your payments, take advantage of our starter packages, and before you know it, you’ll be fully qualified. Don’t let the figures intimidate you – with high pass rates, flexible financing, and top-notch training, we aim to make getting your C1 as smooth and cost-effective as possible.

Contact us today to find out more or to book your C1 training course. Your journey to driving 7.5-tonne vehicles – and, for many, to starting an exciting career as a paramedic – begins now! Good luck, and we’ll see you on the road to success.