How to Upgrade Your Licence from Class 2 to Class 1: What You Need to Know

Upgrading from a Class 2 (Category C) HGV licence to a Class 1 (Category C+E) is a natural progression for many lorry drivers looking to expand their opportunities. A Class 1 licence allows you to drive the largest vehicles on UK roads – including articulated lorries with trailers – and often comes with higher earning potential and broader job prospects. This guide will walk you through the progression and requirements for upgrading, and point you toward training services that can help you make the jump.

Class 2 vs Class 1: What’s the Difference?

Before diving into the upgrade process, it’s important to understand how Class 1 and Class 2 licences differ:

• Class 2 (Cat C) – Also known as an HGV Category C licence, this qualifies you to drive rigid heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (up to 32 tonnes) with no detachable trailer over 750kg . In practical terms, Class 2 drivers operate vehicles like box trucks, tippers, refuse lorries, and other single-body trucks. These are often used for local or regional deliveries and shorter routes . Typical Salary: around £28,000–£35,000 per year in the UK .
• Class 1 (Cat C+E) – This is the top-tier HGV licence that allows you to drive articulated lorries (vehicles with a tractor unit and one or more trailers) and other large combinations over 7.5 tonnes . With a Class 1, you can handle vehicles like articulated lorries (“artics”), lorry & trailer combinations, tankers, car transporters, and more . These are the big rigs used for long-distance haulage and heavy freight. There is effectively no upper weight limit beyond legal road restrictions – it’s the highest-level HGV licence in the UK . Typical Salary: around £35,000–£45,000 per year, reflecting the higher responsibility and demand .

In short, Class 2 = rigid trucks (large goods vehicles without a detachable trailer), while Class 1 = the above plus trailers. The jump to Class 1 means you’ll be qualified to drive the largest and often most complex trucks on the road, including articulated lorries with detachable trailers . This opens up long-haul routes and specialist driving jobs that aren’t available to Class 2 drivers.

Why Upgrade to Class 1?

Upgrading from Class 2 to Class 1 can significantly boost your career prospects. Here are a few key benefits:

• Broader Job Opportunities: Many logistics and haulage companies prioritize Class 1 drivers since they can drive any HGV, including articulated trucks. With a Class 1 (Cat C+E) licence, you qualify for high-demand roles nationwide – from supermarket artics and container haulage to fuel tankers and heavy recovery vehicles . In fact, a Class 1 licence “opens doors to high-demand, high-reward driving roles” across the UK .
• Higher Earning Potential: As noted, Class 1 drivers often earn more. Long-distance and specialist drivers (e.g. tanker or ADR drivers) can command premium wages. Typical salaries for Class 1 are several thousand pounds higher per year than for Class 2 , reflecting the added skill and flexibility you bring.
• Drive the Largest Vehicles: If you’re passionate about trucking, upgrading lets you get behind the wheel of the biggest rigs. From 44-tonne articulated lorries to big crane-assisted trucks and road trains, Class 1 drivers handle it all. Many see it as the pinnacle of HGV driving – indeed, “a Class 1 (Cat C+E) licence… is the highest-level HGV licence in the UK” .
• Future-Proofing Your Career: Holding a Class 1 means you won’t need to obtain any higher HGV licence – you already have the top category. Even if you start in a Class 2 job, having the Class 1 qualification can make you eligible for internal promotions or vacancies that may arise for articulated vehicle drivers.

In summary, upgrading to Class 1 makes you a more versatile driver and can lead to better jobs and pay. Now, let’s look at what it takes to make the leap.

Requirements for Upgrading from Class 2 to Class 1

The good news is that if you’ve already gone through the process of getting your Class 2 (Cat C) licence, you’ve completed most of the groundwork. Here’s what you need to upgrade to Class 1 (Cat C+E):

• A Full Class 2 Licence: You must hold a valid Category C (Class 2) HGV licence before you can obtain Category C+E. This is a strict prerequisite – the Class 1 test builds on the skills from Class 2. (In the UK you can do a combined “Direct Access” course straight to Class 1 without a prior Class 2, but you would still have to pass the Cat C test as part of that combined process. This guide assumes you are already a Class 2 driver.)
• Provisional Entitlement for Cat C+E: Just as you needed a provisional HGV licence for Cat C, you’ll need one for Cat C+E. However, you usually won’t need to apply separately in many cases. Since November 2021, drivers who obtain a Cat C licence automatically get provisional entitlement for C+E added to their licence . This means if you passed Class 2 recently, you likely already have the ability to train and take the Class 1 test without filling in new DVLA forms. If you obtained your Class 2 before that change and don’t see a provisional C+E on your licence, you can apply to add it by sending form D2 (and possibly a medical form D4) to the DVLA – there’s no fee for this. Your training provider can guide you through this step if needed.
• Age and Medical Fitness: The age requirement for Class 1 is the same as for Class 2. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) if you’re under 21. (Most drivers will have completed CPC as part of getting their Class 2 if they intended to drive for a living.) You also need to be medically fit to drive large vehicles. If you passed a HGV medical for your Class 2, that remains valid; typically, HGV drivers require a medical exam (DVLA D4 form) every 5 years after age 45, or sooner if a condition develops. Ensure your medical status hasn’t changed – if in doubt, consult a doctor and update the DVLA.
• Driver CPC (for Professional Driving): If you plan to use your Class 1 licence for hire or reward (i.e. as a professional driver), you need a valid Driver CPC qualification. This doesn’t directly affect getting the licence itself – you can pass the C+E test without CPC – but you cannot legally drive Class 1 commercially without CPC. Most likely, you obtained CPC Module 4 when you did Class 2 (many Class 2 training packages include the initial CPC ). In that case, you’re covered; CPC is category-agnostic, so your existing Driver Qualification Card applies to Class 1 as well. If you never did CPC (for example, if you got Class 2 for personal use or military use exempt from CPC), you’ll need to complete the initial CPC (Module 2 case study and Module 4 practical demo) before you can drive Class 1 vehicles for work. The periodic CPC training cycle (35 hours every 5 years) also continues regardless of upgrading – upgrading doesn’t reset the clock. Just keep this in mind so you remain compliant when you start driving Class 1 professionally.
• No New Theory Test Needed: A common question is “Do I need to re-do the theory test for Class 1?” – The answer is no, as long as you have already passed the HGV theory and hazard perception tests for your Class 2. The theory test (Driver CPC Part 1) covers the general knowledge for large vehicles, and passing it once is sufficient for both Cat C and C+E. The UK government explicitly states that you do not need to take the Driver CPC part 1 test again in order to upgrade from C to C+E . Your existing theory test certificate (and CPC Module 2 if applicable) will carry over. This saves you time and money in the upgrade process. (Do note: if for some reason your theory test pass expired – theory passes are valid for two years – you would need to retake it before doing the practical C+E tests. But assuming you moved from car to Class 2 to Class 1 in a normal timeframe, this shouldn’t be an issue.)

In summary, the main hurdle remaining is the practical training and tests for the Class 1 licence. If you’re a licensed Class 2 driver who is medically fit and has your provisional C+E, you’re ready to begin the upgrade!

The Upgrade Process: Step-by-Step

Upgrading from Class 2 to Class 1 essentially involves preparing for and passing the practical driving tests for Category C+E. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Find an Appropriate Training Course: Enroll with a reputable HGV training provider that offers Class 1 (Cat C+E) upgrade courses. You’ll want a course specifically designed for drivers who already have Class 2, focusing on the new skills needed for Class 1. For example, at 123HGV we offer short Class 1 courses (often as little as 16 hours of training) tailored for Class 2 licence holders . These courses assume you’re already familiar with driving a heavy rigid truck, so they concentrate on mastering the articulated vehicle. Make sure the course includes practical off-road maneuver training and on-road instruction with a loaded trailer, as well as the booking of the required DVSA tests.
2. Brush Up on Trailer Maneuvering and Coupling: During training, much of your time will be spent learning how to handle the vehicle-trailer combination safely. Key skills include reversing an articulated lorry into tight spaces (the classic “S-shaped” reverse into a bay), and coupling/uncoupling the trailer from the tractor unit. These are skills unique to Class 1 driving that you didn’t need for Class 2. A good training program will give you hands-on practice in a safe environment – for instance, practicing the reverse exercise at an off-road site . You’ll also learn how to couple and uncouple trailers correctly as part of the routine. (The DVSA practical exam will include an assessment of safe coupling/uncoupling procedure , so pay close attention to this during training.)
3. Prepare for the Tests (DVSA Part 3a and 3b): Upgrading to Class 1 requires you to pass two practical tests:
   • Driver CPC Part 3a: Off-Road Exercises. This is an off-road test of your maneuvering skills. It typically involves the reversing exercise (backing the articulated lorry into a coned bay accurately) and a controlled stop. In the Class 1 test, you will also be tested on uncoupling and recoupling the trailer safely. Your instructor will ensure you know the proper sequence (trailer parking brake, landing legs, airlines, etc.) and can demonstrate it.
   • Driver CPC Part 3b: On-Road Driving. This is a road test with a DVSA examiner, similar in format to your Class 2 on-road test, but now you’re driving a larger vehicle with different handling characteristics. The examiner will be looking for competent gear control (if using manual/semi-automatic), lane positioning, awareness, and smooth driving while towing a long trailer. You’ll encounter various road types (city streets, dual carriageways, roundabouts, etc.) and must demonstrate good observation and mirrors use – especially when making wider turns or changing lanes with the trailer. Essentially, you need to show you can drive an articulated lorry safely on public roads.
   Your training will cover all these aspects. Many find the reversing exercise the trickiest part, so practice it as much as possible. Also, get comfortable with the vehicle’s turning radius – with a trailer, you have to steer differently (taking corners wider). By test day, you should be confident in both the yard maneuvers and general driving.
4. Pass the C+E Practical Tests: When ready, you’ll take the Part 3a and 3b tests (often scheduled close together). You’ll use an appropriate test vehicle that meets DVSA specifications for Cat C+E (your training provider will supply this – usually an articulated lorry or a drawbar combination that qualifies as C+E ). Assuming you put in the practice, you’ll pass and become a fully qualified Class 1 driver! 🎉 Upon passing, the examiner will guide you on upgrading your licence. Typically, your driving licence will be sent off to the DVLA to add the Category C+E entitlement, and you’ll receive a new photocard with Cat C+E listed. You do not need to take any additional theory or CPC tests at this stage – passing the practical is the final step.
5. Next Steps – Use Your New Licence: With a Class 1 licence in hand, you can start driving the big rigs. If you already have a job that required Class 2, talk to your employer about Class 1 opportunities. Many companies are eager to promote Class 2 drivers to Class 1 roles once qualified. If you’re job hunting, the good news is 123HGV (and many other trainers) offer job support. For instance, we guarantee a job interview to every trainee who passes with us – this means you can quickly put your new qualification to use. Be sure your Driver CPC is up to date (you’ll need that Driver Qualification Card on you while driving commercially). Then it’s just a matter of gaining experience on Class 1 vehicles. Some routes or companies might require a short assessment drive for new Class 1 drivers, but your training should have prepared you well. Take it slow and steady as you adjust to life with a trailer – confidence will grow with each trip.

Tip: Upgrading to Class 1 doesn’t mean you’re stuck driving artics only. Your licence will still allow you to drive rigid trucks (Class 2) as well. In fact, with a Cat C+E licence, you effectively have all the LGV privileges (C1, C, and C+E). This flexibility can be useful – you can cover Class 2 shifts if needed, but now you’re also qualified for Class 1 jobs, giving you a wider range of driving opportunities.

What Training Involves (and Why It’s Shorter for Upgraders)

If you’re wondering what Class 1 training will cover (especially since you’ve already done HGV training for Class 2), here’s a brief overview of the focus areas:

• Advanced Driving Techniques: You’ll refine your existing driving skills for a larger vehicle. Expect to practice gear changes (if not in an automatic), speed control on highways, and dealing with the extra length and pivot of a trailer. Driving with a trailer requires more forward planning – you’ll train on how to safely overtake, merge, and corner with an articulated lorry.
• Reversing and Maneuvering: As mentioned, a big component is learning to reverse an articulated vehicle. Unlike a rigid truck, the trailer will pivot in the opposite direction of your steering input when reversing – a skill that can feel counter-intuitive at first. Your instructor will likely set up cones to simulate a loading bay or alley dock so you can master this. Don’t worry, with practice most drivers get the hang of it; many even come to enjoy the challenge!
• Coupling & Uncoupling: You’ll be taught the step-by-step procedure to attach and detach a trailer safely. This includes all the physical checks (air lines, electrical connections, securing the kingpin, raising/lowering landing legs, etc.) and safety precautions (e.g. ensuring the trailer parking brake is on). Proper coupling technique is essential – mistakes can be costly or dangerous (trailer rollaways, dropped trailers). By test time, you should be able to recite and perform the coupling routine from memory.
• Load Security & Vehicle Checks: If your Class 2 training didn’t already cover it in depth, Class 1 training will emphasize securing loads on trailers and doing thorough vehicle walkaround checks. Trailers can carry large, often heavy loads, so understanding weight distribution and the use of straps, chains, or seals might be touched on. Additionally, you’ll ensure you know how to check the coupling, trailer lights, tires on both unit and trailer, etc., during your pre-drive inspection.

One advantage you have as an upgrader is that you do not need to repeat things like the theory or initial CPC (unless you haven’t done CPC yet). Your training hours can fully focus on practical skills. This is why upgrade courses are typically much shorter than starting from scratch. For example, many Class 1 upgrade courses run ~16 to 20 hours total (often spread over 4–5 days) , whereas someone with no HGV experience might train for 30+ hours to cover both rigid and articulated in one go. You already have a foundation, so you’re essentially adding the trailer aspect to it.

It’s worth noting that because of a rule change, some drivers choose to skip Class 2 and go straight to Class 1 via an extended “Direct Access” course. If you have friends or colleagues mentioning this, understand that the end goal is the same – they’ll just train longer in one stretch. For you who already hold Class 2, a short upgrade course is the most efficient path. In fact, training providers explicitly offer packages for “Class 2 upgrades” that recognise your existing skills and focus only on new material .

Career Impact: From Class 2 Driver to Class 1 Driver

Once you upgrade, what kind of roles become available? Here are a few examples of what a Class 1 licence lets you do (beyond what you could with Class 2):

• Long-Haul Freight: Class 1 drivers often do long-distance runs, moving goods from distribution centers to regional hubs or across countries. The detachable trailer is ideal for dropping and swapping loads. For instance, you might drive overnight trunking routes between cities. Many logistics companies require Class 1 for their trunking and articulated lorry jobs, which are the backbone of national supply chains .
• Articulated Tankers and Specialist Rigs: With Cat C+E you can drive tankers (fuel, chemicals, milk, etc.), car transporter trucks, and other specialized HGVs. These roles can be high paying. Some require additional qualifications (like an ADR certificate for dangerous goods), but Class 1 is the base requirement. Companies in petroleum, chemical transport, etc., seek Class 1 drivers and often mention it’s a higher-tier job.
• Heavier or Double Trailers: In the UK, the standard max is one full trailer (artic). But there are also drawbar combinations (a rigid truck pulling a full trailer) – also requiring Cat C+E. And as trials progress, the UK is testing longer semi-trailers and potentially extra-long combinations. You’ll be qualified for any such developments. Essentially, any large goods vehicle with a detachable or towed unit is within your remit .
• Higher Earnings and Progression: As noted earlier, moving to Class 1 can bump you into a higher salary bracket. Many companies have a pay structure where Class 1 work is paid a premium per hour over Class 2. Also, if you aspire to roles like HGV instructor, transport manager, or other advanced positions, having the top licence is often beneficial or required. Even if you don’t have those plans now, it’s nice to future-proof your credentials.

Finally, driving Class 1 can be a point of pride – not everyone on the road can say they command a 40+ tonne vehicle with a pivoting joint! It’s a challenge and an accomplishment. With your upgrade, you join the ranks of drivers qualified to keep the biggest wheels of commerce turning.

Upgrade Training Services and Next Steps

Upgrading is much easier with the right training support. At 123HGV, we specialise in helping Class 2 drivers become Class 1 drivers smoothly. We have eight training locations across England and offer flexible courses to fit your schedule . Here are a few ways we can help you on your journey from Class 2 to Class 1:

• Nationwide Training Locations: You can train near home – we have dedicated HGV training centres in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Leicester, Warrington, and more. For example, our Leicester centre covers “all licence levels—from beginners aiming for Class 2 to experienced drivers upgrading to Class 1 (Cat C+E)” , and in Warrington we welcome everyone “from 7.5 Tonne and Class 2 to Class 1… Whether you’re new to the world of logistics or ready to upgrade your licence” . No matter which depot you choose, you’ll find modern vehicles and experienced instructors ready to guide you.
• Tailored Upgrade Courses: Our Class 1 courses for existing Class 2 drivers are streamlined to focus on what you need. As noted, course durations can be as short as 4–5 days since you’re already halfway there . We provide hands-on practice with trailer reversing (we even have off-road facilities for the Part 3a reversing exercise practice) and one-to-one coaching on coupling/uncoupling. Essentially, we tailor the training to build on your Class 2 experience so you gain confidence quickly in the articulated lorry. (If you were starting from scratch, we also have Direct Access courses, but as an upgrader you won’t need the longer direct course .)
• DVSA Test Booking and Support: We’ll handle the logistics of booking your Class 1 practical tests at a nearby DVSA center when you’re ready. Our team ensures all the paperwork (provisional entitlement, etc.) is in order – so you can focus on training. On the day of your test, you’ll use our well-maintained training vehicles that meet the exam requirements . We aim for first-time passes – in fact, we’re proud of a 97% first-time pass rate across our HGV courses .
• Finance and Scheduling Flexibility: We understand upgrading is an investment in your career. To make it easier, we offer flexible payment plans – for instance, you can Pay in 3 instalments with PayPal Credit, spreading the cost over three months interest-free . Scheduling is flexible too: we have short-notice slots and even weekend/evening training options at some locations to accommodate drivers who may be working while training .
• Job Placement Assistance: The goal of upgrading is to advance your career, and we help with that transition. Every 123HGV trainee who passes is guaranteed a job interview with one of our logistics partners or an affiliated employer . Our recruitment support can connect you to Class 1 driving vacancies so you can start earning with your new licence right away. Many of our graduates land jobs driving Class 1 within days of passing their test, across industries like grocery delivery, freight haulage, and tanker operations.

Ready to upgrade? When you feel the time is right, the next step is to get in touch and book your training course. You can reach out to us via phone (024 7541 4123) or simply use our online form. Head over to our Get Started page and choose “HGV Class 1 (Cat C+E) Licence” from the course dropdown to send your details – our team will contact you to discuss the best course for your needs . We’ll guide you through everything from checking your licence entitlements to scheduling your medical (if needed) and theory refreshers, all the way to booking your practical test slots.

Remember, whether you’re aiming for a Class 1 upgrade or stepping into professional driving for the first time, you’re in the right place . Many of our instructors are veteran Class 1 drivers themselves and understand the journey you’re on. We’ll support you every step of the way.

Conclusion

Upgrading from a Class 2 to a Class 1 HGV licence is an exciting milestone in your driving career. It may feel like a big step up – and it is – but with your existing experience and the proper training, it’s entirely achievable. You’ve already proven yourself by obtaining your Class 2; now you’re building on that foundation to reach the top level of HGV driving.

In this guide, we covered the key requirements (basically, having your Cat C licence and staying medically/CPC qualified) and the process (focus on training for the trailer, then passing the off-road and on-road tests). We also highlighted the benefits: from driving the biggest trucks to earning bigger paychecks and unlocking more job options. The path to Class 1 is well-trodden – thousands of drivers upgrade every year – and with a nearly 100% pass rate for those who prepare adequately, you can approach it with confidence.

Your next move? If you’re serious about upgrading, don’t let the opportunity sit idle. The logistics industry is eager for qualified Class 1 drivers, and that demand is only growing as freight volumes increase. By taking the initiative to upgrade, you’re investing in a skill that will pay off for decades to come. So gear up, take advantage of the training resources available, and soon you’ll be proudly holding that Class 1 licence.

When you’re ready, 123HGV is here to help get you in the driver’s seat of an articulated lorry. From London to Leeds and Manchester to Milton Keynes, we’ve got you covered with top-notch training and support. Upgrading your licence might just be the best career decision you make in logistics – many drivers say it opened doors they never imagined.

Get started today, and before you know it, you’ll be saying goodbye to rigid-only driving and hello to the world of Class 1! Safe driving, and see you on the road as a fellow Class 1 driver soon 🚚💨.