Heavy Rigid Truck Licence: Your Top Questions Answered

If you’re considering a career in heavy vehicle transport, obtaining a heavy rigid licence is a crucial step. Many aspiring truck drivers frequently ask questions about HR trucks, licensing, and training. In this guide, we answer the most common questions to help you navigate your journey to becoming a certified heavy rigid truck driver in Australia.

What is a Heavy Rigid Truck?

A heavy rigid truck is a vehicle with three or more axles and a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of over 8 tonnes. These trucks are commonly used in industries such as construction, logistics, and public transport.

Examples of heavy rigid trucks include:

• Large delivery trucks
• Concrete mixers
• Buses
• Waste collection vehicles

How Do I Get a Heavy Rigid Licence in Australia?

To obtain a nationally recognised heavy rigid truck licence, you must complete a structured training program that ensures compliance with Australian road safety laws. The training covers vehicle handling, regulatory requirements, and safety protocols. To qualify for a heavy rigid licence (HR licence), you must:

• Hold a valid car licence (open or provisional) for at least two years.
• Complete an accredited HR truck training course, such as the RAISE Training Heavy Rigid Truck Licensing Course.
• Pass a heavy vehicle knowledge test and practical driving assessment.
• Submit your application to your state’s transport department. In Queensland, visit the QLD Government Licensing Portal.

How Heavy is a Heavy Rigid Truck?

The weight of a heavy rigid truck varies depending on the model and industry use. Typically, HR trucks have a GVM exceeding 8,000 kg, with some vehicles weighing up to 15,000 kg or more when fully loaded.

How Long is a Heavy Rigid Truck?

The length of a heavy rigid truck depends on its configuration. On average, an HR truck measures between 8 to 12 metres in length. Certain buses and transport vehicles can be even longer.

How Hard is it to Drive a Heavy Rigid Truck?

Driving a heavy rigid truck involves mastering advanced vehicle control techniques. Training courses focus on real-world scenarios, helping learners gain confidence in handling large vehicles in various road conditions. Driving an HR truck requires more skill than driving a standard car. However, with proper training and practice, most learners become comfortable quickly. Key challenges include:

• Handling the size and weight of the vehicle.
• Managing blind spots and wide turns.
• Reversing and parking in tight spaces.

Our training programs provide hands-on experience to ensure you gain the confidence needed to operate an HR truck safely.

Can I Drive an HR Truck with a Car Licence?

No, a car licence does not allow you to drive a heavy rigid truck. You must complete an HR truck licensing course and pass a practical driving test before operating a vehicle of this size.

What Jobs Can I Get with a Heavy Rigid Licence?

An HR truck licence qualifies you for roles in various industries, including:

• Freight & Logistics – Driving heavy goods transport trucks.
• Construction – Operating concrete mixers and material transport vehicles.
• Waste Management – Driving council and private waste disposal trucks.
• Public Transport – Becoming a bus driver for private or government fleets.

Pro Tip for New Drivers

Familiarise yourself with different road conditions by practicing in open spaces before driving in traffic. Confidence builds with experience!

How Long Does HR Truck Training Take?

This course is based on the requirements of the Heavy Vehicle Competency Based Assessment (HVCBA) Scheme.

The Heavy Rigid Truck Licensing Course at RAISE Training is a nationally recognised program designed to be comprehensive and efficient. Drivers upgrading to the HR licence receive up to 12 hours of training and assessment activity time, depending on the gearbox endorsement.

Transport for NSW Scheme Policies and Procedures require a minimum of 5 to 6 hours of assessment time, plus a Final Competency Assessment (FCA). If additional time is required for a client to reach a competent standard, extra training sessions may be necessary. This is clearly explained at enquiry (email and phone) and further confirmed upon enrolment.

The duration of training depends on experience level and training format:

• Full-time learners – Typically complete the course in 1-2 days with intensive training.
• Beginners or less experienced drivers – May require additional practice sessions and structured learning, taking up to a few weeks.
• Part-time learners – Can complete training with flexible scheduling, ensuring all competencies are met before assessment.

The course includes both theoretical learning and practical driving assessments to ensure drivers meet industry standards before obtaining their licence.

Qualification gained:

• Licence class (HR)
• Statement of Attainment – TLILIC2016 Licence to drive a heavy rigid vehicle.
  For further specific details, visit our course page.

Your Next Steps to Earning an HR Licence

A heavy rigid licence is your ticket to a rewarding career in transport. If you’re ready to start training, RAISE Training offers expert-led courses tailored to help you succeed.

Get started today! Enrol in our HR truck licensing course at RAISE Training or contact us for more information.