Restriction C: Your Quick Guide to Driving Class C Vehicles

If you’re studying for a Class 1 HGV licence, you’ll see the term “Restriction C” pop up a lot. It’s not a random code – it tells you exactly what size and type of vehicle you’re allowed to operate once you’re on the road. Understanding this restriction saves you from costly mistakes and keeps you legal on UK highways.

What vehicles fall under Restriction C?

Restriction C applies to any vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of more than 3.5 tonnes but not exceeding 7.5 tonnes. In plain English, that’s most rigid trucks you’d see delivering pallets, building supplies, or bulky goods. The vehicle can be a single‑deck lorry or a box van, but it cannot have a trailer attached. If you add a trailer, you move into Restriction C+E, which has a whole different set of tests.

Typical examples include a 7‑tonne articulated lorry used for local distribution, a 6‑tonne refuse collection truck, or a 5‑tonne works van. All these share the same licence restriction – you can drive them solo, but you can’t tow anything heavier than a small trailer.

Licence requirements and how to get them

To legally drive a Restriction C vehicle, you need a Category C entitlement on your HGV licence. That means you must have passed the practical driving test in a 7.5‑tonne vehicle and cleared the relevant theory sections (including the Hazard Perception Test). If you already hold a Category C+E licence, you automatically cover Restriction C as well.

Getting the Category C entitlement involves a few steps:

• Complete the HGV theory test (multiple‑choice and hazard perception).
• Take a practical test in a compliant 7.5‑tonne vehicle – the examiner will check your handling, braking, and gear changes.
• Pass the medical examination – you’ll need a ‘Group 2’ medical to confirm you’re fit for heavy vehicle work.

Once you’ve cleared these, your licence will show the “C” restriction. Keep a copy of your licence with you at all times; it’s the first thing a police officer will ask to see if you’re stopped.

Even after you’re licensed, staying up‑to‑date with the annual CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) training is a must. The CPC keeps your skills fresh and ensures you know the latest safety regulations, load‑securing methods, and fuel‑efficiency tips.

Remember, breaking a restriction can lead to heavy fines, penalty points, or even a licence suspension. That’s why many new drivers double‑check the vehicle’s MAM sticker or the V5C registration before getting behind the wheel.

In short, Restriction C lets you drive most standard trucks without a trailer, but you must hold a Category C entitlement, pass the right tests, and keep your CPC current. Follow these steps, and you’ll be cruising the roads with confidence and full compliance.