Taking C1 Driving Lessons: Everything You Need to Know
A C1 licence is what you need to get behind the wheel of some of the largest road vehicles. This includes almost every vehicle that weighs between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes. Think medium-sized lorries, large vans, motorhomes, and even the likes of ambulances or horseboxes.
Those who got their original driving licence before January 1997 may already be qualified to drive C1 vehicles, but there might be limits on how much they can tow. But for those who passed their test after this time, you’ll need to pass a separate C1 driving test.
Many people choose to take the C1 driving test to advance their career, but there are just as many reasons you could be driving these vehicles domestically. No matter the reason you’re taking your test, you’ll need the best C1 driving lessons to ensure you pass.
A Day in the Life of a C1 Learner
When you arrive for your C1 driving lessons, you won’t just be jumping straight into the cab. There are a few things you’ll need first before you can get on the road:
- Firstly, you’ll need a manual car licence. Otherwise known as a Cat B licence, this is your standard UK driving licence.
- After that, you’ll need to pass a C1 theory test. You must pass this before you can head out on the road, even with an instructor next to you.
- Finally, you’ll need to complete a medical check. For this, you’ll need to bring a D4 form along with you to your local GP.
On the day of your driving lessons your instructor is bound to check for these things first. So have them ready beforehand and you’ll be set to get behind the wheel.
So, what can you expect from the practical part of your C1 licence training?
Once in the cab, you may be briefed on the dials and display. C1 vehicles may have unique features you haven’t encountered in a car; mounted trailers, back doors, and lifts. You’ll have to make sure these are safe before you leave.
Before going on the road, you may well try some manoeuvres. Reversing and parking are important skills you will have to relearn with a larger vehicle. Then, you can tackle the roads. Familiar roads and obstacles will feel different in a taller, wider vehicle. But your one-to-one instruction will keep you well-advised at every step.
All of this practise will contribute to making you a safe and confident driver when in control of a large vehicle.
C1 Driving Lessons at NxtGen Academy
Now, you hopefully know a little more about getting your C1 licence. But you may be wondering, “where can I find the best C1 driver training near me?”.
If you live in the Norfolk or Suffolk area and are ready to take your C1 driving lessons, talk to the team at NxtGen Driving Academy today. We’re always happy to answer your questions about getting road ready, as well as book you in for lessons or courses.
