Before we explore the training, it’s important to understand the difference between the two licence categories:
- 1Category C (CAT C), also referred to as a Class 2 licence, allows you to drive rigid-body vehicles over 3.5 tonnes and up to 32 tonnes gross vehicle weight. These are vehicles where the cab and load area are permanently connected. Common examples include bin lorries, delivery trucks, and tippers.
- 2Category C+E (CAT C+E), also known as a Class 1 licence, enables you to drive articulated vehicles, which are made up of a cab and a separate trailer that can be attached or detached. These vehicles are typically used for long-distance haulage and heavy freight logistics.
Both licences require you to undergo practical training and testing to ensure you’re safe, competent, and confident behind the wheel. However, the complexity of training increases when moving from CAT C to CAT C+E.
Practical Training Overview
The practical training for both licence categories is broken down into two modules:
- 1Module 3A: Off-road manoeuvres
- 2Module 3B: On-road driving test
Let’s look at each module in more detail and explain how the training and test requirements differ between the two categories.
Module 3A – Off-Road Manoeuvres
What Is Module 3A?
Module 3A focuses on your ability to manoeuvre a large vehicle in a confined space. This section of training is conducted in an off-road environment, typically on a designated training yard or DVSA-approved site. The module aims to develop and assess low-speed vehicle control, spatial awareness, and your ability to execute precise movements under pressure.
The Module 3A test is a practical demonstration and must be passed before you can progress to the on-road driving test (Module 3B). While both CAT C and CAT C+E drivers complete this module, there are notable differences in the specific skills being tested.
CAT C Module 3A Requirements
For Category C, Module 3A training is focused on mastering the following manoeuvre:
- “S” Shaped Reverse into a Bay: This is a fundamental skill for any professional driver. The manoeuvre involves reversing the vehicle in an “S” shape into a marked bay between cones or barriers, simulating real-life situations such as backing into a loading dock or warehouse.
Key Skills Assessed Include:
- Vehicle control at low speeds
- Correct use of mirrors
- Safe and effective steering
- Judgement of distance and alignment
In training, you’ll practise this manoeuvre repeatedly under different conditions to build your confidence and accuracy.
CAT C+E Module 3A Requirements
For Category C+E, Module 3A includes all the elements of the CAT C test, plus an additional component:
- 1“S” Shaped Reverse into a Bay: As with CAT C, you must demonstrate control while reversing into a bay with the trailer attached.
- 2teCoupling and Uncoupling of the Trailer: This is a critical skill unique to articulated lorries. You must show that you can safely disconnect the trailer from the tractor unit and then reconnect it, following the correct procedures.
During this exercise, you will need to:
- Park the cab safely
- Apply the parking brake
- Disconnect the air lines and electrics
- Lower the landing legs
- Drive the cab forward
- Reverse the procedure during coupling
This part of the test is designed to ensure you fully understand the safety protocols and mechanical processes involved in handling articulated vehicles. Training will typically include multiple practice sessions under instructor supervision, covering common issues and best practices.
Module 3B – On-Road Practical Driving Test
What Is Module 3B?
Once you’ve passed Module 3A, you’re ready for Module 3B, the on-road driving test. This module is the ultimate assessment of your ability to drive an HGV safely in live traffic conditions. The test lasts approximately 60 minutes and is conducted by a DVSA examiner.
What’s Included in Module 3B?
The format is similar for both CAT C and CAT C+E:
- 1Vehicle Safety Questions (Show Me, Tell Me) The examiner will ask you a set of questions to test your knowledge of vehicle safety. For example, you might be asked to explain how you’d check brake fluid levels or demonstrate how to check your lights are working properly.
- 2General Driving Assessment You will be asked to drive on a variety of roads — residential streets, dual carriageways, roundabouts, and possibly country roads. The examiner is looking at your ability to:
- Use mirrors correctly
- Signal and position your vehicle properly
- Anticipate hazards
- Manage speed and braking
- Demonstrate good lane discipline
- Perform a hill start and a controlled stop
CAT C Module 3B
In the CAT C test, you’re driving a rigid vehicle, which is generally easier to manoeuvre than an articulated lorry. The focus is on proving that you can operate a large, heavy vehicle safely in different traffic conditions.
CAT C+E Module 3B
For CAT C+E, the same road rules apply, but you’re dealing with a longer and more complex vehicle. Articulated lorries have a pivot point, meaning extra caution is needed when turning, especially at roundabouts or in tight spaces. The examiner will expect a higher level of spatial awareness and vehicle control due to the increased length and complexity of the vehicle.
Summary of Key Differences
| Aspect | CAT C | CAT C+E |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Rigid lorry | Articulated lorry (tractor + trailer) |
| Module 3A Requirements | “S” shaped reverse into a bay | “S” shaped reverse + coupling/uncoupling trailer |
| Vehicle Length & Complexity | Shorter, more stable | Longer, more complex with pivot point |
| Module 3B Driving | Rigid vehicle handling | Articulated vehicle handling |
| Career Applications | Local deliveries, refuse, construction | Long-haul, freight, logistics |
Final Thoughts
Training for CAT C and CAT C+E shares a common structure, but the complexity and skill requirements increase significantly with CAT C+E due to the addition of trailer handling. If you’re just starting out in HGV driving, many drivers begin with CAT C to gain experience with large vehicles before progressing to CAT C+E.
However, if your goal is to pursue long-distance or high-capacity logistics roles, you may want to go straight for CAT C+E. Either way, understanding the training process — especially the practical modules — will give you the confidence and clarity to make the right choice for your driving career.
If you’re interested in beginning your CAT C or CAT C+E training, we can help guide you through every step — from your medical and theory to hands-on practical training and tests. Click here:
