There are 8 classes of motor vehicle licence which relate to:

• differing sizes and carrying capacities of vehicles
• special skills and experience required to handle the different types of vehicles.

Licence conditions may apply and these will be shown on the licence. A customer can only move to the next class, see below National Heirachy of Licence Classes, if they have attained:

• the relevant age
• the necessary driving experience, and
• undertaken a practical driving test or completed an approved training course conducted by an (External Service Provider).
  

Learner licences are not required if a customer is moving to the next class of vehicle above their current class of licence. Moving from C (car) to LR (Light Rigid) or MR (Medium Rigid) does not require a Learner Licence. Exemptions for age and experience requirements may be granted by applying to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles at the Registration and Licensing Branch.

Customers seeking exemptions from the age and/or driving experience for Classes HR, HC and MC may be requested by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to undertake a training course.

A Heavy Vehicle driver licence extension does not change the status of the licence (eg whether provisional, basic, period of good behaviour) and all licence conditions and requirements remain the same.

National Hierarchy of licence classes

(For more information please read the Heavy Vehicle Driver Licensing Information and Guidelines).

Note: Motor cycle (R) is a class of licence but not part of the licence hierarchy shown in the diagram.

Note:
GVM is the weight of a single vehicle
GCM is the combined weight of a vehicle and trailer