Can You Drive a 7.5-Tonne Lorry on a Car Licence? (Complete Guide)

Understanding which vehicle you can legally drive with a standard category B car licence can be challenging, especially when it comes to a heavier truck (also known as a lorry in the UK and Ireland). While driving a regular car or light van is simple, the rules around operating a larger vehicle, like a 7.5-tonne truck, often lead to confusion across different European countries.

This guide will clarify whether a 7.5-tonne truck can be driven with a car licence in Europe. We’ll also explore which other trucks fall under category B, explain how to obtain a C1 licence for heavier vehicles, and highlight potential penalties for driving without the correct licence.

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Can You Drive a 7.5-Tonne Lorry on a Car Licence?

No, you cannot drive a 7.5-tonne truck on a standard category B car licence in Europe.

To legally drive a 7.5-tonne truck in the EU, you’ll need a category C1 licence, which covers vehicles weighing between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes. This licence is typically required for light commercial trucks and larger vans used for transporting goods.

For context, in the United Kingdom, drivers who passed their driving test before 1997 may have grandfather rights, allowing them to drive a 7.5-tonne truck on a standard category B licence. However, those who obtained their licence after 1997 must apply for a C1 licence to drive vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.

In the United States, the rules are more lenient. Drivers can operate vehicles weighing up to 11,793 kg (26,000 lbs) on a standard car licence (non-CDL) without needing a commercial driving licence.

What Vehicles Can You Drive on a Category B Licence?

A standard category B car licence in Europe allows you to drive more than just passenger cars, but there are strict limits when it comes to trucks and heavier vehicles. Understanding exactly what types and sizes of trucks you can legally drive with a car licence helps avoid legal issues and ensures you stay compliant with EU regulations.

With a category B licence, you can drive:

• Passenger cars and light trucks up to 3.5 tonnes.
• A trailer up to 750 kg attached to the vehicle.
• In some countries, with an additional code 96, you can tow a heavier trailer, bringing the total combined weight up to 4.25 tonnes.

But what if you want to drive something larger? 

Vehicles like recovery trucks or 5-tonne trucks often exceed the limits of a standard car licence. If you plan to drive trucks weighing between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes—such as a 4.5-tonne cargo truck or a 5-tonne flatbed—you’ll need to upgrade to a C1 licence. This licence is specifically designed for light commercial vehicles that fall between the car licence and full truck licence categories.

The biggest truck you can legally drive on a car licence in the EU is one that weighs up to 3.5 tonnes. Anything heavier—whether it's a small delivery truck, a recovery truck, or a 5-tonne box truck—will require additional licensing.

To make things even clearer, here’s a breakdown of the licence categories and what each allows you to drive:

Licence Categories and What They Allow You to Drive

How to Get a 7.5-tonne Lorry Licence

If you plan to drive a 7.5-tonne truck in Europe, you’ll need to obtain a category C1 licence. This licence allows you to legally operate vehicles weighing between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to help you understand how to get your C1 licence.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a C1 Licence in Europe

1. Check Eligibility Requirements

   The minimum age to apply for a C1 licence is usually 18 years. In some EU countries, you may need to have held a category B licence for at least 12 months before applying for a C1.

2. Complete a Medical Examination

   A medical exam is required to ensure you’re fit to drive heavier vehicles. The test typically includes vision and general health checks.

3. Pass the Theory Test

   The theory test focuses on road safety, regulations specific to larger vehicles, and hazard perception. In many countries, the test is divided into multiple sections, including multiple-choice questions and case studies.

4. Take Practical Driving Lessons

   While not always mandatory, it’s highly recommended to take lessons with a certified instructor who specializes in C1 training. This helps you get accustomed to handling larger vehicles.

5. Pass the Practical Driving Test

   The practical exam involves driving a 7.5-tonne truck on different types of roads while demonstrating safe driving practices. You’ll be assessed on vehicle control, reversing, and adherence to traffic rules.

6. Obtain a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) (If Required)

   If you plan to use the 7.5-tonne truck for commercial purposes, you’ll also need a CPC. The CPC involves additional tests and periodic training but isn’t required for private use.

Penalties and Legal Consequences

Driving a truck up to 7.5 tons without the proper license is not just risky—it can also lead to serious legal trouble across Europe. Every country has its own rules and penalties, but the message is clear: make sure you’re qualified before getting behind the wheel. Here are a few examples:

• Germany: Operating a vehicle without the right license is considered a criminal offense. Violators can face fines or even imprisonment for up to one year. In some cases, authorities may confiscate the vehicle, and if a vehicle owner allows someone without proper licensing to drive, they too can be held liable.
• France: Driving without the appropriate license can lead to a fine of up to €15,000 and even up to one year in prison. Additionally, drivers may face a temporary driving ban.
• Spain: A points-based system is enforced. Driving without the correct license can result in hefty fines and the loss of points, leading to disqualification. Regaining your license may require passing tests or completing special training.
• Italy: Italy enforces some of the strictest penalties. Fines range from €5,000 to €15,000, and vehicles may be impounded for up to three months if driven without the proper license.

Missing CPC or Tachograph Violations

If you’re driving a 7.5-tonne truck for commercial purposes in the EU, having a valid Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and a properly functioning tachograph is mandatory. Failing to comply can lead to serious fines and legal consequences.

For example, in Germany, driving without a valid CPC can result in fines up to €5,000, while employers allowing uncertified drivers can also face penalties.

It's not just the absence of a tachograph that leads to fines — incorrect use or tampering with the device can result in hefty penalties, licence suspensions, or even imprisonment in severe cases.

Key Takeaways

To sum up everything covered in this guide, here are the key recommendations to keep in mind when it comes to driving a 7.5-tonne truck in Europe:

• ? You can’t drive a 7.5-tonne truck with a standard category B licence.
• ✅ Get a C1 licence if you plan to drive trucks weighing between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes.
• ⚖️ Never drive without the correct licence — fines and penalties apply across the EU.
• ? Remember CPC certification and tachograph if you’re driving commercially.
• ? Always check local laws in the countries where you plan to drive — regulations may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions