Many drivers looking to work in freight, logistics, or passenger transport aren’t sure what each heavy vehicle licence actually allows. Choosing the wrong licence can limit job access or lead to penalties for operating the wrong vehicle class.
In NSW, heavy vehicle licences are divided into HR, HC and MC categories. Each one comes with specific rules and eligibility requirements set by Transport for NSW. Whether you’re just starting or looking to move into B-double or road train work, knowing the limits of your current licence matters.
This guide explains what you can legally drive with each licence, how to upgrade, and what to expect from MC licence rules. It also includes a comparison of licence types, key industry benefits, and how to plan your training.
HR Licence (Heavy Rigid)
An HR licence in NSW allows you to drive rigid vehicles with three or more axles and a gross vehicle mass over 8 tonnes. This includes trucks towing trailers up to 9 tonnes GVM and articulated buses with more than two axles.
These vehicle types are widely used in waste services, public transport, and large-scale local deliveries. Many local councils and private operators require drivers to hold an HR licence before assigning them to commercial routes or fleet work. It’s often the first step for drivers entering the heavy vehicle industry.
To start training, you need to hold a class C licence and pass both a knowledge test and a Heavy Vehicle Competency Based Assessment. Some drivers complete the assessment using a vehicle with an automatic or synchromesh gearbox, which may place a condition B on their licence.
Drivers looking to move into semi-trailer or B-double work later on typically begin with an HR licence course before upgrading.
HC Licence (Heavy Combination)
An HC licence lets you drive prime movers towing a single semi-trailer, or rigid vehicles towing trailers over 9 tonnes GVM. These vehicles are often used for bulk freight, construction haulage, and long-distance material transport.
This licence suits drivers moving from local deliveries into state or interstate work. It’s a common requirement for roles in transport companies that operate semi-trailers, flatbeds, or large tipper combinations. You must already hold an HR licence before you can apply.
Training includes a knowledge test and a Heavy Vehicle Competency Based Assessment through an accredited provider. Like the HR class, vehicles used for assessment may affect the type of endorsement on your licence, particularly if tested in automatic or synchromesh configurations.
Completing your license classes through a registered training provider ensures you meet NSW transport standards and are properly assessed for the combination type you intend to drive.
MC Licence (Multi Combination)
An MC licence is the highest heavy vehicle licence class in NSW. It allows you to drive B-doubles, road trains, and all vehicles covered under the HR and HC categories. These vehicle combinations are widely used in mining, agriculture, and long-haul freight transport across regional and interstate routes.
To be eligible, you must hold an HR or HC licence for at least 12 months. The upgrade process involves passing a knowledge test, an eyesight check, and a medical assessment in line with Austroads commercial standards. You must also complete a Heavy Vehicle Competency Based Assessment through a registered training organisation.
If you currently hold an HR licence, you’ll need to complete an HC-level assessment before beginning MC licence training. Some drivers may also have a condition B endorsement depending on the type of gearbox used during testing. This can be removed by completing an additional assessment in a crash gearbox vehicle.
Staying within your licence class is essential. Driving an MC vehicle without proper certification can lead to penalties and licence suspension. For full licence rules and conditions, refer to the MC licence rules provided by Service NSW.
Licence Comparison Table
Understanding the difference between licence classes helps avoid confusion when choosing the right path. Each level covers specific vehicle types and trailer limits. The table below summarises the key differences across HR, HC and MC licences in NSW.
| Licence Class | Vehicles Allowed |
| HR | Rigid trucks and buses with 3 or more axles, towing trailers up to 9 tonnes GVM |
| HC | Prime movers with a single semi-trailer or rigid trucks towing trailers over 9 tonnes GVM |
| MC | B-doubles, road trains, and all vehicles covered under HR and HC |
This progression structure allows drivers to gradually increase their skills and move into more specialised vehicle operations. Choosing the correct licence ensures you’re legally compliant and prepared for the demands of larger combinations.
For more information on training options across these classes, contact a registered training provider offering both assessment and on-road preparation.
Benefits of Holding Multiple Licence Classes
Holding more than one heavy vehicle licence class in NSW can provide long-term career flexibility. Many transport companies operate a range of vehicle types, and having multiple licences allows you to meet different job requirements as demand shifts.
This flexibility is especially useful for drivers working across logistics, freight, construction, or regional delivery contracts. Instead of being restricted to a single vehicle class, you can take on roles involving HR, HC, or MC vehicle types as needed.
It also improves job mobility between industries. For example, a driver with both HC and MC licences can work in agricultural haulage one week and interstate freight the next, depending on employer needs. Some contracts or clients specifically require drivers to operate different trailers or prime mover setups, and holding the right combination of licences makes you a more competitive candidate.
Training across different licence types also improves skill development, from vehicle handling and road awareness to load restraint and route planning. These skills can help reduce on-road incidents and support compliance with NSW transport safety laws.
Career Impact and Pay Conditions
Upgrading from HR to HC or MC can improve access to higher-paying jobs in the transport sector. Employers often offer better rates and conditions to drivers qualified to handle more complex vehicle combinations, especially for long-haul or regional freight routes.
MC licence holders are in high demand for road train and B-double operations. These roles often involve longer distances, higher freight values, or stricter delivery timelines. Because of the responsibility and skill required, pay rates are generally higher than standard rigid or single-trailer work.
In addition to better pay, multi-licence drivers are also considered for more secure or long-term contracts. Transport companies may prioritise candidates who can operate multiple vehicle types, especially during seasonal peaks or when shifting between regional and metro operations.
Pay and conditions can also vary by location, freight type, and company size. However, drivers holding both HC and MC licences are more likely to be offered overtime, bonuses, and improved scheduling flexibility across a wider range of work environments.
Where to Start Licence Training in NSW
If you’re planning to upgrade your heavy vehicle licence in NSW, it’s important to choose a training provider that meets state transport requirements and supports every stage of the process.
CSTT offers training for HR, HC and MC licence classes, with qualified trainers and assessment vehicles that meet the standards set by Transport for NSW. Our team guides you through theory preparation, medical and eligibility checks, and the final HVCBA assessment.
Whether you’re starting with an HR licence or preparing for an MC upgrade, you can enquire now to get more information about available course dates and eligibility.