- HC = a prime mover with a single semi-trailer, or a rigid with a trailer over 9 tonnes GTM.
- You must hold an MR or HR licence for at least 12 months before applying.
- Training is typically 3–5 days and costs around $2,200–$2,800.
- Medical assessment to the National Heavy Vehicle Driver Medical standard is required.
What an HC covers
A Heavy Combination (HC) licence lets you drive a prime mover towing a single semi-trailer, or any rigid vehicle towing a trailer with a GTM over 9 tonnes. It's the standard licence for general freight, refrigerated, tippers, fuel and most port work.
Eligibility
You must have held an MR or HR licence for a minimum of 12 months. NSW, VIC and QLD require evidence of this — keep your licence record handy when you book training.
You must pass a heavy vehicle medical assessment, which checks vision, blood pressure, hearing and any conditions affecting safe driving.
The training course
Accredited RTOs run HC courses over 3–5 days. Day 1 usually covers theory, vehicle inspection and coupling/uncoupling. Days 2–4 are practical driving — yard manoeuvres, reversing a semi, gear selection and on-road driving. The final assessment is a competency-based driving test conducted by the RTO assessor.
Costs and what to budget
Expect $2,200–$2,800 for the full course in most capital cities. State licence transaction fees ($90–$200) and the medical ($120–$180) are on top. Many fleets reimburse part or all of these costs after a probation period — always ask in your interview.
After you get the licence
Hours behind the wheel are everything. Take the first realistic offer, log the miles, and use that experience to apply for higher-paying linehaul or specialised work within 6–12 months.