Licence Classes Taught in Melbourne
- Light Rigid (LR): trucks over 4.5 tonnes GVM and up to 8 tonnes, including small buses.
- Medium Rigid (MR): rigid trucks with two axles and a GVM over 8 tonnes.
- Heavy Rigid (HR): rigid trucks with three or more axles, such as tippers and concrete agitators.
- Heavy Combination (HC): prime movers towing a semi-trailer.
- Multi Combination (MC): B-doubles and road trains.
Established Schools and Training Providers
Costs and Funding
- LR or MR: roughly $700 to $1,300 for a one or two day course including assessment.
- HR: roughly $1,200 to $1,800.
- HC: roughly $1,800 to $2,800.
- MC: roughly $2,500 to $3,500.
What to Check Before Enrolling
- RTO registration and the specific units covered.
- Trainer-to-student ratio on the road (one trainer to one or two students is common).
- Whether the assessment is included or charged separately.
- Vehicle type, including manual or automatic transmission, as an automatic-only test restricts your licence.
- Job placement links with freight companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a truck licence in Melbourne?
An LR or MR course usually takes one to two days. HR often takes two to three days, and HC or MC takes three to five days depending on your experience. These timeframes assume you already hold the prerequisite licence class for the minimum period.
Do I need a car licence before starting?
Yes. You must hold a full (not probationary) Victorian car licence or recognised interstate or overseas equivalent. You also need to meet medical standards, and some schools ask for a driver history check.
Can I go straight to a semi-trailer licence?
Not usually. Victoria generally requires you to hold an MR licence for at least 12 months before you can obtain an HC. Confirm current rules with VicRoads, as exceptions and competency-based pathways can apply.
