What is the difference between a C and CE driving licence?

In the world of transport and logistics, you often come across the terms “C driver’s license” and “CE driver’s license.” But what exactly is the difference between the two? When do you need which license, which vehicle are you allowed to drive with it, and what do the training programmes look like? In this blog, we’ll explain it to you clearly.

 

The C driver’s license, also known as the rigid truck licence

With a C driver’s license, you are allowed (just like with a CE driver’s license) to drive trucks with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3,500 kilograms. With a C driver’s license, you may attach a trailer to your truck, but it may not weigh more than 750 kilograms. Do you want to drive with a heavier trailer or a semi-trailer? Then you require a CE driver’s license.

 

Becoming a C driver? This is what you need!

Of course, a valid B driver’s license is required to start the training to become a C truck driver. In addition, you must undergo a medical examination in advance.

After your driving lessons, you will take several exams that you must pass successfully:

• A theory exam (RVM1C, traffic, technology, load and legislation)
• The C practical driver’s exam

 

Want to work as a professional driver? Then different rules apply.

To carry out professional driving work, you are (in addition to the requirements above) required to obtain Code 95.

Code 95 consists of two additional theory exams:

• V2C (vehicle knowledge, load and load securing)
• V3C (legislation, safety, health, sector and business)

In addition, you must take two tests: the practical test and the controlled site test. Once you have obtained a Code 95, it is valid for five years. Do you want to continue working as a professional driver? Then you are required to complete 35 hours of refresher training every five years.

 

The CE driver’s license is for a tractor-trailer combination or rigid truck with a trailer over 750 kg

With a CE driver’s license, you are allowed to drive a tractor-trailer combination or a rigid truck with a heavy trailer. This is the category where you encounter the well-known tautliner combinations or refrigerated trailers. Typical work for international transport or supplying distribution centers.

The CE driver’s license, therefore, gives you access to heavier work. That means more opportunities, more responsibility, and sometimes a higher salary. For your employer, having both a C and CE driver’s license makes you more flexibly deployable. This makes you a valuable colleague.

 

Becoming a CE driver? This is what you need:

To start your CE driver’s license training, you must be in possession of a valid C driver’s licence and have passed a medical examination. Do you already have a Code 95 from your C driver’s license? Then you only have to take a practical exam at the CBR and do not have to take any theory exam(s).

Do you not yet have a Code 95 and do you want to drive professionally with this new driver’s license? Then you will still need to take the two theory exams and two tests, described as above.

 

In summary: when do you need which driver’s licence?

• Are you going to drive a rigid truck or a truck without a heavy trailer? Then C is sufficient.
• Are you going to drive with a semi-trailer or a large trailer? Then you need CE.

Our vacancies always clearly state which driver’s license is required. Often, there are also growth opportunities with our clients: you start with the C driver’s license, and you progress to the CE driver’s license.

 

Your next step in transport and logistics

Do you have questions about which driver’s license fits your situation or about job opportunities in transport and logistics? Feel free to contact one of our offices, we are happy to think along with you. Do you also need housing while working in the Netherlands? Our international team can help you with suitable accommodation and guidance, so you can fully focus on building a job that truly fits you.