If you want to legally drive a heavy rigid truck in Victoria, you must hold a Heavy Rigid (HR) licence issued through VicRoads after completing approved training and assessment. Whether you are upgrading from a car licence, stepping up from a Light Rigid or Medium Rigid licence, or pursuing better job opportunities in transport, construction or logistics, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
In this article, we cover Victorian Heavy Rigid licence requirements, the different HR course types available, how long training takes, costs involved, how the assessment works, and how to choose the right training pathway based on your experience level. We also explain how Advanced Heavy Vehicle Driver Training Centre structures its HR licence courses to help students pass confidently and safely.
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is relevant if you are:
- Based in Victoria and looking to obtain a Heavy Rigid licence
- Currently holding a full car licence or a Light or Medium Rigid licence
- Seeking work in transport, waste management, councils, construction or logistics
- Upgrading your licence to drive larger rigid vehicles
- Looking for a Victorian training provider offering Auto, Synchro or Non-Synchro HR courses
What Is a Heavy Rigid Licence in Victoria?
A Heavy Rigid (HR) licence allows you to drive a rigid vehicle with:
- Three or more axles
- A Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) greater than 8 tonnes
Rigid vehicles are trucks where the cab and load area are permanently attached. This includes many council trucks, waste collection vehicles, concrete agitators, and large delivery trucks.
In Victoria, the HR licence sits above Light Rigid (LR) and Medium Rigid (MR), and below Heavy Combination (HC) and Multi Combination (MC) licences.
If you are currently on an MR licence, upgrading to HR expands the range of vehicles you can legally operate.
Victorian Heavy Rigid Licence Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a Heavy Rigid licence in Victoria, you must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a full Australian car licence for at least 24 months, or
- Hold a Light Rigid or Medium Rigid licence for the required upgrade period
- Meet VicRoads medical and eyesight standards
- Have sufficient English language skills to understand safety instructions and assessments
- Be physically capable of safely operating a heavy vehicle
Eligibility is assessed prior to training and again during the practical assessment.
Heavy Rigid Course Types at Advanced Heavy Vehicle Driver Training Centre
Advanced Heavy Vehicle Driver Training Centre offers three distinct HR licence course types, allowing students to choose the most suitable pathway based on experience and vehicle type.
This is an important distinction, as not all training centres offer all transmission options.
Heavy Rigid Auto Course
The Heavy Rigid Auto course is designed for drivers who will only operate automatic transmission HR vehicles.
- Duration: approximately 0.5 to 1 day
- Suitable for drivers with limited heavy vehicle experience
- Licence issued restricts driving to automatic HR vehicles only
This option is popular with council, waste management and metro delivery roles where automatic vehicles are standard.
Heavy Rigid Synchro Course
The Heavy Rigid Synchro course allows you to drive manual HR vehicles fitted with synchromesh gearboxes.
- Duration: approximately 1 full day
- Suitable for drivers with some manual driving experience
- No automatic-only restriction
This is a common choice for drivers wanting broader employability without moving into full non-synchromesh training.
Heavy Rigid Non-Synchro Course
The Heavy Rigid Non-Synchro course is the most comprehensive HR licence option.
- Duration: approximately 1.5 days
- Covers manual non-synchromesh gearboxes
- Provides the highest level of HR licence capability
This pathway is recommended for drivers planning long-term careers in transport or intending to upgrade later to a Heavy Combination licence.
Licence-Only vs Nationally Recognised Training
Advanced Heavy Vehicle Driver Training Centre offers both:
- Licence-only training, and
- Nationally recognised training, available for an additional fee
Licence-only training focuses on preparing you to pass the VicRoads Heavy Rigid assessment.
Nationally recognised training includes accredited units of competency, which may be required by certain employers, government contracts or large fleet operators.
What the HR Training Course Covers
Regardless of which course type you choose, HR licence training includes both theory and practical components.
Theory Training Includes
- Heavy vehicle road rules and responsibilities
- Load limits and vehicle dimensions
- Fatigue awareness and risk management
- Safe driving practices and defensive driving principles
Practical Training Includes
- Pre-start vehicle inspections
- Cabin setup and safe entry and exit
- Low-speed vehicle control
- Gear changing techniques relevant to your course type
- Reversing and manoeuvring
- On-road driving under assessment conditions
Training is conducted in vehicles representative of real-world HR trucks.
Heavy Rigid Licence Assessment in Victoria
To obtain your HR licence, you must successfully complete a practical driving assessment conducted by an authorised assessor.
Assessment typically includes:
- Vehicle safety checks
- Demonstration of correct driving technique
- Observation of hazard awareness and road positioning
- Gear control and braking
- Compliance with road rules
If successful, the assessor issues the appropriate paperwork allowing you to apply for your HR licence through VicRoads.
Cost of a Heavy Rigid Licence in Victoria
Costs vary depending on the course type selected.
Factors that affect price include:
- Auto vs Synchro vs Non-Synchro training
- Course duration
- Licence-only vs nationally recognised training
Advanced Heavy Vehicle Driver Training Centre lists transparent pricing for each course type on their Heavy Rigid Licence page.
For exact pricing, see:
How to Pass Your Heavy Rigid Assessment First Time
To maximise your chances of passing:
- Choose the correct course type for your experience level
- Arrive rested and focused
- Follow instructor guidance carefully
- Demonstrate safe, confident driving rather than rushing
- Ask questions during training if unsure
Many assessment failures occur due to nerves or poor preparation rather than lack of ability.
Career Opportunities with a Heavy Rigid Licence
An HR licence opens doors to roles such as:
- Council truck driver
- Waste and recycling operator
- Construction and civil transport
- Concrete agitator driver
- Logistics and freight delivery
HR licences are often a stepping stone toward HC and MC licences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an HR licence?
From 0.5 to 1.5 days of training, depending on the course type.
Can I go straight from a car licence to HR?
Yes, if you have held a full car licence for at least 24 months.
Is automatic HR licence restrictive?
Yes. An auto HR licence restricts you to automatic vehicles only.
Is nationally recognised training required?
Not always, but some employers require it.
How to Enrol at Advanced Heavy Vehicle Driver Training Centre
To enrol:
- Choose the appropriate HR course type
- Contact the training centre to confirm eligibility
- Book your training dates
- Complete training and assessment
- Apply for your licence through VicRoads
Visit the official course page here:
Heavy Rigid Licence Training in Victoria
Final Thoughts
A Heavy Rigid licence is one of the most valuable upgrades for drivers in Victoria. With flexible course options, experienced instructors and clear assessment pathways, choosing the right training centre makes the difference between confidence and frustration.
If you are ready to upgrade your licence, Advanced Heavy Vehicle Driver Training Centre offers tailored HR courses designed to help you pass safely and efficiently.