How to Get a Truck Licence in Perth: A Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

How to Get a Truck Licence in Perth: A Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

To get a truck licence in Perth, first check which licence class you need and whether you’ve held your current licence long enough. You’ll then need to complete the WA application requirements, learn to drive the truck and pass a practical driving assessment. Once your licence is updated, you can drive vehicles covered by that class.

If you’re looking for truck driving work, you might be wondering which licence to get first. HR, HC and MC aren’t the same, and the rules differ. Here’s how the process works in WA.

What’s the Difference Between HR, HC and MC?

A truck license applies to large vehicles that cannot be driven with a standard car license. The specific category is based on the type of truck and trailers being used.

  • HR (Heavy Rigid)- refers to rigid trucks with three or more axles that weigh over 8 tons.
  • HC (Heavy Combination)- this license is for vehicles such the prime mover hauling a semi-trailer.
  • MC (Multi Combination)- is for larger configurations like double B and road trains.

 

What Are the Requirements to Obtain a Truck License in Western Australia?

Firstly, determine the length of time you have held your license.

For HR- You must have held a car license for at least two years or have an LR or MR license for at least one year.

For HC- You must have held a car license for not less than three years and MR or HR license for 12 months.

For MC- You must have held a car license for a minimum of three years and must also have an HR or HC license for a year.

You must be off your provisional licence and meet eyesight and medical requirements. See the WA licence rules.

How Do You Get a Truck Licence in Perth?

  1. Choose the Licence You Need

For HR, decide between automatic, synchromesh and Road Ranger. Your gearbox assessment affects what you can drive.

  1. Find a Training School

Ask a truck driving school in Perth about dates, fees and extra lessons.

  1. Complete Your Training

Practise vehicle checks, turning, reversing and driving in traffic. Ask for help with anything you’re finding hard.

  1. Apply and Pass the Assessment

Complete WA’s application, eyesight check and required tests, then pass your practical driving assessment (PDA). MC assessments must be done through an approved registered training organisation.

  1. Have Your Licence Updated

Take your paperwork to a WA licensing centre to have the new class added.

How Much Does Truck Licence Training Cost in Perth?

Big Rig Training WA currently lists HR automatic and synchromesh courses at $1,180, HR Road Ranger at $1,490 and HC at $2,500. Ask the school for the latest MC price and any extra fees.

Some HR courses include four hours of driving and a one-hour assessment. Other courses take longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I Go Straight From a Car Licence to HR?

Yes, once you’ve held a full car licence for at least two years.

  1. Do I Need HR Before HC?

No. An MR licence held for one year can also meet that part of the requirement.

  1. Can I Get MC Without HC?

Yes, if you’ve held an HR licence for at least one year and meet the other rules.

  1. Do I Have to Pass a Driving Test?

Yes. You need to pass a practical driving assessment for the class.

  1. Can I Learn in an Automatic Truck?

Yes. Just check what gearbox restrictions may apply to your licence.

Why Choose Big Rig Training WA?

Big Rig Training WA offers one-on-one HR, HC and MC training in Wattleup, south of Perth. Ask about automatic, synchromesh and Road Ranger courses. See our HR automatic training, HC training or MC training. Call 0452 288 222 for prices and available dates.