Choosing the proper truck licence is a key step toward building a stable and rewarding career in transport, logistics or construction. Brisbane has a strong demand for skilled drivers, and each licence class opens doors to different vehicle types and job roles.
This guide breaks down the main licence categories so you can pick the one that suits your goals.
LR Licence – Light Rigid
An LR Licence is ideal if you want to start with smaller heavy vehicles.
You can drive:
- Small buses (up to 12 seats)
- Light trucks above 4.5 tonnes and up to 8 tonnes
Great for roles in:
- Community transport
- School or aged-care transport
- Local deliveries
This licence is a common first step for beginners seeking structured heavy-vehicle training.
MR Licence – Medium Rigid
The MR Licence is well-suited to those wanting to drive larger single-axle trucks.
You can drive:
- Vehicles over 8 tonnes with two axles
- Buses
- Delivery and council trucks
Typical job paths include:
- Waste collection
- Removal trucks
- Construction deliveries
The MR option is a steady progression for learners who want more job flexibility without yet handling large vehicles.
HR Licence – Heavy Rigid
The HR Licence is one of the most popular in Brisbane.
You can drive:
- Heavy trucks with three or more axles
- Large buses
- Concrete trucks
- Heavy rigid vehicles with trailers under 9 tonnes
Common jobs include:
- Bus driving
- Tippers
- Tankers
- Construction supply trucks
Many transport companies list HR licences as the minimum requirement for long-term roles.
HC Licence – Heavy Combination
The HC Licence takes you into the world of combination vehicles.
You can drive:
- Prime movers with one trailer
- Semi-trailers
- Large combination units
This licence suits people aiming for:
- Long-distance freight
- Warehouse-to-warehouse transport
- Bulk haulage
It’s a strong choice if you want higher earning potential and steady work.
MC Licence – Multi Combination
The MC Licence is the highest level of heavy vehicle training.
You can drive:
- B-doubles
- Road trains
- Multi-trailer combinations
Career paths include:
- Long-haul interstate driving
- Large-scale freight transport
- Mining and regional logistics
This licence requires experience and confidence with large vehicles, but it offers some of the best pay rates in the transport industry.
Which Licence Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple guide based on your career aim:
| Start small or drive community vehicles | LR |
| Get into general transport or council jobs | MR |
| Work with buses, tippers or heavy rigid trucks | HR |
| Aim for freight or semi-trailer work | HC |
| Want high-paying road train or interstate jobs | MC |
Your choice depends on your experience, confidence level, and long-term goals.
How to Get Started
Global Driver Training provides step-by-step guidance for each licence class. Training covers:
- Vehicle handling
- Safety skills
- Reversing and manoeuvring
- Road practice
- Test preparation
Our instructors support you throughout the learning process, making it easier to reach your target licence and start applying for jobs.