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Heavy Rigid (HR) - Auto, Synchro
VicRoads Licence only or Nationally Recognised Training qualification
Develop the skills to safely drive heavy rigid vehicles (Auto, or Synchromesh) and become eligible for your VicRoads Heavy Rigid licence, with the option to complete the nationally recognised qualification TLILIC2016 – Licence to drive a heavy rigid vehicle.
Transform your employment prospects with our Heavy Rigid (HR) VicRoads Licence program, designed for Victorian drivers ready to operate the largest non-articulated commercial vehicles, heavy trucks, concrete agitators, waste/compactor trucks and other specialised rigs, with confidence and professionalism.
Across a focused blend of theory and practical driving, you’ll develop the high-level capabilities employers expect: precise control of complex heavy-vehicle systems, proactive monitoring of traffic and road conditions, advanced hazard management, and disciplined safety practices for demanding worksites and urban routes. Our coaching emphasises real-world application so you finish work-ready, not just test-ready.
Training is delivered at our Tullamarine Training Centre and combines targeted pre-reading and a workbook with hands-on instruction in an HR vehicle. You’ll complete written and practical assessments through the official VicRoads licence testing process. On successful assessment, you’ll receive a Certificate of Competency to upgrade to your Heavy Rigid licence.
Eligibility: You must hold a current Victorian Driver Licence and bring it to training and assessment.
VicRoads approved • Heavy-vehicle specialists • Official certification
Reach the highest level of rigid vehicle operation with confidence.
Vehicle type
This licensing course is for a vehicle 8 tonnes GVM and above, with 3 or more axles and a auto / synchro gearbox.
Delivery
- Full course – 1 day (8 hours including breaks). On the day of the course, if there is only one student enrolled, the course will be cut down to 5 hours, 1-on-1
- Delivery Method – face-to-face (theory and practical)
- All course study materials will be issued at the time of booking
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Students are required to complete some pre-reading prior to arriving for the course
- Access to internet, smart phone, tablet or laptop for pre-work
- HR vehicle is supplied
- For participants completing the Nationally Recognised Training Qualification, you require a USI that can be verified to ensure release of Statement of Attainment
Course content
Theory review:
- Driving hazards and related defensive driving techniques
- Efficient driving techniques
- Engine power management and safe driving strategies
- Vehicle controls, instruments and indicators, and their use
- Vehicle handling procedures
- Pre-operational checks carried out on the vehicle and related action
- Relevant state/territory driver licensing authority road rules, regulations, permit and licence requirements.
Practical:
- Pre-start checks
- Cabin drill
- Load restraint
- Skill manoeuvres/reversing
Learning outcome
endorsement via the VicRoads partner portal. Please note that the VicRoads Issue Fee is payable directly to VicRoads via online Mastercard or VISA only. No cash payment can be accepted. If the Nationally Recognised Training Qualification is completed, participants will also receive a Statement of Attainment for TLILIC2016 (Licence to drive a Heavy Rigid vehicle)
Prerequisites and entry requirements
To obtain a Heavy Rigid licence the following criteria apply:
- Current valid Australian motor vehicle driver licence. Candidates must have held an Australian car driver licence for at least 24 months.
- Communication skills at a level to communicate with other road users
- Must meet VicRoads eligibility requirements
- Provide evidence of identity as required by VicRoads
- Applicants must be aged 18 years and over
- Pass VicRoads commercial drivers eyesight test
- Participants will also need to have the physical capacity to undertake the practical training and assessment components of the unit (for example getting in and out of a heavy vehicle, sitting in a truck for the duration of training and assessment)
- Basic English, literacy and numeracy skills at a level sufficient to read and interpret VicRoads guidelines, traffic rules, signages and workplace documentation
- For participants completing the Nationally Recognised Training Qualification, you require a USI that can be verified to ensure release of Statement of Attainment
National Recognised Training
In addition to getting a Heavy Rigid licence to operate this type of vehicle in Victoria, you may enrol in the unit TLILIC2016 – Licence to drive a heavy rigid vehicle to obtain a Statement of Attainment upon successful completion of your course.
By undertaking Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) you will need to have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) that gives you access to your online USI account that contains all your nationally recognised training records. The main benefit of the USI is that you will have easy access to your training records and results throughout your life.
Qualification pathways: This unit of competency can contribute to Certificate qualifications from the Transport and Logistics Training Package.
Vocational pathways: Obtaining this unit of competency will allow individuals to apply for a VicRoads licence to drive a heavy rigid vehicle and work as a heavy rigid driver in the transport, construction and logistics industries (but not restricted to these industries) if they wish after obtaining their licence.
Choose the course date that gets you qualified and ready for work.
Choose the course date that gets you qualified and ready for work.
What Our Students Say
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Highly recommended great staff.GOT MY HR NON SYNCHRO TODAY. PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR AND VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE (Jaspreet Singh Gill) over all the whole experience from starting to finishing the course was great.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We have answers to help you get started.
What is the Heavy Rigid (HR) licence course?
This comprehensive course prepares you to safely operate heavy rigid vehicles and qualify for your official VicRoads Heavy Rigid (HR) licence. Available in AUTO, SYNCHRO, or NON-SYNCHRO (Road Ranger) transmission options, you’ll learn advanced vehicle control, professional hazard management, and stringent safety standards through theory and hands-on practical training.
What vehicles can I drive with an HR licence?
With an HR licence, you can drive heavy rigid vehicles with a GVM of 8 tonnes and above with three or more axles. The transmission type on your licence (AUTO/SYNCHRO/NON-SYNCHRO) determines which gearbox types you’re authorised to operate.
What's the difference between auto, syncro, and non-synchro?
- AUTO: Automatic transmission heavy rigid vehicles
- SYNCHRO: Synchromesh manual transmission (easier gear changes, HI/LO splitter)
- NON-SYNCHRO (Road Ranger): Non-synchromesh manual transmission (requires advanced clutch and gear coordination, takes longer to learn)
What's the difference between HR and MR licences?
MR (Medium Rigid) covers any 2-axle rigid vehicle greater than 8 tonnes GVM. HR (Heavy Rigid) covers vehicles 8 tonnes GVM and above with three or more axles, allowing you to drive larger and heavier commercial trucks.
What will I learn?
What's the difference between nationally recognised and licence-only training?
Will my VicRoads HR licence be valid outside Victoria?
Victorian driver licences are recognised nationally for driving. If you relocate interstate, you’ll generally need to transfer your licence to the new state within their specified timeframe. If you obtained the nationally recognised training, your Statement of Attainment (TLILIC2016) remains nationally recognised for training and employment pathways.
Can I upgrade to heavier vehicle licences later?
What career opportunities does this open up?
This qualification opens opportunities in heavy truck driving, construction and waste industry operations, concrete delivery, tipper truck driving, heavy equipment transport, and other professional driving roles requiring operation of heavy rigid vehicles with three or more axles.
How long is the licence valid for?
Your VicRoads Heavy Rigid licence remains valid as long as you maintain your Victorian Driver’s Licence and meet VicRoads medical and licensing requirements. You’ll need to renew it according to your standard driver’s licence renewal cycle.
What are the entry requirements?
- 18 years or older
- Hold a valid Victorian car driver’s licence for at least 24 months
- Meet VicRoads eligibility and eyesight requirements
- Complete a Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) assessment
- Physical capacity to safely complete practical components
Do I need an MR licence first?
Who should take this course?
Do I need commercial driving experience?
Do I need to be employed to do this course?
What are the physical requirements?
Are there any medical requirements?
Do I need a USI (Unique Student Identifier)?
Only if you choose the nationally recognised training option. A USI is required to issue your Statement of Attainment (TLILIC2016) and allows you to access your accredited training records for life. It’s not required for the VicRoads licence-only option. Create or retrieve your USI at usi.gov.au.
Can you accommodate language, literacy or accessibility needs?
Yes. Contact us before enrolling so we can discuss reasonable adjustments while still meeting VicRoads licensing and safety standards.
How long does the course take?
- HR Auto: 1/2 day to 1 day (approximately 8 hours including breaks)
- HR Synchro: 1 day (approximately 8 hours including breaks)
- HR Non-Synchro (Road Ranger): Approximately 1.5 days (including breaks)
Where is the training held?
All training is conducted at our VicRoads-approved Tullamarine Training Centre. Modern facilities with free parking and easy access to major routes.
Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available at our Tullamarine Training Centre.
Do I need to bring my own vehicle?
No, a compliant HR vehicle is supplied for training and assessment.
What should I bring on the day?
Bring your current Victorian Driver’s Licence (essential – must carry it at all times during training), proof of identity for VicRoads as required, and wear enclosed suitable footwear and clothing for practical training.
When do I receive my course materials?
What does the course include?
The course includes pre-reading materials and a workbook (provided at booking), face-to-face theory and practical training at the Tullamarine Training Centre, instruction on pre-operational checks and cabin drill, load restraint techniques, skill manoeuvres and reversing practice, written and practical assessments, and the official VicRoads examination process.
What assessments are involved?
You’ll complete a theory review and written assessment, practical assessment covering pre-operational checks, cabin drill, load restraint and skill manoeuvres (including reversing), and the official VicRoads licence assessment conducted as part of the program.
What certification will I receive?
Upon successful completion, you’ll receive your official VicRoads Heavy Rigid licence (AUTO/SYNCHRO/NON-SYNCHRO) qualifying you to legally operate heavy rigid vehicles in Victoria. If you choose the nationally recognised training option, you’ll also receive a Statement of Attainment for TLILIC2016 – Licence to drive a Heavy Rigid Vehicle, recognised across Australia.
What happens if I don't pass the assessment?
We’ll provide feedback and discuss reassessment options or additional training if needed. Additional training or assessment fees may apply.
How much does it cost?
What is included in the fee?
All study materials, face-to-face training with an HR vehicle provided, instruction, assessment, and the official VicRoads examination process. If you choose the nationally recognised training option, your Statement of Attainment is also included.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact us as soon as possible by emailing info@awftc.com.au. Cancellations made more than 7 days before the course start date will receive a refund or transfer to another date, less and Administration fee. Cancellations within 7 days may incur fees. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions or contact our Customer Service team for full details.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 2–3 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date, though we’ll do our best to accommodate shorter notice bookings where places are available.
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