Short answer: Getting an MR licence takes approximately one day of training and assessment. HR and HC courses also run as single-day assessments at ALLTRUCK Driver Training in Horsley Park. The full process from checking eligibility to licence in hand typically takes 4 to 6 weeks once the holding period requirement is met.
One of the most common questions we get is how long the whole process actually takes. The training day itself is quick. The variables are the eligibility requirements, the DKT booking, and Service NSW processing times.
Here’s the complete breakdown for each licence class.
Up to 8 hours
8 to 10 hours
Full day
How Long Does an MR Licence Take in NSW?
The MR (Medium Rigid) licence is the first step up from a car licence for most drivers. Training and assessment at ALLTRUCK runs up to 8 hours, completed in a single day.
MR Licence at a Glance
Before you can book training, you need to:
- 1
Hold a Class C licence (non-learner) for at least 12 months
- 2
Pass the Heavy Vehicle Knowledge Test (DKT) through Service NSW
- 3
Obtain your HVCBA learner guide and logbook from Service NSW
Total time from starting the process: 1 to 2 weeks, assuming your Class C holding period is already met. If you haven’t held your Class C for 12 months yet, that waiting period is the main variable.
Once training and assessment is complete at ALLTRUCK, you submit your logbook to Service NSW to apply for the licence. Processing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks.
How Long Does an HR Licence Take in NSW?
The HR (Heavy Rigid) licence has a longer eligibility requirement than MR. Training and assessment at ALLTRUCK runs 8 to 10 hours, completed in a single day.
HR Licence at a Glance
Before you can book training, you need to:
- 1
Hold a Class C, LR, or MR licence (non-learner) for at least 24 months, or 12 months if you already hold an MR
- 2
Be at least 19 years old
- 3
Pass an eyesight test
- 4
Pass the TfNSW Rigid Knowledge Test
- 5
Obtain your HVCBA learner guide and logbook from Service NSW
Total time from starting the process: 1 to 2 weeks once eligibility is met. The 24-month holding period is the biggest variable. Holding an MR licence first cuts this to 12 months.
How Long Does an HC Licence Take in NSW?
The HC (Heavy Combination) licence is the next step up from HR. You must already hold an HR or MR licence before applying. Like MR and HR, training and assessment at ALLTRUCK runs as a full single day at Horsley Park.
HC Licence at a Glance
Before you can book training, you need to:
- 1
Hold an MR or HR licence for at least 1 year
- 2
Pass an eyesight test
- 3
Pass the HC knowledge test
- 4
Obtain your HVCBA logbook and guidebook from Service NSW
Note: P2 holders are not eligible for the HC licence. You must hold a full (open) licence. P-plate time does not count toward the HC holding period.
The Full Process: DKT to Licence in Hand
Here is the complete step-by-step timeline from starting the process to receiving your licence, for any class.
| Step | What’s Involved | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Check eligibility | Confirm you meet the minimum holding period for the class you’re applying for | 1 day |
| 2. Book and pass the DKT | Study the NSW Heavy Vehicle Driver Handbook. Book your knowledge test through Service NSW | 1 to 2 weeks |
| 3. Obtain HVCBA logbook | Collect your learner guide and logbook from Service NSW | Same day |
| 4. Training at ALLTRUCK | Single-day training and assessment at Horsley Park, Sydney | 1 day |
| 5. Submit logbook | Submit your completed HVCBA logbook to Service NSW to apply for the licence | 1 to 2 weeks processing |
| 6. Licence issued | Service NSW issues your new heavy vehicle licence | 1 to 2 weeks |
Bottom line: For applicants who already meet the holding period, the full process from booking your DKT to having the licence in hand takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks. DKT booking availability and Service NSW processing are the main variables.
Can You Do MR, HR and HC in Sequence?
Yes. The licence classes build on each other in a clear pathway. Many drivers work through all three over months or years as their career develops.
Must hold for at least 12 months before MR, or 24 months before HR directly.
Holding MR for 12 months qualifies you for HR faster. Skipping MR means waiting the full 24 months from Class C. Getting MR first also means you can start working sooner while you wait.
Complete single-day training and assessment at ALLTRUCK. Hold for 12 months before upgrading to HC. The most in-demand heavy vehicle licence in Australia.
Unlocks prime movers, semi-trailers, long-haul, and mining roles. Higher earning potential. Can upgrade to MC from here.
The highest heavy vehicle licence class. B-doubles, road trains, and multi-combination vehicles.
What affects how long the sequence takes? The holding periods between licences are the main factor. From Class C to HC via the MR and HR route takes a minimum of 3.5 years of holding periods, plus training days and processing time at each step.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q
Can you get a truck licence in one day?
Yes. The practical training and assessment for MR, HR, and HC at ALLTRUCK is completed in a single day. The full process takes longer due to the DKT, eligibility requirements, and Service NSW processing time.
-
Q
What is the DKT for heavy vehicles?
The DKT (Driver Knowledge Test) for heavy vehicles is a computer-based test completed at a Service NSW centre before training. It tests knowledge of heavy vehicle road rules. Study using the NSW Heavy Vehicle Driver Handbook and the free practice tests on the Service NSW website.
-
Q
Does training ever take more than one day?
At ALLTRUCK, training and assessment is structured to be completed in a single day. If additional time is needed to reach competency, extra hours are available at a discounted rate for both MR and HR courses.
-
Q
What is an HVCBA logbook?
The HVCBA (Heavy Vehicle Competency Based Assessment) logbook records your training progress. You collect it from Service NSW before your training day and submit it after completing your assessment to apply for the licence.
-
Q
Is there government funding available for truck licence training?
Yes. There are government funding options for eligible applicants in NSW. ALLTRUCK is a recognised provider under Transport for NSW. Contact us before enrolling to check if you qualify.
-
Q
Where does ALLTRUCK run training?
All training and assessment takes place at the ALLTRUCK facility at 2C Burley Road, Horsley Park NSW 2175, near Eastern Creek and Wetherill Park in Western Sydney.
Ready to Book Your Truck Licence Course?
ALLTRUCK DRIVER TRAINING has been running TfNSW-approved heavy vehicle courses in Sydney for over 30 years. One call is all it takes to get started.
Established Over 30 Years
MR, HR and HC Courses
Single-Day Assessment
Or call us: 1300 521 289 | info@adt.nsw.edu.au