What is a HIAB driver?

Given just how many duties are involved in lorry driving and how many intricate roles drivers must undertake during their day-to-day, it is understandable that many of these roles require their own unique qualifications. 

HIAB drivers are one such example of those who must earn their licences that go beyond standard HGV licences, to operate the machinery and vehicles in their care.

But what exactly is a HIAB driver? How do they differ from other lorry drivers and what does one need to do to become a HIAB driver?

At HGV Training Network, we’re home to a plethora of driving courses – including HGV training, CPC training, HIAB training courses and more – so you can gain in-depth knowledge and experience before starting your new career as a fully qualified driver. Whatever you want to drive!

Speak to a HGVTN staff member today to learn more about HIAB courses and HIAB training costs, or keep reading to gain a deeper understanding of HIAB drivers.

Did You Know – HGV Training Network is home to a fantastic finance plan that allows new students to train now, pay later? You won’t find that with all training providers. Click here to read all about it!

HIAB driver meaning

A HIAB driver is someone qualified and authorised to load, offload, transport and operate lorry-mounted cranes.

A common piece of workplace transport equipment, you’ve probably seen a lorry-mounted crane when you’ve been out on the road. They look similar to other HGVs, with the addition of a retractable crane on the back.

HIAB stands for ‘Hydrauliska Industri AB’ – a company that innovated the use of such cranes on lorries, founded in 1944. Since this time, the name of the company has become synonymous with this type of crane-equipped lorry, to the point it has become an umbrella term to cover all such lorries.

As lorry drivers up and down the country are sometimes expected to haul overly large or heavy loads and items that are difficult to manoeuvre with other equipment, these cranes can be infinitely useful, allowing the user to move the relevant goods at will, with ease.

To become a HIAB driver, you first need to earn the correct HIAB licence. You can do this by studying with approved training companies, like HGV Training Network.

Our staff is comprised of fully qualified drivers with vast experience in all aspects of the haulage and transportation industries – including HIAB driving. With our team, you’ll undergo practical training and theory revision.

We can also assist you in earning all associated qualifications you may need to drive professionally, including your CPC (certificate of professional competence) along with arranging your medical examination if this is required.

In short, we offer a comprehensive driver-learning environment that’s undoubtedly your fastest and most efficient way to drive the vehicles you want to drive to make a living.

Click here to learn more about HGVTN, or drop us a message to speak to a member of our team.

What is a class 2 HIAB driver?

Technically, all HIAB drivers are class 2 HIAB drivers.

To legally drive a HIAB, you need to have earned your class 2 licence, also known as the Cat C licence.

This licence is considered the “entry-level” HGV licence and is the most common licence held by HGV drivers across the country. Many of the students who learn with HGVTN do so to earn their Cat C licence before moving on to other qualifications if they wish.

But don’t worry, at HGV Training Network, we offer training in all of the above and more, making us your one-stop shop for all your lorry training needs. 

How long does a HIAB licence last for?

Once you’ve successfully passed all your HIAB exams and have received your HIAB licence, that licence is valid for five years, meaning you won’t need to undergo any more training or refresher courses during this time.

After five years have passed, you’ll need to take refresher training and examinations to retain your licence. 

If you’re already a HIAB driver and you’re coming up on your five-year mark, HGV Training Network is here to help with your refresher training and examinations, so you can keep hold of your HIAB licence and not lose any work.

Start your HIAB training course with HGV Training Network 

If you’re ready to take the next step in your driving career and want to master operating crane-assisted lorries, HGV Training Network is here to help.

With over 50 training centres across the UK, you’ll never have to travel too far to learn the skills and knowledge you need to become a fully qualified HIAB driver.

We offer HGV training, HIAB training, lorry loader training, ADR training and more – whatever vehicles you wish to drive, we can help you get there.

Speak to HGVTN today to find out more, and if you’re asking yourself ‘How much does HIAB training cost?’ be sure to enquire about our train now, pay later finance packages that allow you to spread the cost of your HIAB course, making it far more affordable.