Getting your Heavy Rigid (HR) licence is a smart career move for anyone looking to break into the transport industry or upgrade their driving credentials in South Australia. Whether you’re planning to drive a bus, a rigid truck, or a heavy construction vehicle, the HR licence opens the door to exciting and well-paying opportunities.
But one of the most common questions we hear at Tokhi Driving Solutions is:
“How long does it take to get an HR licence?”
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through:
- The exact process of getting an HR licence in SA
- Timeframes involved at each stage
- Key requirements and eligibility criteria
- The difference between auto, synchromesh, and Road Ranger gearboxes
- Training duration based on experience
- Links to helpful government and industry websites
- How Tokhi Driving Solutions makes the process easier and faster
Let’s dive in.
What is a Heavy Rigid (HR) Licence?
A Heavy Rigid (HR) licence is a type of commercial vehicle driver’s licence that allows you to operate heavy vehicles with:
- A Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) greater than 8 tonnes, and
- Three or more axles
- A trailer up to 9 tonnes GVM
This licence is commonly required for:
- Freight and logistics trucks
- Concrete agitators
- Tourist and public transport buses
- Mining and construction vehicles
How Long Does It Take to Get an HR Licence?
Average Timeframe: 1 to 3 Days of Training
With Tokhi Driving Solutions, most students can complete their HR licence training and assessment in as little as 1 to 3 days, depending on:
- Your prior driving experience
- The type of gearbox (automatic or manual)
- Availability for training and testing
- Confidence behind the wheel
Here’s a general breakdown of the timeline:
| Stage | Estimated Time |
| Check eligibility & complete medical | 1 day |
| Book and pass the HR knowledge test | 1 day |
| Practical training with an instructor | 1–2 days |
| Final assessment with accredited assessor | Same day or within a week |
Some learners, especially those new to large vehicles, may need additional practice sessions for confidence.
Eligibility Criteria for an HR Licence in SA
To apply for an HR licence in South Australia, you must meet the following criteria as outlined by SA.GOV.AU:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have held a Class C (car) licence for at least 2 years
- Must pass a medical fitness test (required for all heavy vehicle classes)
- Must pass a theory test based on the Heavy Vehicle Driver’s Handbook
- Must complete a practical driving test or competency-based assessment
Types of HR Licence Training Offered
When applying for an HR licence, you’ll need to choose the type of gearbox training:
1. HR – Automatic
- Easiest to learn
- Suitable for most courier and bus jobs
- Quicker training and assessment
2. HR – Synchromesh Manual
- Slightly more complex but still manageable
- Gives more flexibility with job roles
3. HR – Road Ranger (Crashbox)
- Requires double-clutch technique
- Needed for specific heavy freight jobs
- Takes longer to learn (often 2–3 extra hours of practice)
Note: Your licence will be marked with a restriction if you train in automatic (Condition B). No restriction if you pass using a Road Ranger gearbox.
What Does the HR Licence Course Include?
At Tokhi Driving Solutions, our HR licence course includes both theory and practical components designed to ensure you’re test-ready and job-ready.
Theory & Knowledge
- Road rules for heavy vehicles
- Fatigue management
- Load restraint and securement
- Pre-departure checks
- Defensive driving
Practical Training
- Safe vehicle operation
- Turning, reversing, hill starts
- Smooth gear changes (if manual)
- Hazard identification
- On-road training in real traffic conditions
Final Assessment
You’ll undergo either:
- A Competency-Based Training & Assessment (CBT&A) route, or
- A Vehicle On-Road Test (VORT) with an authorised examiner
Medical Requirements for HR Licence
Before obtaining an HR licence, you’ll need to undergo a medical examination by a registered doctor, especially if you’re planning to drive commercially.
Use the form MR713 – Medical Standards for Licensing found on SA.GOV.AU
How an HR Licence Can Boost Your Career
According to JobOutlook.gov.au:
- Truck drivers in Australia are in high demand
- The average salary ranges from $65,000 to over $90,000 per year
- Opportunities exist in freight, mining, public transport, and warehousing
Getting your HR licence is your ticket to a reliable and rewarding job with job security and career progression.
Why Choose Tokhi Driving Solutions for HR Licence in Adelaide?
At Tokhi Driving Solutions, we make it easier than ever to get your HR licence with:
- Accredited Trainers – led by Arjun Tokhi, with 7+ years of experience and 1,000+ students trained
- Flexible Scheduling – same-week bookings available
- Multilingual Instruction – training in English, Hindi, and Punjabi
- Inclusive Environment – all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels welcome
- Modern Fleet of Trucks – automatic and manual options
- Affordable Packages – value for money, no hidden fees
Learn more about our course: HR Truck Licence in Adelaide
Ready to Get Your HR Licence? Let’s Hit the Road!
Getting your HR licence is quicker and more achievable than you might think. With the right support, training, and guidance, you could be on the road in just a few days – licensed and job-ready.
Tokhi Driving Solutions is Adelaide’s trusted provider for personalised, flexible, and top-quality HR licence training. Our experienced team will support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many driving hours are required for an HR licence?
There’s no fixed number of hours. Some learners may complete it in 1 day, while others may need 2–3 days depending on their comfort level.
Can I drive buses with an HR licence?
Yes, an HR licence allows you to drive most rigid buses, including public and charter buses.
How much does the HR licence training cost?
Costs vary depending on the vehicle type (auto/manual). Contact us directly for a personalised quote.
Can I upgrade from MR to HR?
Yes. If you hold a Medium Rigid (MR) licence, you can upgrade to an HR licence by completing a shorter training and assessment.
Is weekend training available?
Yes! We offer flexible sessions on weekends and after hours to suit your schedule.
