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How to Get a Class 2 Driver's License (Trucks & Buses)

Estimated read time: 2 minutes

Quick Summary

  • What it is: A license for heavy vehicles (over 2,300 kg), including buses and trucks.
  • Minimum Age: 25 years old.
  • Prerequisites: You must hold a valid Class 4 license and a Defensive Driving Certificate (DDC).
  • Medical Exam: A full medical examination is required.
  • Key Test: A practical driving test at the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID).

A Class 2 license is the required qualification for professionally driving heavy goods vehicles (trucks) or public service vehicles (buses). The process is more rigorous than getting a standard car license.

Step 1: Meet the Prerequisites

Before you can even start lessons, you must meet several requirements.

  1. Hold a Class 4 License: You must have a full, valid Class 4 (light motor vehicle) driver's license.
  2. Get a Defensive Driving Certificate (DDC): You must complete a Defensive Driving course and obtain a DDC from the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ). This certificate is valid for a limited time, so ensure it's current.
  3. Medical Examination: You must undergo a full medical examination from a registered doctor to certify that you are medically fit to operate heavy vehicles.

Step 2: Driving Lessons

You must learn to drive a Class 2 vehicle at a registered driving school that offers heavy vehicle training.

  • Choose a School: Find a reputable driving school with qualified instructors and properly maintained trucks or buses.
  • Practical Training: You will receive extensive training on how to handle a large vehicle, including maneuvering, braking, and road safety specific to heavy vehicles.

Step 3: The VID Road Test

The final step is the practical examination with a VID examiner.

  1. Booking the Test: Your driving school will assist you in booking a test date at a VID depot.
  2. The Test: The test is comprehensive and will assess your ability to safely operate a heavy vehicle in various traffic conditions. It includes yard maneuvers and a thorough on-road driving test.
  3. Issuance of License: Upon passing, you will be issued a new Certificate of Competency. You take this to the TSCZ to have your license updated to include Class 2.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Expired DDC or Medical Certificate: These documents have expiry dates. Ensure they are valid when you go for your VID test.
  • Insufficient Practice: Driving a heavy vehicle is very different from driving a car. Do not rush the process; ensure you have had enough lessons to be fully confident.
  • Ignoring Vehicle Checks: Part of the test involves demonstrating basic safety checks on the vehicle. Pay attention to this during your lessons.