If I had opted for a van with a maximum authorised mass or MAM of 3,500 kg, I could drive with my B licence, updating it before setting off ....
Zigzag has a MAM of 4,100 kg, so I need a C1 driving licence.
A C1 driving licence is required for drivers of motor vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg designed and built to carry a maximum of 8 passengers in addition to the driver.
It is also possible to tow an additional trailer with a maximum MAM of 750 kg.
I've got to get back to work and obtain it before I can set off.
Theoretical test
It consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and to prepare for it, I had the choice between theoretical training at an approved driving school or free training.
Accredited school Free training
Conditions of access Driving licence B Driving licence B
Theiretical courses minimum 6 hours --
Age min. 17 y 9 months 17 y 9 months
Validity 3 y 3
CONGRATULATIONS I have pass my theory test.
I can start the second part.
Medical examination
Group 2 drivers - i.e. C1, C, C1+E, C+E, D1, D, D1+E - must have passed a medical examination, whether they are in a learner's permit, undergoing a test or already hold a driving licence. The test takes place in 2 stages:
an eye examination by an ophthalmologist of your choice;
a medical examination by an approved doctor from a State medical centre or an occupational medical centre.
If you meet the required medical standards, a medical certificate will be issued by the competent body. The maximum validity of the examination is 5 years; this period cannot be extended but may be shortened for medical reasons.
As you may have read in one of my previous blogs, being diabetic, the validity of my check-up is until 11.04.2027. I will have to plan a return to Belgium to receive a new certificate and extend the duration of my C1 driving licence.
Two stages are validated ... I can prepare for the practical tests.
Practical test
Prerequisites 18 y minimum
Driving licence B or C1
Successful completion of a valid theory test
Valid medical examination
1st test 4 manoeuvres on private land
2nd tes 45-minute route on public roads
Apprenticeship programme Accredited school Free training
without a temporary permit with a temporary permit
Model 3
8h of minimum lesson with a guide
direct access to the exam Supported internship (1 to
without internship 12 months)
driving school vehicle private vehicle
I opted for an approved driving school because it's quicker to get the licence and also because I don't know anyone with a C licence around me who could act as a guide.
Here's the baby :an IVECO
lenght 7.35 m
width 2.16 m
height 2.75 m
weight 4.5 T
MAM 5.5 T
The day of the exam
have safety gloves
safety shoes recommended
category C1 vehicle, MMA of at least 5,500 kg (but not more than 7,500 kg) and a length of at least 5.50 m
technical verification and other checks Check that: ☑ horn, ☑ lights, ☑ indicators, ☑ windscreen wipers, ☑ demisting system, ☑ parking brake, ☑ speedometer, ☑ tachograph, ☑ doors. As well as: ☑ the load, ☑ the condition of the tyres, bodywork and tarpaulin; ☑ the presence of the L sign, additional mirrors (if fitted), side and rear reflectors, rear wheel mudguards and compliant fire extinguishers, a blank disc with an approval marking (or ‘e’ number) suitable for the analogue tachograph or sufficient paper in the digital tachograph to print the ticket. Getting into the vehicle ▶ Climb in facing the vehicle and holding onto the handles. ▶ Closing my door properly Getting out of the vehicle ▶ Engage the parking brake before leaving my driving position. ▶ Put the gearbox in neutral. ▶ Specify that I check that the windows and sunroof are closed properly. ▶ Switch off the engine. ▶ Look in my left-hand rear-view mirror before opening my door to get out of the vehicle. ▶ Get out of the vehicle with my face towards the lorry, using the handles. ▶ Close the door through which I got off and activate the safety lock if the door is fitted with one. ▶ Specify that I check that the other doors and/or the tarpaulin are closed properly. ▶ Meet on the pavement. It is strongly recommended that you always drive around the vehicle facing traffic. To get back into the vehicle, I go around it from the front. Adjust ▶ Specify how to adjust the seat, in terms of height, distance from the pedals and backrest, to be able to : - Move my knees in front of the steering column (to do this, explain that I may need to adjust the height and depth of the steering wheel). - Depress the clutch pedal fully without having to stretch my leg. - Depress the accelerator pedal while keeping your heel on the ground. - Have your arms slightly bent when your hands hold the steering wheel in the 10:10 - 9:15 position. Turn the steering wheel without having to take my body off the backrest (to do this, explain that I may need to adjust the inclination of the backrest or steering column). ▶ Explain how I adjust my mirrors correctly. ▶ Explain how I carry out the correct adjustment of my headrest. ▶ Explain how I correctly fit my seatbelt.
Reversing in a straight line and backing up to the dock (max. duration 3.30 min.)
I cannot drive over the lines on the ground.
▶ I can only reverse once, if necessary, before the cab reaches the exit of the passage.
▶ In addition, I can only stop once in the passageway and continue in the same direction.
▶ I can leave the vehicle to check its position or assess how far I still have to back up
3. Reverse turn in a garage (max. duration 3.30 min.)
I can leave the vehicle to check my position or assess how far I have to go back.
▶ The number of movements is not limited.
▶ I cannot ride on the kerb.
4. Road test - Minimum 45-minute circuit
If I pass my test on private land (manoeuvres), I will be admitted to the test on public roads.
I must be able to use my tachograph correctly. If I have a digital tachograph, I will print out the ticket at the end of the test.
The examiner will guide me, clearly indicating the route I should follow in good time. He is not supposed to set any traps.
The examiner will assess my driving on the basis of my compliance with the highway code, my control of the vehicle and my behaviour in traffic.
I must take care to adapt my speed to the circumstances and respect the rules of the road.
So what do you think?
Pass or fail ?????
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