Heavy vehicle theory test

To get a heavy vehicle licence, you need to take the heavy vehicle theory test. This is also called the knowledge test.

This step is part of getting your driver licence.

There are 2 heavy vehicle theory tests:

• heavy vehicle rigid - for class LR, MR and HR
• heavy vehicle articulated - for class HC and MC.

For licence classes LR, MR and HR, you may need to pass a theory test at an MVR office or through an approved training provider.

For licence classes HC and MC, you must go to an approved training provider to complete your training course. This includes your theory test.

Prepare for the test

To prepare for the theory test, you must read the following:

• heavy vehicle driver's handbook
• road user's handbook
• load restraint guide.

What you'll be tested on

You will be tested on your knowledge for all of the following:

• general road rules that apply to all drivers
• specific rules that apply to heavy vehicle drivers
• vehicle dimensions that apply to heavy vehicles
• how to safely secure a load
• tyres, wheels and axle load limits for standard heavy vehicle configurations
• rules that apply to heavy vehicle drivers in other jurisdictions. Read more information about specific rules that apply to driving heavy vehicles interstate.

Check if you're ready

Before you take the test, check if you're ready by taking the online heavy vehicle practice test.

You can also practise with the:

• heavy vehicle rigid practice theory test PDF (3.1 MB)
• heavy vehicle articulated rigid practice theory test PDF (2.9 MB).

About the test

The test has 30 multiple choice questions. They're selected from a pool of more than 250 questions.

You must get at least 26 out of 30 questions correct to pass.

How to take a test at an MVR office

You can take a test at any MVR office up to one hour before the office closes.

To take a test, you should follow these steps:

Step 1. Make sure you're eligible for the relevant heavy vehicle licence.

Step 2. Provide evidence of your ID (your current NT driver licence).

Step 3. Pay the theory test fee before you can begin.

If you pass and you don't want to immediately apply for your licence, the result will remain valid for 12 months.

If you're taking the heavy vehicle licence training and test with an approved training provider, you don't need to do the heavy vehicle theory test with MVR.