When driving heavy vehicles, the driver’s responsibility is even greater. In Portugal, there is mandatory training that aims to guarantee road safety and the competence of professional drivers. In this article, we will explore what these formations are and the importance of each of them.
1. Category C and/or D Driving License:
Obtaining a driving license in categories C (for heavy goods vehicles) and/or D (for heavy passenger vehicles) is the first step for anyone who wants to drive heavy vehicles legally in Europe.
It is important to be aware of the appropriate category for the size of the vehicle, as well as the loads to be transported, in order to avoid committing crimes.
2. CAM C Training
The CAM C (Driver Aptitude Certificate) is one of the mandatory training courses for drivers of heavy goods or passengers, and must be renewed every five years, through continuous training.
This training is aimed at drivers over 21 years of age, with a category C or C+E driving license, which is mandatory training for those who have never attended CAM or who have had their CAM expired for more than 5 years.
This training is mandatory, according to Decree-Law no. 126/2009, of May 27 , for drivers of heavy goods vehicles and includes subjects such as traffic regulations, road safety, first aid, among others.
3. Continuous Training:
In addition to initial training, heavy vehicle drivers are also subject to ongoing training every five years, before the end of the CAM’s validity, which aims to update and improve their knowledge throughout their career.
4. Exemptions:
Relating to specific vehicle conditions:
There are some specific vehicle conditions that include exemption from the terms of Decree-Law no. 126/2009, of May 27 , such as:
a) whose maximum authorized speed does not exceed 45 km/h;
b) In the service or under the control of the armed forces, security forces, firefighters or civil protection;
c) Subjected to road tests for the purposes of technical improvement, repair or maintenance;
d) New or transformed that have not yet been put into circulation;
e) Used in emergency situations or for rescue missions;
f) Used in car driving classes, with a view to obtaining a driving license or certificate of aptitude for driving (CAM), as referred to in paragraph 2 of article 4;
g) With a capacity of up to 14 seats, including the driver, used for the non-commercial transport of passengers for private purposes;
h) With a gross weight of up to 7500 kg, used for the non-commercial transport of goods, for private purposes;
i) That transport materials or equipment for the exercise of the driver’s profession, as long as driving the vehicle is not their main activity.
Relating to initial qualification or continuing training
1 – The following drivers are exempt from the initial qualification requirement:
a) Holders of driving licenses of categories D and D+E and subcategories D1 and D1+E, issued until September 9, 2008;
b) Holders of driving licenses of categories C and C+E and subcategories C1 and C1+E, issued until September 9, 2009.
2 – The drivers referred to in paragraph a) of the previous paragraph must obtain continuous training and the corresponding CAM and driver qualification letter, under the following terms:
a) Until September 10, 2011, those who are no older than 30 years old on that date;
b) Until September 10, 2012, those aged between 31 and 40 on that date;
c) Until September 10, 2013, those aged between 41 and 50 on that date;
d) Until September 10, 2015, those who are over 50 years old on this date.
3 – The drivers referred to in paragraph b) of paragraph 1 must obtain continuous training and the corresponding CAM and driver qualification letter, under the following terms:
a) Until September 10, 2012, those who are no older than 30 years old on that date;
b) Until September 10, 2013, those aged between 31 and 40 on that date;
c) Until September 10, 2014, those aged between 41 and 50 on that date;
d) Until September 10, 2016, those who are over 50 years old on this date.
4 – The timetable provided for in paragraphs 2 and 3 may be subject to further development by order of the member of the government responsible for the transport sector.
Conclusion:
In short, driving heavy vehicles requires a series of mandatory training, which must be taught in serious and duly qualified institutions, which guarantee safety on the roads and the competence of drivers. From obtaining a driving license to ongoing training, each step plays a crucial role in preparing drivers to face the challenges of road transport.
Remembering that it is essential to always be up to date with current legislation in Europe, to ensure compliance with all legal obligations related to driving heavy vehicles.
FAQ: Heavy Truck Driving: What are the Mandatory Trainings?
1. What are the basic requirements for driving heavy vehicles in Europe?
To drive heavy vehicles in Europe, it is mandatory to have a category C (for goods vehicles) and/or D (for passenger vehicles) driving license, appropriate to the type of vehicle and load to be transported.
2. What is CAM C Training and who should take it?
CAM C Training (Driver Fitness Certificate) is mandatory for drivers of heavy goods vehicles. It is aimed at drivers over 21 years of age, holders of categories C or C+E, and must be renewed every five years through continuous training. This covers topics such as traffic regulations, road safety and first aid.
3. How important is continuous training for truck drivers?
In addition to initial training, heavy vehicle drivers must undergo ongoing training every five years, before the CAM expires. This training aims to update and improve drivers’ knowledge throughout their career, contributing to road safety.
4. What are the exemptions related to the training of heavy truck drivers?
There are some exemptions provided, such as for vehicles with specific characteristics, military or emergency services, and private non-commercial transport. Furthermore, drivers who obtained their driving license before certain dates are exempt from initial training, but still need to complete ongoing training within specific deadlines, in accordance with legislation.
5. Where can I find up-to-date information on mandatory training for truck drivers in Europe?
It is essential to consult the competent bodies and traffic regulatory authorities in Europe to obtain up-to-date information on mandatory training for heavy vehicle drivers. Being informed about current legislation guarantees compliance with all legal obligations related to driving heavy vehicles.