What is a HIAB Licence?

First off, there’s no such thing as a standalone "HIAB licence" like you’d have for driving a car or truck. Instead, it refers to completing a recognised lorry loader crane training course, which qualifies you to safely operate a HIAB or similar vehicle-mounted crane.

You’ll need this alongside a valid HGV Category C or C+E licence (depending on the size of the truck) if you want to legally operate the crane and drive the vehicle on UK roads.

Why Should You Get a HIAB Licence?

Boost Your Career Prospects

Adding a HIAB qualification to your CV opens doors in industries like construction, utilities, freight, and infrastructure. Companies are always on the lookout for qualified HIAB operators, and demand is high for drivers who can both deliver and unload goods on site.

In-demand job roles include:

HIAB operator/driver roles for builders’ merchants

• Specialist lifting and transport contracts
• Work in ports, docks, and logistics hubs
• Construction and civil engineering projects
• Qualified HIAB operators often command higher pay rates compared to standard HGV drivers due to the specialist nature of the role.
• More Versatile Work Opportunities
• With a HIAB certification, you’re no longer limited to simple haulage jobs. You’ll be able to take on more varied and interesting projects, including:
• Delivering and lifting modular buildings
• Transporting plant machinery
• Handling complex logistics on busy or restricted-access sites

Many employers will also favour multi-skilled operators who can safely manage crane operations without needing an additional team on site.

How Much Does a HIAB Licence Cost?

The price of a HIAB training course can vary depending on the provider, location, and whether you are taking it as part of a larger CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence) training package.

What Training Options Are Available?

When it comes to getting your HIAB qualification, you have several pathways:

ALLMI Accredited Courses

ALLMI (Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturers and Importers) is one of the leading accrediting bodies in the UK. Their courses are widely recognised and cover everything from the basics of crane operation to advanced modules on attachments and fly jib configurations.

NPORS Lorry Loader Training

NPORS (National Plant Operators Registration Scheme) also offers highly regarded lorry loader training. It’s another solid option that is accepted by most employers across the UK.

On-the-Job and In-House Training

Some companies will provide in-house training, often supplemented with accredited courses, to get you up to speed with their specific equipment and health & safety procedures.

Should You Take the Plunge?

If you’re already an HGV driver and want to increase your earning potential or diversify your work, getting your HIAB ticket is a smart investment. It gives you more flexibility in the jobs you take on, helps you stand out in a crowded job market, and makes you more valuable to your employer.

Plus, with the growing demand for crane operators across sectors like construction, infrastructure, and specialist logistics, a HIAB licence opens the door to a rewarding career with good long-term prospects.