LGV Vehicle Weights and Dimensions — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the maximum permitted gross vehicle weight for a two-axle rigid HGV in the UK?
- 7.5 tonnes
- 18 tonnes (Correct answer)
- 26 tonnes
- 32 tonnes
Correct answer: 18 tonnes
The maximum gross vehicle weight for a two-axle rigid HGV is 18 tonnes. A three-axle rigid can weigh up to 26 tonnes, and a four-axle rigid up to 32 tonnes, subject to axle spacing requirements.
Question 2: What is the maximum overall width permitted for most HGVs in the UK?
- 2.35 metres
- 2.55 metres (Correct answer)
- 2.75 metres
- 3.00 metres
Correct answer: 2.55 metres
The maximum overall width for most HGVs is 2.55 metres. Refrigerated vehicles may be up to 2.6 metres wide to accommodate insulation. These limits include any load overhang but exclude mirrors.
Question 3: What is the maximum overall height for vehicles in the UK?
- There is no legal maximum height (Correct answer)
- 4.0 metres
- 4.5 metres
- 5.0 metres
Correct answer: There is no legal maximum height
There is no legal maximum height for vehicles in the UK. However, many bridges have height restrictions, and drivers must know their vehicle's height to avoid bridge strikes. The recommended maximum for safe passage under most bridges is 4.95 metres (16'3").
Question 4: What is the maximum permitted length of an articulated vehicle in the UK?
- 12.0 metres
- 16.5 metres (Correct answer)
- 18.75 metres
- 25.0 metres
Correct answer: 16.5 metres
The maximum overall length for an articulated vehicle (tractor and semi-trailer) is 16.5 metres. A drawbar combination (rigid vehicle and trailer) can be up to 18.75 metres.
Question 5: What is the maximum single-axle weight for a non-drive axle on an HGV?
- 7.5 tonnes
- 10 tonnes (Correct answer)
- 10.5 tonnes
- 11.5 tonnes
Correct answer: 10 tonnes
The maximum weight on a single non-driving axle is 10 tonnes. A single driving axle can carry up to 11.5 tonnes. These limits help protect road surfaces and bridges from excessive point loading.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a plating certificate for an HGV?
- It certifies the vehicle's colour scheme
- It specifies the maximum permitted weights for the vehicle and each axle (Correct answer)
- It confirms the vehicle has passed an emissions test
- It records the vehicle's service history
Correct answer: It specifies the maximum permitted weights for the vehicle and each axle
The plating certificate (Ministry plate) specifies the design weights and maximum permitted weights for the vehicle, each axle combination, and the train weight if applicable. It is issued following the first annual test and must be carried in the vehicle.
LGV Vehicle Weights and Dimensions
What is the maximum permitted gross vehicle weight for a two-axle rigid HGV in the UK?