Licensing
We need to investigate what license we need if we drive a bus as an RV. Are there different licences for different sized busses? How do we go about getting them? Will we need lessons? How much will it cost? What is the time delay on booking?
OK, I checked out the VicRoads website, and it all depends on what size vehicle we want to drive. Assuming it is a bus, then it is likely that we will need at least a Medium Rigid (MR) endorsed license (over 8 tonnes gvm (total weight when loaded), and one rear axle). Unless it isn’t too heavy - between 4.5 tonnes and 8 tonnes gvm means a Light Rigid (LR). But if we want to tow a trailer, then we need at least a Medium Rigid. If we want to drive a bus with two rear axles, then we will need a Heavy Rigid (HR).
Then we need to decide whether to get a license for a synchromesh or non-synchromesh gearbox. The synchromesh is easier to drive, but you can only drive a synchromesh on that license, whereas if you get a non-synchromesh license, then you can drive both types (a bit like the manual / automatic restrictions on car licenses).
To get the license, we will need to study the book and pass a written exam, and then do the driving test. For that, we need to book into what is generally a 3-day course at a local training centre, then they arrange for the test at the end. Usually costs around$700 or $800 dollars.
I couldn’t find any nearby that use a bus for their vehicle - the closest I could find was a tip truck!
So now the question is, which to get?
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