Thinking of hitting the road, earning serious cash and enjoying a career with massive upsides? With the right path, you can go from zero experience to driving road trains sooner than you think. 

Here’s your full roadmap to becoming a truck driver in Perth – and we’ve got your back every step of the way. This is your career launchpad. Let’s roll.

Why Truck Driving is a Great Career in Perth

Truck driving isn’t your average career. It’s one of the most in-demand, high-paying roles in Australia. With an extremely high earning potential of up to $150+ per year and rock-solid job security in industries such as freight, construction, and mining, it’s no surprise that WA can’t get enough licensed, qualified drivers.

But it’s not just about the money. Truck driving gives you freedom, flexibility, and the chance to build a career that suits your lifestyle.

Whether you want consistent local work or prefer life on the open road, there’s a pathway for you. You can start small and scale fast, moving from basic truck licences to driving road trains or even running your own transport business.

Now you know why it’s a smart move, let’s break down exactly how to get there.

Your Step-by-Step Roadmap to Becoming a Truck Driver in Perth

The first step is choosing a trusted training provider to secure your truck license. You’ll want a solid provider that offers one-on-one attention, high pass rates, and tailored support. For example, Perth Transport Training specialises in beginner‑friendly courses for: 

Book in your course, clear your medical/eyesight check, and get ready to hit the road!

Step 1: The HR Licence

Start with the truck licence course that gets you on the road quickly: the Heavy Rigid (HR) licence. This covers heavy rigid vehicles (3+ axles) like tippers, buses, large trucks, maybe towing up to 9t trailers.

It’s best to start here because it’s the most accessible heavy vehicle class, which can lead to opportunities in construction, waste collection, and local transport. To be eligible, you need to meet the Department of Transport requirements (e.g., eyesight test, previous licence class).

Get the HR under your belt, and you’re driving and earning faster.

Step 2: Upgrade Your Skills with the HC Licence

Next up is the Heavy Combination (HC) licence. This moves you into semi‑trailers and heavier freight. You’ll be able to drive prime movers plus single trailers, heavier loads, and long-stretch regional runs.

Simply put, bigger machines mean bigger jobs and bigger pay. That upgrade puts you in the freight game almost full throttle.

Top tip: Choose a training provider that gives you real experience in reversing, load management, and trailer expertise.

Step 3: Go Big with the MC Licence

Got your HR, HC, and feeling ready to step it up a notch? The Multi Combination (MC) licence is your ticket to road‑trains, B‑doubles and even more high‑earning roles.

This license lets you handle large trucks towing multiple trailers, big freight long haul, and mining‑haul vehicles. This is the premium driver space – demand is high, pay is stronger, and roles are more specialised.

Get prepared with plenty of experience, top-tier training, and readiness for advanced tasks. Once you’ve got MC, you’re playing in the professional league!

Tips for Nailing Training and Assessments

Whether you’re doing HR, HC or MC, training and assessment matter big time. You’re not just passing a test, you’re starting and upscaling your career. Here are some of our top tips for nailing those assessments: 

  • Make sure to use a registered training organisation so your Practical Driving Assessment (PDA) is valid.
  • Practice with one‑on‑one sessions to build confidence, not just competence.
  • Make sure you learn reversing, load‑securement, safe vehicle control, and heavy vehicle road rules.
  • On assessment day, it’s okay to be nervous! Just stay calm, follow the instructor’s instructions, and show you’re aware of the rules. 

Choosing Your Career Path

Once you’ve got your licence, the road’s wide open!. One of the best things about becoming a truck driver is the flexibility to choose a career path that works for you. Whether you’re after stable local work, big-paying mining gigs, or the freedom to run your own business, there’s a role out there with your name on it.

Here’s a look at some of the most common career opportunities after getting your truck licence:

  • Local contractor/driver with an HR licence in construction, council or bus work.
  • Regional/interstate freight with an HC licence. It’s a longer haul, but better pay.
  • Long‑haul mining or multi‑trailer freight with MC licence. Top tier.
  • Owner‑driver: get your own rig, pick your work, build your business.

Keep Learning on the Job

Driving licence done? Whatever stage you’re at, it’s always good to keep learning and progressing on the job. Growth means staying ahead and setting yourself up for long‑term success.

  • Look for extra endorsements and skills (such as dangerous goods and heavy loads).
  • Build a reputation for reliability, safety, and professionalism.
  • Track industry demand: mining, logistics, and infrastructure always need drivers.
  • Stay updated with regulations and renewal requirements.

It’s Time to Take Action

If you’re ready to turn ambition into action, this is your moment. Start with a solid provider for your truck training in Perth, pick your course (HR, HC or MC), commit to learning and take that first step. The road’s open – and Perth Transport Training is here to help you make it happen. 

Get started! Book your truck licence course today.