HR Licence Renewal Process in Brisbane 2025

Heavy Rigid (HR) licences are essential for professional truck and bus drivers across Queensland. But like all driver’s licences in Australia, an HR licence is not indefinite. If you’re a current HR licence holder in Brisbane, understanding the renewal process is critical to avoid lapses in your professional eligibility and legal compliance.

We will walk you through the step-by-step HR licence renewal process in Brisbane, eligibility checks, fees, and frequently asked questions. Whether you’re renewing your HR licence for the first time or you’re unsure about medical checks and timelines, this blog has you covered.

• HR licences in QLD are renewed via Transport and Main Roads Queensland (TMR).
• Renewals can be done online, in person, or by mail.
• A medical certificate may be required if you have a medical condition or are over a certain age.
• You can renew your HR licence up to 6 weeks before expiry.
• Driving with an expired licence is illegal and may attract fines or disqualification.

What Is an HR Licence?

A HR licence allows drivers to operate vehicles with:

• Three or more axles
• A Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) over 8 tonnes
• Includes buses and large rigid trucks

It’s a licence class commonly held by professional drivers in logistics, construction, public transport, and waste management industries.

When Should You Renew Your HR Licence?

The Queensland Government recommends renewing your licence at least two weeks before the expiry date to avoid any issues with your ability to legally drive.

You can renew your HR licence up to 6 weeks before the expiry.

Tip: Your licence card will show the expiry date clearly, and TMR usually sends a reminder notice via mail or email.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing an HR Licence in Brisbane

Step 1: Receive Your Renewal Notice

If you’re eligible to renew, Transport and Main Roads (TMR) will send you a renewal notice around 4 to 6 weeks before your licence expires. This notice includes:

• Your customer reference number
• Expiry date
• Renewal options (online/in-person)

If you don’t receive it, contact TMR directly or log into your Queensland Government Transport account.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Before renewing your licence, you’ll need:

• Your current HR driver licence
• The renewal notice
• A recent medical certificate (if required)
• Payment method (credit/debit card or cash for in-person renewals)

Step 3: Complete a Medical Assessment (If Required)

You’ll need to complete a medical assessment if:

• You’re 75 years or older
• You’ve notified TMR of a medical condition affecting your driving (e.g., diabetes, epilepsy, heart conditions)
• You hold a commercial licence (class HR, LR Licence, MR Licence, HC Licence, MC Training) and are subject to commercial medical standards

You must use the official Medical Certificate for Motor Vehicle Driver (form F3712), which your doctor can complete.

Step 4: Choose a Renewal Method

You can renew your HR licence in three ways:

1. Online (via TMR website)

If eligible, this is the quickest option.

• Visit https://www.qld.gov.au/transport/licensing/driver-licensing/renew
• Enter your reference number and details
• Pay using a card
• Your new card will be mailed to your address

2. In Person (at a TMR Customer Service Centre)

• Take your documents to your nearest Department of Transport and Main Roads office
• Get your photo taken (if required)
• Pay the fee

3. By Mail (only available in limited circumstances)

• Use the instructions provided in the renewal notice
• Not recommended if your expiry date is near

Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fee

As of 2025, the HR licence renewal fees in Queensland are:

• 1 year: $85.65
• 5 years: $170.75
• 10 years: $321.05

Note: You cannot apply for a 10-year renewal if you are over 75 years old or if you have a conditional licence.

Step 6: Receive Your New HR Licence Card

If renewed online or by mail, your new licence will be posted within 10 business days.

If done in person, you’ll receive a temporary licence on the spot and your official card by mail shortly after.

What Happens If My HR Licence Expires?

Driving with an expired HR licence in Queensland is illegal. If your licence has expired:

• You cannot legally operate any class of vehicle
• You may face fines or loss of demerit points
• Your insurance may be invalid if you’re involved in an accident

If expired for more than 5 years, you may have to reapply and re-sit the driving tests.

Tips to Avoid Common Renewal Mistakes

• Update your address with TMR to ensure you receive the renewal notice.
• Book your medical check early if applicable – delays in certificates can stop your renewal.
• Set a reminder on your phone for 1 month before expiry.
• Don’t wait until the last minute, especially if you’re employed as a heavy vehicle driver.

FAQs About HR Licence Renewal in Brisbane

• Can I drive while waiting for my renewed HR licence card?

Yes, if you have renewed successfully, your temporary paper licence acts as valid proof until your card arrives.

• Do I need to do another driving test to renew my HR licence?

No. If your HR licence is still current or recently expired (less than 5 years), no driving test is required.

• I lost my renewal notice. Can I still renew?

Yes. Contact TMR or use your Queensland Transport online account to renew without the notice.

• Is there a grace period after my HR licence expires?

No official “grace period” exists. The moment your licence expires, you’re not legally allowed to drive.

• Can I downgrade my HR licence if I no longer drive heavy vehicles?

Yes. You can request a downgrade at the time of renewal or later through TMR.

Final Thoughts

Staying on top of your HR licence renewal ensures uninterrupted driving eligibility and legal compliance. Whether you’re a full-time truck driver or an occasional operator, proactively renewing your HR licence in Brisbane should be a key part of your professional routine.

If you’re unsure about the process or need help with medical forms or licence upgrades, don’t hesitate to contact an accredited driving school like Truck Licence Brisbane for support and advice.