What is the ADR tank licence?
The ADR tank permit is a certification that authorises drivers to transport dangerous goods in tank vehicles. ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) is a set of regulations that establishes the standards and requirements for the safe transport of dangerous substances by road.
The ADR tank permit is mandatory for drivers who transport hazardous liquids or gases in tanks, such as chemicals, fuels, toxic gases, among others. To obtain this licence, drivers must complete specialised training that includes knowledge of the characteristics of dangerous goods, the necessary safety measures and emergency procedures.
The main objective of the ADR tanker licence is to ensure the safety of both the driver and the people sharing the road. By obtaining this certification, drivers demonstrate their ability to properly transport and handle dangerous goods, reducing the risks of incidents and accidents during transport.
Compliance with ADR regulations and obtaining an ADR tank permit is essential to ensure safe and responsible transport of dangerous goods in tanks, thus contributing to the protection of the environment and society in general.
Once a driver has obtained his ADR permit for the transport of dangerous goods, he has the option to obtain 3 additional extensions:
Tanker truck extension: This extension allows you to drive tank vehicles carrying dangerous liquids or gases, ensuring safe and proper handling of the goods.
Extension for explosive materials (dangerous goods type 1): With this extension, the driver is authorised to transport explosive materials, complying with the highest safety standards during transport.
Extension for radioactive materials (dangerous goods type 7): By obtaining this extension, the driver is qualified to transport radioactive materials, ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations and precautions.
These additional extensions allow the driver to specialise in the safe carriage of specific dangerous goods, demonstrating a high level of knowledge and competence in handling this type of cargo. The ADR licence together with the extensions provide increased safety and confidence in the carriage of dangerous goods, protecting both the driver and the general public.
What is the ADR tank extension and how does it benefit professional drivers in the transport of dangerous goods?
The ADR licence is essential for transporting dangerous goods, except explosive and radioactive goods, in trucks other than tankers. However, to drive a tank truck with hazardous materials, it is essential to obtain the ADR tank extension.
This extension provides job opportunities in the field of goods transport and is particularly relevant for professional drivers. However, it is important to note that the extension has an expiry date and its renewal must be done at the Provincial Traffic Headquarters before it expires. Failure to do so will require the course to be retaken.
It is important to note that the ADR tanker extension is valid throughout Europe. If a person has obtained it in a foreign country and now resides in Spain, he/she can renew it without problems in Spanish territory. Obtaining this extension is an opportunity to guarantee safety in the transport of dangerous goods and to open doors to new professional opportunities.
How to obtain an ADR tanker licence and what are the steps to follow?
Obtaining the extension to drive a tanker requires certain important prerequisites and steps to be followed:
1.Basic ADR licence: Before applying for the ADR tanker extension, it is necessary to have previously obtained the basic ADR licence.
2.Take a specific course: The first step is to take a course at a training centre authorised by the DGT. Each driver can choose the centre that best suits his needs, considering factors such as price, timetables and availability of online training. The duration of the course is usually 12 hours, but can vary depending on the centre, even up to more than 30 hours. Prices range between 250 and 400 euros, depending on the centre.
3.Course completion certificate: Once the training course has been completed, the centre will issue a certificate of completion. With this certificate, the driver can apply for a test date at the DGT, either independently or through a driving school. The examination fee is 28.87 euros.
4.In-person exam: The exam is in-person and consists of questions specific to ADR tankers. There are many online tests available for preparation.
5.Obtaining the extension: After passing the test, the DGT will issue the ADR cisternas extension, which must always accompany the driving licence. Although the issuing may take some time, the driver will receive a provisional document with a validity of 3 months for immediate use, but it is only valid in Spain. The definitive document usually arrives in less than a month.
What are the requirements for the ADR tanker course?
- Basic ADR licence: It is necessary to have previously obtained the basic ADR licence before accessing the tanker extension course.
- Valid driving licence: You must not be in possession of a driving licence for motor vehicles or mopeds in order to be able to take the course.
- Psychophysical aptitude: You must pass the psychophysical aptitude test required for driving licences such as C, C1, D and D1, thus ensuring your suitability for driving.
- Residence in Spain: The course is available to drivers who are resident in Spain.
Content of the ADR tanker course: Find out what is covered in this comprehensive training programme:
Theoretical part: The DGT establishes the following fundamental topics to be reviewed:
Tanks and tank-containers.
Running behaviour of tank vehicles and tank-containers.
Specific provisions on the transport of dangerous goods in tank-vehicles and tank-containers.
Other special provisions.
In addition, some training centres include additional topics such as documentation to provide more comprehensive training.
Practical part: At this stage, participants carry out the following actions:
Loading and unloading operations of tank vehicles, tank-containers and battery vehicles.
On-road emergency solutions to breakdowns that may cause leaks, spills or other emergency situations.
This comprehensive training programme ensures that drivers acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to transport dangerous goods in tanks in a safe and responsible manner.
If you would like more information about dangerous goods transport or any of our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.