Minibus Driving Licences Explained

Understanding the requirements for driving a minibus in the UK can be confusing, especially when it comes to the different types of licences and permits available. In this guide, we will explain the various categories of minibus licences, including D1 entitlement, and outline who can drive a minibus with or without a specific licence.

Driving a Minibus on a Standard Car Licence

If you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997, you may automatically have D1 entitlement on your licence, indicated by the code D1 (101). This allows you to drive minibuses with up to 16 passengers, but with certain restrictions:

• You cannot drive for hire or reward (i.e., for commercial purposes).
• However, you may be paid to drive for non-profit organisations (e.g., schools or charities) operating under a Section 19 Permit.

If you passed your driving test after January 1997, you will not have D1 entitlement on your licence, but you can still drive a minibus under specific conditions:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You must have held a full car licence for at least two years.
• You are driving the minibus for social purposes on a voluntary basis for a non-profit organisation.
• The minibus must have a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of no more than 3.5 tonnes (or 4.25 tonnes if it has specialised equipment for disabled passengers).
• You must meet DVLA Group 2 medical standards.
• You are not being paid to drive (only out-of-pocket expenses can be claimed).

Obtaining a Full D1 Minibus Licence

If you want to drive a minibus commercially or for hire and reward, you will need to obtain a full D1 licence. This involves:

• Passing a medical examination and completing the DVLA D4 form to confirm you are fit to drive.
• Obtaining your provisional D1 entitlement.
• Passing a two-part test: a theory test and a practical driving test.

Once you have a full D1 licence, you can drive a minibus with up to 16 passengers, without weight restrictions, and you can be paid to do so.

Section 19 Permits for Non-Profit Organisations

Organisations that operate minibuses for non-commercial purposes, such as charities, schools, and sports clubs, can apply for a Section 19 Permit. This permit allows the organisation to charge passengers to cover running costs but does not allow them to make a profit.

Drivers operating under a Section 19 Permit do not need a full D1 licence if:

• They are driving voluntarily for a non-profit organisation.
• They meet the conditions outlined for driving on a car licence (as listed above).

Drivers Over 70 Years Old

At the age of 70, your D1 entitlement will normally be withdrawn unless you pass a PCV medical exam and submit the relevant form to the DVLA. If your entitlement is withdrawn, you will not be allowed to drive a minibus until it is reinstated, so it is important to act promptly if you want to continue driving minibuses.

Minibus Vehicle Options Without a D1 Licence

There are several minibuses that can be driven without a full D1 licence, provided they fall under the 3.5-tonne weight limit (or 4.25 tonnes with disabled passenger equipment). These vehicles include:

• Peugeot Boxer and Citroen Relay 17-seaters with a GVW of 4.25 tonnes (with specialised equipment).
• Ford Transit 12-seater, which is under the 3.5-tonne limit.
• Toyota Proace and Ford Tourneo 8 and 9-seaters, which are classed as cars and can be driven without a Section 19 Permit.

Conclusion

Whether you’re driving for a charity, a school, or a commercial company, it’s essential to understand the rules surrounding minibus licences and the types of vehicles you can drive. If you’re unsure of your entitlement, check the back of your driving licence and consult the DVLA for further guidance.

For more information about minibus driver training or vehicle options, contact Rivervale Minibus at 01869 253 744 or email us at minibus@rivervale.co.uk.