Who Can Drive a Minibus? A Beginners Guide

A minibus is a highly adaptable vehicle that can transport 8-16 passengers, but the legal requirements for driving one vary depending on factors like your licence, the type of driving (commercial or non-commercial), and your age. This guide will help clarify the rules for driving a minibus in the UK.

Can I Drive a Minibus on a Standard Car Licence?

Yes, under specific conditions, you can drive a minibus on a standard Category B car licence, but the following criteria must be met:

• You must be at least 21 years old.
• You must have held your car licence for at least two years.
• You must be driving the minibus for non-commercial purposes (for example, as a volunteer driver).
• The minibus must not weigh more than 3.5 tonnes (or 4.25 tonnes if it has specialist equipment for disabled passengers).
• You must not tow a trailer.

If you meet these conditions, you can drive a minibus without needing a full D1 licence.

D1 Entitlement and Driving Larger Minibuses

If your licence was issued before 1st January 1997, you automatically have D1 (101) entitlement, which allows you to drive minibuses with up to 16 passengers and without the 3.5-tonne weight restriction. This entitlement also allows you to drive for hire and reward under certain conditions, such as for non-profit organisations operating under a Section 19 Permit.

For those who obtained their licence after 1997, you do not automatically have D1 entitlement. To drive larger minibuses or for commercial purposes, you must pass a D1 driving test, which includes theory, practical, medical, and eyesight exams.

Section 19 Permit Explained

A Section 19 Permit allows non-profit organisations like schools, sports clubs, or charities to operate minibuses without needing a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence. Under this permit, you can drive a minibus on a car licence if:

• You’re driving on behalf of a non-profit organisation.
• The minibus is used for non-commercial purposes (transporting members, not the general public).
• You are not being paid to drive, except for out-of-pocket expenses.
• The vehicle's weight does not exceed 3.5 tonnes (4.25 tonnes if equipped for disabled passengers).

Organisations can apply for Section 19 Permits through the DVSA.

Driving a Minibus for Commercial Purposes

If you’re driving for a commercial company aiming to make a profit, you will need:

• A full D1 licence.
• A Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence and a PSV Operator’s Licence.
• CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) training, which includes 35 hours of periodic training every five years.

Drivers Aged Over 70

Drivers over 70 can still drive a minibus if they meet the Group 2 medical standards. If you have a D1 (101) entitlement but are 70 or older, you'll need to undergo a medical check when renewing your licence. Additionally, you’ll need to fill out a D2 application form and get a D4 medical report from your doctor.

If you don't meet the higher medical standards, you can drive a minibus under a Section 19 Permit, provided you meet all other criteria.

Insurance Requirements for Minibuses

All vehicles in the UK must have insurance against third-party risks. Minibuses can be more expensive to insure because of their size and passenger capacity, so it’s important to choose the right coverage:

• Third-Party Only: Basic coverage for damages to other vehicles.
• Third-Party Fire and Theft: Covers fire damage and theft as well as third-party claims.
• Comprehensive Insurance: Covers all of the above, plus any damage to your own vehicle.

Driving a minibus can be straightforward if you understand the rules regarding licences, permits, and conditions for both commercial and non-commercial use.

Whether you’re driving for a charity under a Section 19 Permit or for a commercial company, it’s important to ensure you meet the legal requirements for your situation.

For more detailed information, visit GOV.UK or contact your local transport authority.

At Rivervale, we offer a wide range of minibuses for leasing, from education and community events to short-term rentals. Contact us today for more information.

Do you have specific requirements by minibus size?

For specific licensing requirements based on minibus size, refer to our detailed articles on the following:

• 8 or 9-Seater Minibus Licence Requirements
• 16-Seater Minibus Licence Requirements
• 17-Seater Minibus Licence Requirements