Can I drive a minibus?

Wondering “Can I drive a minibus?” or “Am I allowed to drive a minibus?” Find out what licence you need to drive a minibus – and whether you can drive a minibus on a car licence – right here.

The exact definition of what counts as a minibus can be a little flexible – but you will definitely need a driver’s licence to get behind the wheel. The real question is: do you need a special licence to drive a minibus? And can you drive a minibus on a regular car licence? This handy guide tells all.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

What licence do I need to drive a minibus?

The short answer is that you need a D1 driver’s licence to drive a minibus. The D1 is so specific to minibuses that it’s actually known as the ‘minibus licence’ and it allows you to drive a passenger-carrying vehicle which weighs more than 3,500kg.

Can you drive a minibus on a car licence?

You can, just about, drive a minibus on a regular car licence, but it gets a bit complicated and it all comes down to 1997…

Driving licence was issued before 1st January 1997

If you passed your test, and your driver’s licence was issued before 1997, then it automatically covers you for the D1 minibus category, so you’re all set to go. Also, you can drive a minibus with up to 16 seats on a regular car licence as long as none of the passengers, or the company that’s hired the minibus, are paying you for a service. However…

Driving licence was issued after 1st January 1997

If your driver’s licence was issued after January 1st 1997, then you won’t automatically have the D1 category on your licence, and so you’ll have to pass a separate set of tests. There are then two sets of criteria.

First, if you’re driving a minibus and only being paid enough to cover the basic costs of operating the vehicle, then you need to apply for a minibus permit from the DVSA. This allows people who drive minibuses in a voluntary capacity, say for a sporting club, to get a simpler permit. You have to be aged over 21, and have held a full driver’s licence for at least two years before applying.

Second, if you’re actually operating a minibus for a profit, then you need to go through a more rigorous process which involves applying for a Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence, for which you’ll need to get your doctor – and possibly your optician – to prove that you’re medically fit in order to get your provisional licence.

Then you need to pass the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) tests. These include a theory test (like the standard driver licence theory test, but harder), a hazard perception test, and a ‘Case Studies’ test which uses real-world scenarios to test your responses.

Next comes practical driving tests. These include driving in a controlled track-style environment, driving on the road, and finally the full on-road test and a ‘practical demonstration’ which tests you safely loading the vehicle, emergency situations and so on. To pass the final test, you will need to score at least 15 out of 20 in each topic area and have an overall score of at least 80 out of 100.

You’ll also need a Public Service Vehicle (PSC) operator’s licence, which is largely a paperwork exercise and involves proof that you need to operate a vehicle like a minibus as part of your work.

Bear in mind that a PSV licence is expensive: applying costs £257, and you’ll have to pay £401 to have the licence issued, and the same again every five years to keep it current.

How to drive a minibus

• Know the legal ins and outs – make sure you’ve read up on minibus driving rules and you know what you’re doing, especially which specific licence you need.
• If it’s your first time, take the minibus for practice driving when it’s empty, preferably on a quiet set of roads, or even just around a large empty car park so that you get used to manoeuvring it and judging the size of the vehicle.
• Set some ground rules for passengers, such as making sure that they wear their seatbelts, and that they know not to distract you while you’re driving.
• Make sure you allow space. If you’re used to driving a car, a minibus is a much bigger vehicle that takes more time to stop, and needs more space when threading your way through traffic, so make sure you allow for both.
• Watch your height. This is really important – make sure you know the exact height of your vehicle, and ensure that you know if there are any low bridges or height restrictions on your route.

Driving a minibus FAQs

Is it difficult to drive a minibus?

It’s not especially difficult to drive a minibus, but you have to know what you’re doing. Compared to a car, you will need to leave more space for braking, more room for turning around, and be very aware of your minibus’ height so as not to get caught out by any height restrictions. You’ll also have to remember that you’re driving with passengers on board, and their safety and comfort are paramount.

Can I drive a minibus with seats removed?

Yes, you can. The restriction on driving a minibus refers to its passenger carrying capability, so if the seats are out, it’s technically a van, and as long as it doesn’t weigh more than 3,500kg you can drive it on a car licence.

Do I have D1 on my driving licence?

In the UK, if you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, you will automatically have the D1 category on your driver’s licence, on a not-for-hire-or-reward basis. If you’ve passed your test after that date, you won’t and you’ll have to go through some complex procedures to gain a proper D1 minibus licence.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.