If you’re thinking about driving a minibus there are a few things that you need to consider before you set off on your journey.
- how many passengers are you transporting?
- Are you driving a minibus for profit?
There are many other factors that determine which licence you need and which vehicles you can drive when it comes to operating a minibus.
The licence restriction code 101 on a driving licence indicates that the licence holder cannot drive for hire or reward, i.e. not receive any form of payment and further indicates that the licence holder has not passed their D1 driving test.
You may be able to drive a minibus on your normal Category B car licence in the UK if:
- You’re older than 21 or 18 if you have completed the initial driver CPC
- You’ve held your licence for at least 2 years
- You’re driving on a voluntary basis
- The max weight of the minibus is below 3.5-tonnes or 4.25-tonnes including specialist equipment for disabled passengers
- You’re not towing a trailer
- You meet medical standards if you’re over 70 years of age
How many passengers can I carry in my minibus?
If you are driving a minibus with between 9 seats up to 16 passenger seats, you will require a CAT D1 licence. (Not including driver’s seat)
If the vehicle has more than 16 passenger seats, you will require a CAT D, bus & coach licence.
Do I need Driver’s CPC to drive a minibus?
You don’t need Driver’s CPC if you aren’t driving professionally or as part of a hire & reward service.
However, if you are charging passengers specifically, for-profit then you will be required to complete Driver’s CPC training.
