In the UK, a bus driver’s licence is categorised as a passenger carrying vehicle (PCV). All of the relevant minibus licence classifications are shown here.
- CAT D1
- CAT D1+E
- CAT D
- CAT D+E
CAT D1 Minibus Licence
You can operate minibuses with nine to sixteen passengers if you have a Category D1 licence. If you want to operate a small bus for a school, sports team, or other community organisation, this category is perfect for you.
With the exception of any specialised equipment intended to transport persons with disabilities, the minibus’s maximum weight cannot exceed 3.5 tonnes. A D1 licence allows you to tow a caravan weighing up to 750 kg.
CAT D1+E Minibus Licence
If you need to use your minibus to tow a larger trailer, you will require a D1+E licence. As long as the minibus and trailer weigh no more than 12,000 kg together, you can use this to haul a trailer weighing more than 750 kg.
CAT D Minibus Licence
Anyone wishing to operate a full-sized bus or coach with more than 16 passengers must have a Category D licence. Professional bus drivers employed by private coach firms or public transportation agencies typically need this licence.
There is no cap on the maximum weight or size of the bus you can run with this licence. A trailer weighing up to 750 kg can be towed.
CAT D+E Minibus Licence
A D+E licence is required for anyone who needs to pull a larger trailer with their bus or coach. There is no top weight limit for towing trailers weighing more than 750 kg with a bus or coach.
Steps that Help You to Get Minibus Licence
There are multiple steps involved in getting a bus driver’s licence, all of which are intended to make sure you are ready to operate a vehicle that transports passengers in a safe and efficient manner. The following must be completed if you plan to get your bus licence:
1. Meet The Basic Requirements
Before starting the application procedure for a bus driving licence, you need to meet the following requirements:
Age
However, if you’re 18 years old and pursuing the Initial Driver CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) qualification, you can drive a full-sized bus.
Driving Licence
You need to have a current, complete UK driver’s licence (Category B).
2. Apply For A Provisional PCV Licence
After meeting the requirements, the next step is to apply for a provisional PCV licence:
Form D2
Complete the D2 application form that is available from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Medical Examination (D4)
A medical examination and the completion of a D4 medical form by a physician are required. This guarantees that you are in good physical condition to operate a bus.
Send The Forms
You will be granted a provisional PCV licence upon successful completion of your application, which will enable you to start your hands-on training.
3. Pass The Theory Tests
You have to pass a number of theory tests before you can take the practical driving test:
Multiple-Choice Test
This test evaluates your understanding of driving theory, traffic laws, and particular passenger car regulations. You need to finish 100 questions with a minimum score of 85 to pass.
Hazard Perception Test
Watching video clips of actual driving situations and spotting possible dangers are part of this test.
4. Pass The Practical Driving Test
You will be prepared to take the practical driving test following your training, which consists of:
Vehicle Safety Questions
You’ll be questioned regarding routine auto maintenance and safety inspections.
Practical Driving Test
You will be put to the test on your ability to safely transport passengers, regulate the vehicle, and obey traffic signs during a 90-minute drive on a variety of roads.
Off-Road Exercises
Additionally, you’ll have to perform some off-road actions, such as backing into a parking space and acting out passenger pickup and drop-off protocols.
5. Complete The Driver CPC Qualification
The CPC is a certification that guarantees all professional drivers with the abilities and know-how required to carry out their duties in a safe and lawful manner. You can easily get CPC training West-Sussex and CPC training Coventry, so without any worries you can pursue your CPC driver training in the UK.
Initial Qualification
The four components of driver CPC training include the two theory tests discussed above, a case study test, and a practical skill demonstration.
Periodic TrainingTo keep your certification current, you must finish 35 hours of CPC periodic training every five years after receiving your CPC.
