29/08/2026
Learn to drive a minibus - volunteers wanted.
Have you wondered if you have the right licence to drive a minibus? The regulations have changed and now more people qualify. We offer free training to volunteer drivers who can meet the following conditions:
What Size Minibus Can I Drive?
A standard Category B driving licence enables the holder to drive a vehicle with up to 9 seats and with a weight of less than 3,500kg. A typical example would be a Ford Tourneo or Vauxhall Vivaro.
Now here’s where it gets slightly complicated, so bear with us. To drive a Minibus with 9-17 seats you require a D1 licence. If you passed your driving test before Jan 1st 1997, it’s likely you will automatically have this on your licence (but check). If you passed your test after Jan 1st 1997, in order to drive a minibus without a D1 licence you need to meet the following criteria*:
• You must be over 21.
• You must have held a full driving licence more than two years.
• You do not receive payment for driving the minibus.
• If over 70 you meet Group 2 medical standards.
• The organisation that operates the minibus is a not-for-profit, non-commercial entity. For instance, charity, club or school. Shildon Community Bus is a registered charity.
• For full details, see the Government regulations here.
• If in doubt as to whether you meet the criteria you should seek legal advice.
If you would like to find out more, please contact us.
The question we are asked most often at Minibus World is "Can I Drive a Minibus?" And, in many cases, the answer is "yes!".
