Online Minibus Hire - Driving licence requirements, how many passengers & age limits

Minibus Hire

Hiring a minibus is a popular and practical way to transport up to 17 people (including the driver). It saves using more than one car and allows everyone to stay together - ideal for:


  • Stag & hen nights
  • Sports fixtures
  • Muscial groups
  • Day trips
  • Large family outings
  • ...and much more

Online Minibus Hire Quotes

15/17 Seat Minibus Hire
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Most people with car licences will find that they are entitled to drive a minibus as long as it is not for 'hire or reward' (i.e. you won't be paid and you won't charge anyone for travelling, apart from costs).

However, there are a few restrictions. Here's an overview:


Drivers who passed their car tests before 01/01/1997

The good news is that you should have a category D1 entitlement on your driver's license.

This means that you can drive minibuses with up to 17 seats (including the driver's) as long as you are over 21 and not driving for hire or reward - no money other than expenses should be involved.


Drivers who passed their test after 01/01/1997 or have renewed their licenses since 01/01/1998

You will probably find that you do not have D1 entitlement on your licence.

However, according to the DVLA, you can still drive a minibus with up to 16 passenger seats so long as:

  • you are driving for social purposes on behalf of a non-commercial body and not for hire or reward
  • you are aged 21 or over but under 70
  • you have held a car (category B) licence for at least 2 years
  • you are working on a voluntary basis
  • the minibus has a maximum weight of no greater than 3.5 tonnes (pretty much all rental minibuses)
  • you do not tow any kind of trailer

Please note this is not a definitive guide. See the Minibus Guide on the DVLA's website for full details.


Minibus Speed Limits

Speed limits for minibuses are slightly different to those for cars:

  • Built-up areas: 30mph
  • Single carriageways: 50mph
  • Dual carriageways: 60mph
  • Motorways: 70mph

Note the lower speed limits on single and dual carriageway roads.

Online Minibus Hire Quotes

15/17 Seat Minibus Hire
 		7 Seat MPV Hire
Simple, One-Step Hire Quote - No Personal Details Required


Click here to learn more about minibuses