Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes and no. If you obtained your Category B (standard driver’s licence) before the 1st January 1997, your licence would be covered under Grandfathering Rights, or acquired rights. What this means is that your licence will already come with the D1 category albeit with restrictions attached. A 101-restriction code prevents anyone from operating a minibus with up to 17 seats for profit meaning you would be restricted to private use only.
If you wish to drive a minibus for hire and reward (profit), you must complete Category D1 training in order to lift this restriction. Likewise, if you passed your driver’s test after the 1st January 1997, you’ll be required to complete the above training to operate a minibus for both profit and private use.
Here at Wayside Transport, we’re more than capable of assisting you in this endeavour. Our professional, experienced and friendly team members are on hand to instruct you in everything you’ll need to know when operating a minibus with and without passengers aboard. This course is suitable for both individuals looking to invest in their careers and companies wishing to train their employees.
There are some official requirements for you to undertake before starting the course.