Driving A Minibus For Hire & Reward with the code 101

Can I use a D1 Licence with the code 101 to drive a minibus for hire and reward?

If you’re considering driving a minibus for hire and reward, it’s crucial to understand the detailed legal requirements regarding the appropriate licence entitlements. This blog post aims to guide you through the process of removing the 101 code (not for hire or reward) from your D1 Licence entitlement.

D1(101) Licence (Pre-1997 regulations):

If you passed your Category B driving licence before 1st January 1997, it’s likely that you will automatically have been granted the D1 entitlement, marked with the code 101. This code indicates ‘not for hire or reward’. Drivers with a category D1 101 on their driving licence can operate a minibus of any weight, whether as a volunteer or for personal use, without it being considered a hire or reward.

With a D1(101) licence category, you have the legal permission to drive a minibus constructed or adapted to carry between 8 and 16 passengers on a ‘not for hire-or-reward’ basis. Unless removed earlier, this entitlement typically stays on your licence until you reach 70. 

Driving a Minibus with D1(101) Licence:

Drivers with a D1(101) licence can drive a minibus under a Section 19 or Section 22 permit, with no weight restrictions. This allows individuals to participate in driving activities involving minibus transportation, whether for community services, group outings, or other non-commercial purposes.

Removal of Code 101 from the Driving Licence:

Drivers wishing to remove the code 101 from their licence and drive minibuses for hire and reward will need to complete a full PSV test as detailed below in the “Post-1997 Regulations”.

D1 Licence: Post-1997 Regulations

If you passed your  Category B driving licence on the 1st January 1997 or after, you will not have the D1 entitlement. To obtain a D1 licence category requires passing a specific test. This licence allows individuals to operate any minibus constructed or adapted to carry between 8 and 16 passengers for hire and reward. However, before starting practical driver training to get the D1 licence, you must pass a PSV driver medical examination to get a provisional licence.

The Group 2 Driving Test:

Similar to the basic driving test for category B vehicles, the Group 2 driving test,  consists of theoretical and practical elements, comprising of five parts:

• Part 1: Theory
• Part 2: Case Studies
• Part 3: Off -road Practical Driving assessment
• Part 4: On-road Practical Driving assessment
• Part 5: Practical Demonstration (often referred to as “show and tell”

Conclusion:

Understanding the intricacies of driving a minibus, especially regarding hire and reward scenarios, is vital for compliance with legal regulations. Whether you hold a D1(101) licence obtained before 1997 or need to acquire a D1 license post-1997, following the outlined procedures ensure the safe and lawful operation of minibuses.

By familiarising yourself with the requirements and undergoing necessary tests, you can confidently navigate the process and embark on minibus-driving ventures with clarity and compliance.

Are you thinking of operating minibuses for hire & reward?

You may need a qualified Transport Manager, so why not become one yourself?

NTP offers the UK’s leading Transport Manager CPC study course for passenger transport operations. Learn more about this course and how it can assist you by clicking here!