Which Vans Can I Drive On A Car Licence in the UK?

Whether you’re moving house, starting a business or simply need a larger vehicle for the weekend, vans are a great solution to a number of problems. With their extra space and increased payload, renting or buying a van can streamline tasks that would otherwise take dozens of trips.

For many people, however, driving a van is a new experience, and the different types available can seem complicated at first. That’s why it is important to understand which types of van you are eligible to drive on a regular UK driving licence, and which ones you’ll need additional testing for.

Here’s a quick guide from Van Sales UK.

What Does My Licence Allow?

Despite the common misconception that you need to obtain a different licence to drive a van, the vast majority of conventional vans in the UK are driveable with a regular UK driving licence.

The standard UK licence, also known as a category B licence, entitles the holder to drive a regular, rigid-axle van or pick-up truck as long as it weighs less than 3500kg (3.5 tonnes). This law applies to all UK licences acquired after 01/01/1997.

Strangely, if you passed your test before this date, you are eligible to drive a van weighing up to 8,250. This is due to changes in legislation by the UK government. It is always worth double-checking the current government guidelines regarding driving licences and vehicle allowances.

Can I Drive A Luton Van?

An increasingly common query from those with a standard UK driving licence is whether or not you can drive a Luton van.

Luton vans are large fixed-axle box vans with vast storage space that often extends over the cab area. They are most commonly used when emptying or moving house. Fortunately, you do not need any additional certification to drive a Luton van, making them ideal for house removals and other tasks that require ample storage.

Which Licence Do I Have?

If you’re not sure what type of UK driving licence you have, there are a few easy ways to tell.

On the back of your licence, there will be four different columns specifying the categories and vehicle types you are permitted to drive when your licence became valid when it expires and licence codes.

Most UK licences will feature very similar layouts, but there may be slight variations depending on when the licence was issued.

Can I Hire A Van?

Regarding van hire and leasing, the same laws apply as mentioned above. However, the age of the driver may also play a role in their ability to rent a van. Some companies implement extra fees for young drivers due to their lack of experience and higher insurance costs.

Van Sales UK: New And Used Vans

Here at Van Sales UK, we have a huge selection of new and used vans available for purchase. Many of which are perfectly suited to those with regular UK driving licences.

If you are contemplating purchasing a van for personal or commercial reasons, don’t hesitate to contact us.