Obtaining a D1 licence in the UK allows you to drive vehicles with 9 to 16 passenger seats, such as minibuses, so, you will encounter various D1 Licence cost if you want to acquire it. This comprehensive guide breaks down all the expenses involved in obtaining and renewing a D1 licence, as well as some additional costs you may face.
What is a D1 Licence?
A D1 licence is necessary to drive minibuses, defined as vehicles with 9 to 16 passenger seats. This includes vehicles like mini-buses, commonly used for both private and commercial purposes. To get your D1 licence, you must meet specific requirements and complete several steps, each with associated costs.
D1 Licence Cost Breakdown
1. Eligibility and Medical Examination
Before starting your training for a D1 licence, you must ensure you meet specific eligibility criteria. The first step is a medical examination, usually carried out by your GP. This examination confirms that you are fit to drive a minibus.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old.
- Cost of Medical Examination: The medical exam typically costs between £100 and £150, depending on the GP.
2. Training Costs
While formal training isn’t mandatory for obtaining a D1 licence, you should consider it to ensure you are fully prepared for both the theory and practical tests.
- Driving Lessons: Driving lessons typically cost between £30 and £50 per hour. Depending on your driving experience, you may need between 10 and 20 hours of lessons, resulting in a total cost ranging from £300 to £1,000.
- Comprehensive Training Packages: Some driving schools offer all-inclusive packages that cover theory test preparation, practical lessons, and test bookings. These packages generally cost between £600 and £1,500.
3. Theory Test
Before taking the practical driving test, you must pass the D1 theory test. The theory test includes two parts: multiple-choice questions and a hazard perception test.
- Cost of the Theory Test: The theory test costs £23, and you can book it online.
- Study Materials: To prepare, you can buy study materials like books or online courses, which generally cost between £10 and £30.
4. Practical Driving Test
Once you pass the theory test, you can take the practical driving test. This test assesses your ability to drive a minibus safely and effectively.
- Cost of the Practical Test: The D1 practical test costs £115 on weekdays and £150 for evening or weekend tests.
- Vehicle Hire for the Test: If you don’t own a minibus, you will need to hire one for the test. Hiring a minibus typically costs between £100 and £200.
5. Applying for the D1 Licence
After passing both the theory and practical tests, you can apply for your D1 licence. If you already have a full UK driving licence, this step is relatively simple.
- Cost of the Application: Applying online costs £34, while applying by post costs £43.
6. Additional Costs
Some additional costs may apply, especially if you plan to use the minibus for commercial purposes.
- Driver CPC: You will need driver CPC too if you want to drive minibuses for hire and reward and it can cost up to £270.
- First Aid Course: If you intend to use the minibus for hire or reward (commercial purposes), you may need to complete a First Aid course. This course costs between £50 and £150.
- Criminal Record Check: If you plan to use the minibus commercially, you may need an enhanced criminal record check, costing £44.
- Insurance: Insurance is essential if you plan to drive the minibus for business or hire purposes. Insurance costs generally range from £500 to £1,500 annually, depending on your driving history and usage.
7. Renewing Your D1 Licence
The D1 licence isn’t a one-time cost; it requires renewal after a set period, depending on your age and whether you drive the minibus for personal or commercial purposes.
- Renewal Costs: Renewing your D1 licence costs £14 for online renewals and £17 for postal renewals.
- Medical Examination for Renewal: Depending on your age and circumstances, you may need to complete a medical exam for renewal, which can cost between £100 and £150.
8. Ongoing Costs
Once you’ve obtained your D1 licence, there are ongoing costs, especially if you use the minibus for business purposes.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Keeping your minibus in good condition requires regular maintenance, including MOTs and repairs. The annual cost for vehicle maintenance typically ranges from £200 to £500.
- Insurance and Road Tax: If you use the minibus for commercial purposes, you must consider road tax and insurance premiums. Road tax typically costs between £200 and £500 annually, while insurance for a business can range from £1,000 to £2,000.
Total Cost Breakdown
To summarize the cost of obtaining and renewing your D1 licence, here’s a breakdown of estimated expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
| Medical Examination (Initial) | £100 – £150 |
| Training Lessons (10-20 hours) | £300 – £1,000 |
| Theory Test | £23 |
| Study Materials | £10 – £30 |
| Practical Test | £115 – £150 |
| Vehicle Hire for Test | £100 – £200 |
| Application for D1 Licence | £34 (online) |
| First Aid Course (if required) | £50 – £150 |
| Criminal Record Check (if required) | £44 |
| Insurance | £500 – £2,000 |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Tax | £200 – £500 |
| D1 Licence Renewal (Online) | £14 |
| D1 Licence Renewal (Postal) | £17 |
| Medical Examination for Renewal | £100 – £150 |
Minibus Licence Cost: Additional Factors
The total cost of obtaining a D1 licence can vary depending on factors like your location, choice of training provider, and whether you opt for additional qualifications like the Driver CPC. Typically, you can expect to spend between £800 and £1,800 for the entire process, including medical exams, theory and practical tests, and optional training packages.
Do I Need a CPC to Drive a Minibus?
Commercial drivers typically require a CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence). This certification ensures that drivers are trained in road safety, vehicle operation, and other essential aspects of transporting passengers. If you use your D1 licence for professional purposes, you will likely need a CPC, which adds to the overall cost.
Conclusion
The cost of obtaining a D1 licence in the UK involves various expenses, including medical exams, training, theory and practical tests, and insurance. While the overall cost can vary, it’s important to consider all factors, from initial training to ongoing vehicle maintenance and insurance. By budgeting carefully and understanding the full range of costs, you can ensure a smooth process toward becoming a licensed minibus driver, whether for personal or commercial use. The D1 licence opens up a range of opportunities, allowing you to drive minibuses for various purposes across the UK.