As an experienced HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) or PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) driver, you likely know the basic rules and regulations surrounding your driving licence. However, you may not be aware of the extensive range of driving licence codes that apply to different circumstances. Although some of these codes may seem irrelevant to your day-to-day operations, understanding them can benefit you. Even if you’re not directly affected, knowing the different codes could prove helpful in the future.
In this blog, we will explore UK driving licence codes and explain their meanings. Whether you’re considering an additional qualification or simply want to ensure you’re fully informed, this guide will provide clarity.
What Do the Codes on My Licence Mean?
Your UK driving licence may feature various driving licence codes, each with specific meanings that dictate the type of vehicles you are permitted to drive. The UK government has published these codes on its official website and these codes cover everything from eyesight requirements to vehicle adaptations, ensuring that drivers are suited for the vehicles they operate.
1. Health-Related Licence Codes
Some of the UK driving licence codes pertain to health conditions or required modifications to your vehicle or driving habits.
- 01 – Eyesight correction (e.g., glasses or contact lenses).
- 02 – Hearing or communication aid for drivers who need assistance.
- 31 – Pedal adaptations or safeguards for individuals who require specific controls.
- 35 – Modified control layouts for vehicles to accommodate physical conditions.
These codes ensure that individuals with specific health needs can drive safely, even with special equipment or modifications.
2. Modified Vehicle Codes
For drivers with specific requirements, vehicles may need modifications to ensure safe operation. Some common driving licence codes for modified vehicles include:
- 10 – Modified transmission.
- 15 – Modified clutch.
- 20 – Modified braking systems.
- 25 – Modified accelerator systems.
- 32 – Combined service brake and accelerator systems.
If you operate a vehicle adapted to accommodate physical limitations, these codes might apply to your licence.
3. Special Vehicle Adaptations
Some codes specifically apply to vehicles with more complex modifications, such as those that allow for the use of alternative controls or systems:
- 33 – Combined service brake, accelerator, and steering systems (for licences issued before 28 November 2016).
- 44 – Modifications for motorbikes (e.g., adapted front/rear wheel brakes, adjusted manual transmission, and manual clutch).
- 45 – Motorbikes only with a sidecar.
Understanding these codes helps you navigate any restrictions when operating a modified or adapted vehicle.
4. Restrictions on Vehicle Types
Certain UK driving licence codes impose restrictions on the types of vehicles you can drive based on your licence category:
- 70 – Exchange of licence, meaning your current licence has been exchanged for a new one.
- 71 – Duplicate of licence, indicating that a replacement licence has been issued.
- 78 – Restricted to vehicles with automatic transmission.
- 79 – Restricted to vehicles that conform to specifications listed on the licence.
These codes ensure you are aware of any limitations that may apply to your driving licence, such as automatic vehicles, specific specifications, or vehicle weights.
5. Trailer and Weight Limits
If you plan to tow a trailer, you’ll encounter several driving licence codes related to weight restrictions:
- 96 – Allowed to drive a vehicle and trailer where the trailer weighs at least 750kg, and the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer is between 3,500kg and 4,250kg.
- 97 – Not allowed to drive category C1 vehicles requiring a tachograph.
- 106 – Restricted to vehicles with automatic transmissions only.
These codes clarify the types of vehicles and trailers you can drive, including any specific weight restrictions.
6. Age and Passenger Restrictions
Some codes impose restrictions based on the driver’s age or the number of passengers allowed:
- 108 – Subject to minimum age requirements, applicable to various vehicle categories.
- 111 – Limited to vehicles with no more than 16 passenger seats.
- 113 – Limited to 16 passenger seats except for automatics.
If you drive vehicles with specific seating capacities, these codes determine the types of vehicles you are legally allowed to operate.
7. Additional Special Conditions
Finally, various other codes might apply depending on your specific qualifications or the type of vehicle you drive:
- 101 – Not for hire or reward (you’re not allowed to be paid for transporting goods or passengers).
- 122 – Valid on completion of Basic Moped Training Course (for licences issued after 29 June 2014).
- 114 – Special controls required for safe driving (e.g., vehicles adapted for drivers with disabilities).
Even if you don’t immediately require these conditions, it’s important to be aware of them in case they become relevant in the future.
UK driving licence codes: Why Should HGV and PCV Drivers Know About tHESE?
As an HGV or PCV driver, the driving licence codes on your licence might not seem directly relevant to your job. However, understanding them proves valuable for several reasons:
- Future career changes: You might decide to expand your qualifications or need to operate different types of vehicles, including those with adaptations.
- Vehicle modifications: If you drive a vehicle that’s modified or require specific aids, knowing these codes ensures compliance with safety regulations.
- Compliance with restrictions: Understanding the limitations of your licence, including weight limits, automatic transmission restrictions, and age requirements, helps you avoid being caught off-guard in specific situations.
Even though some of these UK driving licence codes may not seem immediately relevant to your HGV or PCV driving career, staying informed is essential. This way, you can confidently navigate the different requirements and limitations that may apply to your licence.
Conclusion
The UK driving licence codes explained in this blog demonstrate how complex the driving qualification system can be. While many of these codes may not apply to your daily driving routine, they are essential for the full spectrum of drivers in the UK. Whether you’re just starting or have been driving for years, understanding these codes is an important part of being a knowledgeable, compliant, and adaptable driver.
Next time you review your driving licence, take a moment to check for any relevant codes. You never know when this information could come in handy. Stay informed, stay safe, and prepare for whatever driving challenges come your way!
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