PCV Training

What is PCV Training?

PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) is, as name implies, is a vehicle that can carry passengers for transport like mini buses, coach etc. PCV driving license requires a substantial investment of both time and money, similar to acquiring any other license. In order to get this licence, you need PCV training.

This training often covers various aspects, including:

Vehicle Operation: Understanding how to drive larger vehicles safely.
Safety Regulations: Learning about the legal requirements and safety standards for transporting passengers.
Customer Service: Developing skills for interacting with passengers and handling various situations.
Emergency Procedures: Preparing for emergency scenarios, including first aid and evacuation protocols.

Training may include classroom instruction, practical driving tests, and assessments of driving skills.

What are the requirements/qualifications for PCV training?

The requirements for Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) training can vary by country or region, but generally include the following:

Age: Typically, you must be at least 18 years old, though some areas may require a minimum age of 21.
Driving License: You usually need to hold a valid standard driving license (often a category B license) before applying for PCV training.
Medical Examination: A medical examination is often required to ensure you meet health and fitness standards for driving larger vehicles.
Theory Test: Many places require you to pass a theory test covering road safety, vehicle regulations, and passenger transport rules.
Practical Training: Completion of a specific number of training hours with an approved instructor, focusing on driving skills and passenger safety.
Background Check: Some jurisdictions may require a criminal background check, especially for jobs that involve working with vulnerable populations.
Certification: Upon successful completion of training and assessments, you’ll typically receive a certification or license allowing you to operate passenger vehicles.

Duration of PCV Training Programs

A D1 minibus driving course typically spans three days, with the shorter duration reflecting the vehicle’s easier maneuverability compared to larger buses or coaches. In contrast, a bus or coach driving course (Cat D) generally lasts about five days due to the extensive knowledge and skills required to meet the necessary driving standards. If you pursue driver training for a bus or coach with a trailer, expect the course to last 5 to 8 days, including a final day for your driving assessment.

What is PCV Licence?

A PCV license, or Passenger Carrying Vehicle license, is a specific type of driving license that allows an individual to drive vehicles designed to carry passengers, such as buses and coaches. In UK, PCV licenses are categorized and the specific category you need depends on the number of passenger seats. This license is essential for anyone looking to work in the passenger transport industry, including bus drivers, and coach drivers.

What are the PCV License Categories?

Category D1: For minibuses seating 9-16 passengers, with or without a trailer weighing up to 750kg.

Category D1+E: This category includes minibuses (9-16 passengers) with trailers exceeding 750kg but not over 12,000kg.

Category D: This category covers buses with more than 8 passenger seats and trailers weighing up to 750kg.

Category D+E: This category allows drivers to operate buses (more than 8 passenger seats) with trailers over 750kg

How much does PCV License Cost?

For a rough estimate, expect the cost of D1 minibus training—covering medical exams, theory instruction, tests, and Driver CPC—to fall between £1,400 and £1,800. Obtaining a Cat D (bus or coach) license, including CPC and all necessary tests, typically ranges from £1,900 to £2,400. If you pursue the DE category without passing the Cat D test (an option available since November 2021), expect to invest the most, typically between £2,500 and £3,400.

These estimates encompass all associated costs, including the medical examination, Module 4 CPC, VAT, and all test fees.

What are the Factors Affecting PCV License Cost?

License Type (e.g., Category D, D1)
Training Location
Additional Fees (e.g., Medical Exams)

Free PCV Training Opportunities

Currently, no government-backed schemes exist to finance your bus license. However, some bus companies offer to cover your training costs and provide employment after you pass. This option allows you to enter the industry without a hefty upfront investment. Keep in mind that many of these companies may require you to work for them for a specified period—typically at least two years—as part of their investment in your training.

For how long is the PCV Licence valid for?

After obtaining your D1, D, or DE license, it remains valid until you reach the age of 45. At that point, you’ll need to pass a medical examination to verify your fitness to drive for an additional five years. The DVLA does not impose a fee for renewing your license; you only need to pay for the medical exam, which usually costs between £50 and £150.

To ensure you don’t miss your renewal date, monitor the expiry information on the back of your license or check it online. Additionally, the DVLA will send a reminder 6-8 weeks before your license expires. Remember, driving a D1, D, or DE vehicle without a valid license is a criminal offense, so it’s crucial to keep your license current

Conclusion

PCV training is essential for those seeking to drive passenger vehicles, such as minibuses and coaches. It involves a comprehensive process that includes a medical exam, theory and practical training, and tests to ensure drivers are knowledgeable about safety regulations, vehicle operation, and customer service. Obtaining a PCV license requires a significant financial investment, with costs varying by license type and training location. But return of investment is worth it since bus drivers earn a lot. Overall, PCV training is crucial for ensuring the safety and competence of drivers in the passenger transport industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of a PCV license?

The cost of a PCV license varies based on factors like course duration and training location. Typically, costs range from £1,800 to £3,400.

How long is a PCV license valid for?

Once you pass your PCV driving test, your license is valid until you turn 45. After that, you need to undergo a medical examination every five years to maintain your entitlement.

How much does Bus driver earn in UK?

The remuneration for these positions is quite attractive, with salaries ranging from £37,000 to £40,000 per annum for newly qualified drivers

What is a D1 bus category?

A Cat D1 license allows you to operate minibuses with no more than 16 passenger seats.

What does PCV Training look like?

Medical Exam: Pass a routine medical exam to ensure good health, with results submitted to the DVLA.
Provisional Entitlement: Apply for a provisional license while waiting for medical paperwork.
Theory Test Preparation: Study for a 100-question theory test focused on road safety and bus-specific knowledge.
Practical Skills Training: Complete training that includes classroom instruction and hands-on driving experience.
Practical Skills Test: Pass the practical skills test to qualify for a PCV driving position.
CPC Module 4 Training & Test: Complete CPC Module 4 training and pass the corresponding test as part of the certification process. This last step basically is a Driver CPC as you can tell.

Looking for FURTHER INFO ON TRAINING?

If you want to find broker free PCV training providers near your area in UK, you can use our locator for further information.