Driving Licences - Vanarama’s Best Practise Guide for Van Drivers



Drivers that have obtained their full licence after September 2009 have to complete a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) to drive a van over 3.5 tons. It is now compulsory for drivers to earn a CPC every five years to be able to drive professionally. This is obtained by participating in 35 hours of additional training. Drivers that acquired their licences prior to 2009, they have until 2014 to obtain their CPC. More information can be found at this website: www.drivercpc.org

Maximum authorised mass is also known as Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and represents the total weight of the vehicle including a full payload. Van manufacturers normally but the maximum authorised mass figure on a plate either under the bonnet or on the inside of the drivers door. If it cannot be located, then refer to the vehicle manual.

The chart below shows licence requirements in relation to maximum authorised mass.

Vehicles Maximum Authorised Mass (GVW) Requirement
Not exceeding 3.5 tonne Category B (car) licence obtained after 01/01/1997
Not exceeding 7.5 tonne Category B (car) licence obtained after 01/01/1997
Not exceeding 7.5 tonne Category C1 licence (minimum age 21) post 01/01/1997
Greater than 3.5 tonne Certificate of Professional Competence - from September 2009 for new drivers and before 2014 for existing drivers

It is possible to renew driving licence photographs at post offices.

Most van rental companies require drivers to be a minimum age of 21