If you’re thinking about leasing a van for personal or business use in the UK, you’re probably wondering: Can I drive a van on my licence? Or do I need a specific van licence before I can get behind the wheel?
The answer largely depends on the weight of the van as well as the year you passed your driving test, however there are additional factors you’ll need to consider too. With this in mind, we’ve broken down all the necessary details in the following guide.
What licence do I need to drive a van?
The good news is, if you hold a full UK car driving licence (Category B), you’re legally allowed to drive any van weighing up to 3.5 tonnes (3,500kg). This weight limit includes the majority of vans available to buy or lease in the UK today.
If you passed your test before January 1997, your licence might include Category C1, allowing you to drive heavier vehicles weighing up to 7.5 tonnes (7,500kg) too.
How can I check what type of licence I have?
You can check your driving licence category in two simple ways. First, refer to column 9 on the back of your licence, which shows the types of vehicles you’re eligible to drive.
Your licence details can also be checked on the Gov.uk website. All you’ll need to do is type in your National Insurance number, licence number, and postcode.
What size vans can I drive?
Next, let’s take a look at some of the vans you’re able to drive with a UK licence.
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Small vans
With low running costs and impressive fuel efficiency, small vans are ideal if you’re looking for a vehicle for everyday use. And as mentioned, those under 3,500kg, like the Citroen Berlingo, can be driven on a regular licence. The Citroen Berlingo offers:
- A load space of up to 4.4 cubic metres
- A payload capacity of 1,000kg
- Petrol, diesel, and all-electric models.
Whether you’re looking for a van to transport goods, carry tools, or simply get from A to B, the Berlingo is a great choice.
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Medium vans
You can also drive medium-sized vans on a regular category B licence, including the popular Volkswagen Transporter or Mercedes Vito. Both of these offer a combination of comfort and carrying power, making them ideal for tradespeople looking for a practical work vehicle.
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Large vans
Looking for more load space and towing capability? A large van might be more appropriate. Some models, however, may exceed the 3.5-tonne limit, so you’ll need to carefully check the gross vehicle weight (GVW) and your licence category.
If the van exceeds the weight limit and you don’t have Category C1, you’ll need to take a separate test.
Can I drive an electric van on my licence?
Because electric vans have heavy batteries, the government allows those with a regular Category B licence to drive vehicles weighing up to 4.25 tonnes (4,250kg). This greater limit was introduced to support the shift towards greener transport.
You’re unlikely to hit this limit with models like the Ford e-Transit Custom, but bigger models like the Iveco eDaily might exceed this threshold.
Is there a specific van driving licence?
No, there isn’t a specific licence for van driving in the UK. As mentioned, what you can drive depends on the category of your licence and the weight of the vehicle. However, a Category C1 is required for petrol and diesel vans weighing between 3,500kg-7,500kg. To get this licence you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Apply for provisional C1 entitlement
- Complete and pass the C1 theory and practical tests
Browse our van lease deals today
In most cases, if you have a valid UK driving licence, you’re good to go when it comes to driving a regular-sized van. However, it’s always worth double checking the van’s weight and your licence categories, especially with larger models.
Here at Leasing Options, we have an impressive range of van leasing deals for you to explore. With low fixed monthly payments and the opportunity to drive a new van every few years, there are a variety of benefits to van leasing.
Whether you’re looking for a compact city van that you can drive with a regular licence or something on the larger side, just contact us to talk through your options.
Or, if it’s additional insights you’re after, you’ll find plenty over on our blog. There you can check out our full guide to van leasing or our van leasing insurance guide. We’ve also pulled together some insights on van speed limits too.
Van licence FAQs
Can I drive a van on a provisional licence?
You can drive a van on a provisional licence, but the same rules apply as when learning to drive a car. You must be properly insured, and be accompanied by someone over the age of 21 who has had their licence for at least three years.
Do I need a different licence to drive a van for business use?
No, the same rules apply whether you’re driving a van for personal or business purposes. Just make sure your insurance covers business use if needed.
Can I drive a minibus with a regular licence?
A regular Category B licence means you can drive a minibus with up to 16 passengers. This is as long as:
- It’s for social use (not hire or reward)
- You’re 21 or over
- You’ve had your licence for two years or more
- The minibus adheres to the 3.5 tonne weight restriction (or up to 4,250kg if the vehicle is carrying mobility equipment).
What happens if I drive a van that’s too heavy for my licence?
It’s illegal to drive a van that exceeds the weight limit on your licence. Doing so can lead to fines, penalty points, and even prosecution. Always verify your van’s weight against your licence entitlements before you get behind the wheel.
