Process for D1 Licence Acquisition

The following is intended as a guide to the various stages in obtaining a category D1 minibus licence.

Reference is made to the Driver CPC (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/driver-cpc-exemptions-examples) throughout this guide for ease of understanding.

1.        Applying for a Provisional Licence
 

The first step in obtaining a licence is to add the D1 provisional entitlement to your current driving licence. You do this by completing a D2 form issued by the DVLA.

Next we will need to book a PCV medical examination with a doctor. You will need to take a DVLA form (form D4) with you to your appointment for the doctor to complete.

You should then send off your category B car licence, the D2 and D4 forms to DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BR.

The medical examination must have taken place and have been signed and dated by the doctor, optician or optometrist no more than 4 months before the date the application is received by DVLA.

All of the above forms are available using the link below:                        https://www.gov.uk/dvlaforms

2.        Booking your Theory Test (Module 1)
 

When you have received your licence back from the DVLA with the D1 provisional entitlement, we will be able to book your Theory Test (Module 1).

The test is divided into two separate parts: the Multiple Choice Test (100 questions) and the Hazard perception Test (19 interactive clips).

You will need to take your driving licence.

Once you have passed this module you can begin your practical training. We supply a DVD study pack to help you prepare for Module 1.

Professional Drivers – Driver CPC (Module 2)

In addition to passing the Theory Test (Module 1), if you want to become a professional driver you will also need to pass a Driver CPC Case Study Test (Module 2)

The Case Study Test is computer based. There are seven case study tests, each with between six and eight questions. The questions are based on real life situations which you may encounter in your working life as a professional driver.

We can book the Driver CPC Module 2 Case Study Test for you.

Once you have passed the Case Study Test you may begin your practical training.

3.        Practical Driver Training

The practical training course will cover all aspects required by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) Syllabus. Items covered will include: Module 3a off-road reversing Module 3b vehicle safety checks & questions driving on urban & rural roads procedures at bus stops dual carriageways & motorways

4.        The Practical Driving Test (Module 3 parts a and b)

 

The practical tests must be taken in a minibus which is fitted with:

	externally mounted nearside and offside mirrors including suitably positioned mirrors for the examiner to use
	a seatbelt for the examiner or any person supervising the test
	a tachograph
	anti-lock braking (ABS)

and must be:

	between 9 and 16 passenger seats
	with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of 4 tonnes or more (minimum)
	at least 5 metres in length

5.        Practical Demonstration Test – Driver CPC (Module 4)
 

If you need to achieve the full professional Driver CPC qualification you will be required to undergo a final test. This test takes place at the practical test centre.

This test will test your knowledge in the following areas:

	Prepare for duty in a safe manner
	Ensure your vehicle is fit for service
	Inspect and use equipment in conjunction with the Disability Discrimination Act
	Show you can take measures to ensure that illegal immigrants or goods are prevented from being carried

On completion of all the above Driver CPC tests you will be issued with your Driver Qualification Card which is valid for a period of 5 years, after which time you will be required to renew it by undertaking periodic training.

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