If you’re considering a career as a bus or coach driver in the UK, obtaining a Category D (Cat D) licence is essential. This professional licence allows you to legally operate large passenger vehicles, including public buses and long-distance coaches. Whether you’re looking to join a transport company or drive for private hire, this guide explains how to get a Cat D licence, what it costs, and the requirements involved.
What is a Category D Licence?
A Category D licence allows you to drive any bus with more than 8 passenger seats. This includes single-decker buses, double-deckers, and coaches used for public transport or private charter services. It’s part of the Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licence categories and is required by law for professional bus and coach drivers.
Cat D vs Other Licences:
- Category D1: Permits driving minibuses with up to 16 passengers and a maximum length of 8 metres.
- Category D: Covers all passenger vehicles with no upper limit on seating capacity.
- Category DE: Lets you tow a trailer over 750kg with a Cat D vehicle.
Vehicles You Can Drive with a Cat D Licence
With a full Cat D licence, you are permitted to drive:
- City and intercity buses
- Long-distance coaches
- Double-decker buses
- Articulated buses
- Buses for school transport or tourism
This licence is ideal if you intend to work with bus companies, school transport services, or coach operators.
Requirements for a Cat D Licence
Before you begin the application process, you must meet several legal and health-related Cat D licence requirements:
Minimum Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a full Category B (car) licence
- Pass a medical examination (DVLA Form D4)
- Meet vision and general health standards
- Apply for a provisional Category D licence (Form D2)
Driver CPC Requirement:
If you plan to drive professionally, you must also obtain the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This includes:
- Theory tests (Module 1a and 1b)
- Case studies (Module 2)
- Practical driving test (Module 3)
- Practical demonstration (Module 4)
How to Get a Cat D Licence in the UK
Here’s a step-by-step process on how to get a Category D licence:
- Apply for a Provisional Licence
- Fill in D2 and D4 forms (available from DVLA or your training provider)
- Submit the forms along with your medical results
- Take the Medical Examination
- Conducted by a GP or a private provider
- Assesses your fitness to drive large vehicles
- Pass the Theory Tests
- Module 1a: Multiple-choice questions
- Module 1b: Hazard perception
- Pass the Case Study Test (Module 2)
- Applies to professional drivers aiming to obtain the Driver CPC
- Complete Professional Training
- Enrol in a Category D training course (includes vehicle control, safety checks, road driving, etc.)
- Pass the Practical Driving Test (Module 3)
- Covers off-road manoeuvres, on-road driving, and vehicle safety
- Pass the CPC Practical Demonstration (Module 4)
- Required for obtaining full CPC qualification
How long does it take?
The process may take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on availability of test slots and training duration.
Cost of a Category D Licence
The cost of obtaining a Category D licence in the UK can vary depending on your location, training provider, and whether you’re applying for your Driver CPC alongside the licence. Generally, you’ll need to account for several components. The medical examination typically costs between £50 and £120. The theory tests—Module 1a (multiple-choice) and Module 1b (hazard perception)—are £48 in total, while the CPC case study (Module 2) is around £23. The practical driving test (Module 3) costs £115 on weekdays or £141 on evenings and weekends, and the CPC Module 4 practical demonstration test adds a further £55 to £63 depending on when you book. Perhaps the most significant cost comes from professional driver training, which can range from £1,200 to £2,800, depending on the course length and quality. Altogether, most applicants can expect the total cost of a Category D licence to fall between £1,500 and £3,500.
Conclusion
Securing a Category D licence opens the door to a rewarding career in passenger transport across the UK. From driving public buses to long-distance coaches, this qualification is vital for anyone aspiring to work professionally in the sector. By understanding the Cat D licence requirements, following the proper steps, and preparing for your theory and practical tests, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining this important licence. Whether you’re just starting out or changing careers, now you know how to get a Cat D licence, what it allows you to drive, and the costs involved.
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