Self-Drive Minibus Hire & the Law

A minibus is a great way to transport larger groups to your destination, ensuring everyone arrives comfortable and altogether. They are defined as a passenger carrying vehicle with 9 to 16 passenger seats, plus the driver’s seat. Whilst driving the vehicle yourself may appeal as a novel way to travel, the laws permitting drivers to do so can be restricting, which is why here at Wyatt Coaches we offer competitively priced minibus hire with professional drivers.

We’ve outlined the key laws behind hiring a self-drive minibus.

Before 1st Jan 1997

If you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997, your license will normally show that you are entitled to drive a minibus throughout the UK and temporary visits to other EU countries, without needing an additional driving test – provided it is not for hire nor for reward. This means that no payment if any kind should be made by passengers e.g. a paid tour, or even a minibus service offered by a hotel could be considered for reward.

After 1st Jan 1997

Drivers who obtained their car license after 1st January 1997 are not entitled to drive a minibus in the UK without taking the additional driving test. However, full car driving license holders may drive a minibus if they meet all of the following conditions:

– the minibus is not used for hire or reward, but for social purposes only

– the driver is aged 21 or over

– the driver has held their license for a minimum of 2 years

– the driver is receiving no payment for driving; it must be on a voluntary basis only

– the minibus weighs no more than 3.5 tonnes

– they are not towing a trailer

It is vital that the minibus is driven socially and voluntarily only – if any payment is made to the driver or by the passengers, the minibus may not be driven without an additional minibus license.

Permits

In some circumstances, permit applications for a Passenger-Carry Vehicle (PCV) entitlement can be made if passengers are to be charged for the service. The following conditions still apply however:

– the vehicle only carries 9 – 16 passengers

– the organisation hiring the vehicle is voluntary and benefits the community e.g. an educational group

– the minibus will not be open to the general public

– charges are only made to cover the cost of running the vehicle, and no profit will be made from passengers

With all these conditions to be met, it can be difficult to hire a minibus to drive yourself while remaining within the boundaries of the law.

Of course, the easiest way to ensure to stress free journey is to hire a minibus with a professional driver! Our drivers here at Wyatt Coaches guarantee a punctual and courteous service, transporting you to where ever you need to go without the worry of who will drive and how you will get there.

We supply minibus hire for all budgets, so we’re confident that we have an offer to suit your needs. Give us a call today to find out more, and we’ll be happy to help you!