Driving a van is a great way of transporting a high volume of goods safely. Vans are available in a range of makes and models, such as small micro vans and large Luton vans.
Whether used for work, recreation, or sporting events, you will need to ensure your driving licence covers you to drive the size of van you are considering purchasing.
Van driving and licences
If you hold a valid UK car driving licence, you are covered to drive any other category B vehicle. This often includes vans such as a basic Ford Transit or similar; however, under category B, you must be mindful of vehicle weights. The maximum authorised mass, or MAM, permitted under category B is 3,500kg or 3.5 tonnes. Whilst many smaller vans within the UK fall comfortably into this weight range, larger vans and vehicles will not.
Vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg MAM require a C1 category on your driving licence. Driving a vehicle that exceeds your licence’s weight limits could see you landed with a fine or penalty points.
If you passed your car driving test before 1 January 1997, you will usually already have C1 entitlement. If you passed after that date, you will need to apply for provisional C1 entitlement and pass the relevant tests.
Used vans
For those considering buying a van, purchasing a used model comes with many advantages.
Vans depreciate in value over time, with most value being lost within the first 12 months of their life. Buying a used model can therefore be significantly cheaper and does not necessarily mean it will come with high mileage.
In addition to being cost-effective, there is a wide range of makes and models available and tax savings to be had.
Those looking for used vans can do an internet search; for example, someone in Cheltenham using the search term ‘used vans for sale near me’ will be shown the details of dealers such as Cotswold Van Centre.
Buying a used van from a reputable dealer also means the vehicle should have undergone testing and quality checks. Most reputable garages will offer a warranty in addition to regular maintenance and servicing packages.
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What hire companies check before handing over a van
Licence rules apply just as much when a van is hired rather than bought. Hire companies will ask for identification, proof of address and your licence details. Many also check how many penalty points you hold, and with a newer photocard licence you may need to generate a code so they can view your record online with the DVLA.
Age limits are common too. In most countries you need to be over 21 and have held your licence for at least a year to hire a vehicle, and further restrictions can apply to vans in particular.
It is worth knowing the rest of the terms before you set off. Breakdown contact details should be supplied with the vehicle. Most firms allow a short grace period on returns, after which hourly charges apply. Taking a hire van abroad may be possible depending on the rental conditions, the country and licensing rules, but always get the hire company’s consent first.
Matching the van to the job
Knowing what your licence covers is only half the decision. The other half is choosing a van that suits what you need to move. For short trips within a town or city, a small van is often enough and leaves room for a passenger.
For larger loads, establish how much weight the van can cope with and how much it is legally allowed to carry, then look at the space inside. High volume moves may call for a long wheelbase panel van or a Luton, while small vans remain a popular choice for lighter work.
Think about unloading as well. If space at the other end is tight, a sliding side door makes it easier and safer to get goods out. Finally, make sure the van can carry not only your goods but also the people you need at either end of the journey to load and unload.
Licence rules for towing a trailer
If your van or car will be pulling a trailer, there are further rules to check. You need a full driving licence whatever you tow, and if the maximum authorised mass is no more than 3,500kg you do not need any additional entitlement.
Above that, it depends on when you passed your test. Drivers who passed on or before 1 January 1997 can tow a vehicle and trailer combination with a maximum weight of 8,250kg. The rules for drivers who passed later have changed over the years, so check the current guidance before towing anything heavy.
Check your vehicle too. The handbook will tell you how much weight it is able to tow, and you must not exceed it. Anything you tow on the road needs to be well maintained so it is safe. Simple jobs can be done at home with replacement trailer parts, but leave serious problems, or anything you are unsure about, to a professional.