FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Van Hire: Age, Licences, and Restrictions

Do I need a van license to drive a van or can I use a B car licence?
As long as the van does not weigh more than 3.5 tonnes for its maximum gross weight or loaded weight, you can use a car licence to drive the van. Most rental vans fall into this laden weight category, so a category B car licence should be fine.

Is there an age restriction for hiring a van or driving a hired van?
In general, anyone who is 17 years of age or older is legally allowed to drive a van. This means that legally, anyone who is 17 years of age or older is legally allowed to hire a van. However, the cost of insurance is prohibitive for individuals younger than 25. Therefore, many van hire companies will not rent to individuals who are younger than 25. Some van hire companies will rent vans to individuals who are at least 21 years of age.

Can I rent and drive a van with a provisional licence as long as I have a qualified passenger with me?

Yes, you are legally allowed to drive a van with a provisional licence and a qualified passenger. However, most likely you will not be able to find a van hire company that will allow you to drive a rental van with a provisional licence and a passenger who is qualified. It simply isn’t done since van hires are for qualified drivers only.

Do I need a C1 licence to drive a van?
First f all, a C1 licence falls into the category for driving vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes of laden weight or dry goods. Since most rental vans fall into the category of weighing 3.5 tonnes for maximum laden weight or less, you will generally not need a C1 licence. If you do rent a larger vehicle, then you will need to have a C1 licence. The C1 entitlement used to be automatically included with the car driving test prior to 1997, so you might already have it.

Are there any rules against prescription eyewear?
No limitations are imposed against drivers who wear contact lenses or glasses for normal driving purposes.