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If you’re thinking of hiring or driving a minibus, you’ve probably come across the term PCV licence a few times. But what is a PCV licence exactly? We’re here to answer that question and explain why this licence category is very important for minibus drivers. We’ll also go over the different types of PCV licences and the process of obtaining them.
A PCV licence is a licence that allows you to legally operate a bus or coach. Seeing as minibus seats can fit more people than a car, you need a special licence to drive them. A PCV licence is the right licence for this. PCV stands for Passenger Carrying Vehicle. Anyone who has a car licence can get it if they pass the theory test, driver training and practical test.
Your PCV licence will have codes printed on the back to show you what category of vehicle you can drive.
Types Of PCV Licences
If you plan to take PCV Category D courses, you should have an idea about each PCV category. Here is an overview of the driving licence categories:
- Category D1 – The D1 allows coach drivers to carry up to 16 passengers and a load of 750 kg in a vehicle that has a maximum length of 8 metres.
- Category D1+E – You can do the same as a D1 licence and also tow heavier trailers than 750 kg. However, the vehicle and trailer combined mustn’t weigh over 12 tonnes.
- Category D – With this licence, you can drive more than 16 passengers with a trailer of up to 750kg.
- Category D+E – The most advanced category gives you the freedom to drive more than 16 people and tow more than 750 kg.
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How To Obtain Passenger Carrying Vehicle Licence
There are a few steps you should take to get your Category D licence and start driving a minibus. No matter which PCV licence category you want, you’ll need to do the following:
- Medical examination – You have to be in reasonably good health to drive a minibus. That’s why everyone applying for this licence has to pass a medical exam.
- Provisional entitlements application – The next step in the process is to apply for a provisional entitlement. You’ll need it to undergo practical skill driver training and eventually go on a practical driving test.
- Theory test – The test starts with a multiple-choice question section, where you’ll have to answer 100 questions related to general road safety and handling a large vehicle. The second part is the hazard perception test and PCV case studies. The provisional entitlement and a passing grade on the theory test will decide whether you can proceed to the next part.
- Practical skills training – Practical PCV training consists of time spent in the classroom and behind the wheel.
- PCV driving test – The final step is to take and pass the skill PCV test to obtain a PCV driver’s licence.
The PCV licence was formerly known as a PSV licence.
How Long Does It Take To Obtain A PCV Licence?
It takes about 7-8 weeks to obtain a PCV licence. However, the PCV medical examination and the application itself shouldn’t take more than three weeks. The next three weeks will be about booking and passing theory tests. Lastly, practical tests and training courses should take another 5-7 days. Congratulations! Now you can drive a bus or coach.
From the 12-seater Transit to the 15-seater minibus from Ford, your options are endless with SDVH. Book a spacious minibus today for travels anywhere in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does A PCV Training Cost?
A PVC training costs between £1,000 and £3,000. The exact cost depends on various factors, such as the location of the training and what is included in the training package. The cost also varies among various agencies and PCV training schools. Make sure to investigate thoroughly and compare all your options before making a decision.
What's The Difference Between A PCV And A PSV Licence?
There is no difference between a PCV and a PSV licence. PSV stands for Public Service Vehicle, while PCV stands for Passenger Carrying Vehicle. ‘PSV’ is an older term used mostly in the UK, while ‘PCV’ is used all around the EU. When it comes to a driving licence, in both cases, it means that you’ll get to drive a passenger-carrying vehicle that has over 16 seats.
What Types Of Vehicles Can You Drive With A PCV Licence?
You can drive minibuses and other passenger vehicles with a PCV licence. This licence will allow you to drive vehicles designed to transport people and typically have 9 to more than 16 passenger seats. To qualify to embark on driver training and become a minibus driver, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and possess a category B car licence.
Conclusion
There you have it – an answer to the question, ‘What is a PCV licence?’. Whether you’re envisioning a career as a friendly bus driver or the backbone of guided tours, you’re one training course and a few practical and theory tests away from achieving your dream. With a high-quality hired vehicle and PCV licence in hand, there is no limit for you.
