If you passed your car driving test before 1 January 1997, you may have a D1 entitlement on your driving licence — but it may come with a "101" restriction. This restriction limits when and how you can use that entitlement. This guide explains exactly what the D1 101 restriction means, who it affects, and how to remove it.
What Is the D1 Entitlement?
Category D1 covers minibuses with 9 to 16 passenger seats (not including the driver). Drivers who passed their car test before 1 January 1997 were automatically granted D1 entitlement as part of their licence — this was a legacy provision that no longer applies to drivers who passed after that date.
What Does the "101" Restriction Mean?
The code "101" on a driving licence means the D1 entitlement is restricted to "not for hire or reward". In practical terms, this means:
- You can drive a minibus for personal, non-commercial purposes
- You cannot be paid to drive the minibus
- You cannot carry passengers for hire or reward (i.e. you cannot charge for the journey)
- The minibus must not be used commercially
This restriction is shown on the back of your photocard licence as "D1 101" in the vehicle categories section.
Who Has the D1 101 Restriction?
The D1 101 restriction applies to drivers who:
- Passed their Category B (car) driving test before 1 January 1997
- Were automatically granted D1 entitlement as part of that legacy provision
- Have not subsequently taken and passed a full D1 practical test
If you passed your car test on or after 1 January 1997, you do not have D1 entitlement at all — you would need to apply for a D1 provisional licence and take the full D1 test.
Can I Drive a Minibus for a Charity or School with D1 101?
This is a common question. The answer depends on the circumstances:
- Volunteer driving for a charity: If you are not paid and the passengers are not charged for the journey, D1 101 may be sufficient. However, if the charity receives any payment related to the transport, it may be considered hire or reward.
- School minibus: If you are a paid employee driving a school minibus as part of your job, this is likely to be considered hire or reward, and D1 101 would not be sufficient.
- Section 19 permit: Certain non-commercial organisations can use a Section 19 permit to allow drivers with a standard car licence (or D1 101) to drive a minibus for their members without needing a full D1 licence.
If in doubt, seek legal advice or contact the Traffic Commissioner's office.
How to Remove the D1 101 Restriction
To remove the 101 restriction and gain full D1 entitlement (allowing you to drive minibuses for hire or reward), you must:
- Apply for a D1 provisional licence (D2 form + D4 medical)
- Pass the PCV theory test (multiple choice and hazard perception)
- Complete D1 practical training with a DVSA-approved instructor
- Pass the DVSA D1 practical driving test
Once you pass the D1 practical test, DVLA will update your licence to show full D1 entitlement without the 101 restriction.
D1 Training at GS Driver Training
GS Driver Training offers D1 minibus training in Surrey for drivers looking to remove their 101 restriction and gain full D1 entitlement. Our experienced instructors will prepare you thoroughly for the DVSA D1 practical test. Call us on 01252 447808 to discuss your training needs.
