What Is a D1 Provisional Licence?
A D1 provisional licence is the first step towards obtaining a full Category D1 minibus licence in the UK. It gives you the legal entitlement to drive a minibus (9–16 passenger seats) under supervision during your training period, and it is required before you can book your D1 practical driving test with the DVSA.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a D1 Provisional Licence
- Check your current licence. If you passed your car test before 1 January 1997, you may already have D1 entitlement on your licence. Check the back of your photocard for the D1 category.
- Complete a D4 medical examination. Because D1 is a Group 2 licence category, you must pass a DVLA D4 medical before applying. The examination is carried out by a GP or occupational health doctor and typically costs £50–£100.
- Complete form D2. Download and complete the DVLA D2 application form (Application for a Driving Licence). You will need to include your D4 medical certificate and two passport-style photographs.
- Submit your application. Post the completed D2 form, your current photocard licence, D4 certificate, and photographs to the DVLA in Swansea. There is no fee for adding a provisional entitlement to an existing licence.
- Wait for your updated licence. The DVLA typically processes applications within 3–4 weeks. Your updated licence will show D1 provisional entitlement.
Can I Apply Online?
Currently, adding a D1 provisional entitlement to an existing licence cannot be done fully online via GOV.UK — you must submit the D2 paper form with your D4 medical certificate. This is different from applying for a standard car provisional licence, which can be done online.
D4 Medical Requirements for D1
The D4 medical for a D1 provisional licence covers the Group 2 standard, which is stricter than the standard car driving medical. Key areas assessed include:
- Visual acuity (minimum 6/7.5 in the better eye and 6/60 in the worse eye)
- Peripheral vision (minimum 160-degree field of vision)
- Blood pressure and cardiovascular health
- Diabetes management (insulin-treated diabetes requires DVLA notification)
- Neurological conditions including epilepsy and sleep disorders
Your GP will complete the D4 form and sign it. You then include the completed D4 with your D2 application.
How Long Does the Application Take?
Allow 4–6 weeks from submitting your D2 application to receiving your updated licence. If you are planning to start D1 training, book your training course to start after you expect to receive your licence. Your training provider can advise on typical DVLA processing times.
What Happens After I Get My D1 Provisional?
Once you have your D1 provisional entitlement, you can:
- Book and sit the D1 theory test (multiple choice and hazard perception).
- Begin practical D1 training with a DVSA-approved instructor.
- Book and sit the DVSA D1 practical driving test.
GS Driver Training offers D1 minibus training from our Surrey centre. Our instructors will guide you through every stage of the process. View our D1 course page or contact us to discuss your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to add D1 provisional to my licence?
No — adding a provisional entitlement to an existing photocard licence is free. You only pay for the D4 medical examination and the theory and practical tests.
Can I drive a minibus while waiting for my D1 provisional?
No — you must have the D1 provisional entitlement on your licence before you can drive a minibus under instruction.
How long is a D1 provisional valid?
D1 provisional entitlement is valid until your 70th birthday (or for 3 years if you are over 67 when you apply).
