D1+E Minibus & Trailer Training
Minibus with Trailer — Tow Over 750kg
About This Course
The D1+E licence lets you drive a minibus with up to 16 passenger seats while towing a trailer over 750kg. This is essential for schools, colleges, community groups, charities, outdoor activity centres, and sports clubs that need to transport passengers and equipment together. Our DVSA-approved instructors train you in a real Ford Transit minibus coupled to an Ifor Williams twin-axle trailer — the same combination used on test day. Courses include both the part 3a off-road manoeuvring exercises (uncoupling, recoupling, and reversing) and the part 3b on-road driving assessment. We offer 8, 12, and 16-hour packages depending on your experience level, with prices starting from £938 inc. VAT.
Course Prices
All prices include VAT. DVSA driving test included in all packages.
D1+E Course 8 hours
Includes DVSA Driving Test
Driving Course Only
£938 inc. VAT+ Medical, Theory & Revision
£1,088 inc. VAT+ Driver CPC (All Included)
£1,438 inc. VATD1+E Course 12 hours
Includes DVSA Driving Test
Driving Course Only
£1,322 inc. VAT+ Medical, Theory & Revision
£1,472 inc. VAT+ Driver CPC (All Included)
£1,822 inc. VATD1+E Course 16 hours
Includes DVSA Driving Test
Driving Course Only
£1,706 inc. VAT+ Medical, Theory & Revision
£1,856 inc. VAT+ Driver CPC (All Included)
£2,206 inc. VAT| Courses | D1+E Course 8 hours Includes DVSA Driving Test | D1+E Course 12 hours Includes DVSA Driving Test | D1+E Course 16 hours Includes DVSA Driving Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hours Taught: | 8 hours | 12 hours | 16 hours |
| DVSA test 3a + 3b included: | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Book Driving course only | £938 inc. VAT | £1,322 inc. VAT | £1,706 inc. VAT |
| Add Medical, Theory, Hazard Perception Test and Online Revision | £1,088 inc. VAT | £1,472 inc. VAT | £1,856 inc. VAT |
| Add Driver CPC (Includes all of the above) | £1,438 inc. VAT | £1,822 inc. VAT | £2,206 inc. VAT |
Use code SAVE10 at checkout for 10% off the training fee — full online payment only. DVSA test fees are set by DVSA and not discountable.
Flexible Financing Available
Make your course more affordable with flexible payment plans. 3 months is interest-free, or choose 6 or 12-month plans with competitive rates.
Monthly Payment
£80.69
Total Cost
£968.25
Payment Schedule:
Apply through our finance partner or call 01252 447808 to discuss options
Finance options available. Contact us for details.
Job Market & Salary Expectations
D1+E drivers enjoy good job market demand with competitive salaries:
The job market for D1+E drivers is strong in specialist passenger transport and tour operator sectors.
What You'll Learn
How D1+E (Minibus + Trailer) Training Compares
| Vehicle Type | 9–16 passengers | 9–16 + trailer | Over 3.5t articulated | Over 3.5t rigid |
| Training Duration | 3–5 days | 4–7 days | 5–10 days | 5–7 days |
| Typical Salary | £20k–£28k+ | £24k–£36k+ | £28k–£50k+ | £22k–£32k+ |
| Job Demand | Good | Medium | Very High | High |
Why Choose GS Driver Training for D1+E (Minibus + Trailer) Training?
Expert D1+E Specialists
Our instructors specialise in minibus trailer training.
High First-Time Pass Rate
We achieve a 90%+ first-time pass rate for D1+E candidates.
Flexible Scheduling
We offer flexible course dates.
Modern Training Vehicles
Train on modern minibuses with trailers.
Comprehensive Support
We handle all the paperwork so you can focus on training.
Proven Track Record
Over 7 consecutive awards as the best HGV training company.
Student Testimonials
"Excellent D1+E training. I now work for a major tour operator earning £30k+ annually."
— Helen T., Tour Operator
Passed April 2024
"Professional training and modern vehicles. Highly recommended for D1+E."
— George S., Coach Driver
Passed March 2024
"Great value for money. I passed my D1+E test and landed a job within 2 weeks."
— Susan M., Specialist Transport
Passed February 2024
What's Included
Compare what each package includes to find the right option for you
Entry Requirements
Requirements vary depending on the package you choose
Frequently Asked Questions
What is D1+E minibus and trailer training?
D1+E training qualifies you to drive a minibus with 9 to 16 passenger seats and tow a trailer over 750kg. This is ideal for schools, charities, outdoor centres, and sports clubs that transport passengers and equipment.
Do I need a D1 licence first?
Yes, you must hold a valid D1 licence before taking the D1+E course. If you do not yet have D1, we can arrange both courses for you.
How much does D1+E training cost?
Our D1+E courses start from £938 inc. VAT for the 8-hour driving-only package. All packages include DVSA driving tests 3a and 3b. Medical and CPC add-on options are available.
What vehicles are used for D1+E training?
You will train on a Ford Transit minibus with an Ifor Williams trailer, giving you practical experience with the type of combination used in real-world passenger and equipment transport.
How long does D1+E training take?
Our D1+E courses range from 8 to 16 hours. Most learners complete the training within 2 to 4 days depending on the package selected.
Where We Train
We serve drivers across Hampshire, Surrey, and the South East from our base at Dunsfold Airport.
Based on 181 reviews
Tony Sherwood
3 months ago
I had the most Amazing experience and support of the whole team at GS driver training. I signed up for the Class1 C+E (car to Artic course 40 hrs ) From having a chat with Gary to book the course with…
David Warren
2 months ago
Had the best day doing a 1 hour experience driving an artic today. Gary was very patient and supportive as I’d never driven something so big. I’d recommend this to anyone who wants try before doing t…
Clare Langrish-Dixon (CLD)
6 months ago
I purchased an HGV driving experience for my husband and he thoroughly enjoyed his time with GS Driver Training today. They are based at Dunsfold Aerodrome so it’s easy to find and on booking, they p…