Drivers who passed their car test before 1 January 1997 may have D1 entitlement automatically on their licence — but this does not automatically include D1+E. If you are a pre-1997 licence holder who needs to tow a trailer over 750 kg with a minibus, this guide explains what you need to check and what steps you may need to take.
What Pre-1997 Drivers May Have Automatically
Under the rules in force before 1 January 1997, passing a car test automatically granted a range of additional entitlements, including D1 (not for hire or reward). This means many pre-1997 licence holders can drive a minibus with up to 16 passenger seats, provided they are not doing so for hire or reward (i.e., not being paid to carry passengers).
What Pre-1997 Drivers Do Not Automatically Have
The automatic D1 entitlement granted to pre-1997 drivers does not include D1+E. To tow a trailer with a MAM exceeding 750 kg behind a minibus, a pre-1997 driver must obtain D1+E entitlement through training and a practical test, just like any other driver.
Restrictions on Pre-1997 D1 Entitlement
The automatic D1 entitlement granted to pre-1997 drivers is subject to the restriction "not for hire or reward." This means it cannot be used for paid passenger transport — for example, operating a private hire minibus service. It can be used for voluntary, community, or organisational transport where no payment is made for the journey.
Medical Renewal Requirements
Pre-1997 D1 entitlement is subject to the same medical renewal requirements as any other D1 licence. Drivers must renew their D1 entitlement every five years from age 45, and every year from age 65, by completing a D4 medical examination and submitting it to the DVLA. Failure to renew means the D1 entitlement lapses.
Checking Your Licence
Log in to the DVLA's View Driving Licence service at gov.uk to check your current entitlements and any restrictions. If you are unsure what your licence entitlements cover, contact the DVLA or call GS Driver Training on 01252 447808 for a free licence check.
Getting D1+E as a Pre-1997 Driver
If you hold automatic D1 (not for hire or reward) and need to add D1+E, you must complete a D4 medical, apply to the DVLA for provisional D1+E entitlement, complete D1+E training, and pass the D1+E practical test. GS Driver Training can guide you through the entire process. Call 01252 447808 to discuss your requirements.
