Can I Drive a Van on a Car Licence?

If you’ve ever thought about hiring a van but weren’t sure if your licence covers it, you’re not alone. Many people wonder: Can I drive a van on a car licence?  The good news is — in most cases, yes, you can!

Whether you’re moving house, collecting furniture, or transporting work tools, hiring a van can make life much easier. At Standens Self Drive, we offer a wide range of vans suitable for drivers with a standard car licence.

What Does a Car Driving Licence Cover?

In the UK, if you hold a Category B driving licence (the standard car licence), you’re allowed to drive vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes (3,500kg) — that includes most vans.

This means you don’t need a separate van driving licence or special training to hire and drive many popular vans available today. You can legally drive a van without applying for a different van licence, as long as it’s under the weight limit.

Most people with a full UK car licence can drive a 3.5t van without any extra requirements!

What Kind of Vans Can I Drive?

The key factor is weight. If the van’s maximum authorised mass (MAM) is under 3.5 tonnes, you’re good to go with a car licence.

Here are some examples of vans you can typically drive on a Category B licence:

• Small vans (e.g. Ford Transit Connect)
  
• Medium panel vans (e.g. Ford Transit Custom)
• Large vans (e.g. Ford Transit, VW Crafter – up to 3.5t)
  

In short, if you’re hiring a 3.5t van, you’re still covered by what’s commonly referred to as a 3.5t van licence — which is just another way of describing the Category B licence.

Need to hire a van? Explore our van hire options at Standens Self Drive.

Can a New Driver Drive a Van?

Yes, new drivers can drive a van, as long as they have a full UK Category B licence. So even if you’ve recently passed your test, you’re allowed to drive a van under 3.5 tonnes.

That said, some van hire companies may have their own age or experience restrictions. At Standens, we welcome drivers aged 23 or over, provided they hold a clean UK driving licence.

When Do You Need a Different Licence?

There are some situations where your standard car licence won’t cover you:

• If the van exceeds 3.5 tonnes MAM.
• If you’re towing a heavy trailer.
• If you’re using the van commercially with specific loads.
  

In these cases, you may need a C1 licence or additional entitlements. It’s always best to check before hiring.

How to Check Your Licence Online

Not sure what your licence allows? You can check online using the GOV.UK licence checker. It’s quick and easy to see what categories you’re entitled to drive.

And if you’re still unsure, we’re happy to help you find the right van based on your licence type.

Conclusion: Yes, You Probably Can!

So, if you’re thinking about driving a van on a car licence, in most cases, you can! As long as the van is under 3.5 tonnes.

Need a van for moving, work or errands?

Hire a van with Standens Van Hire today – we make van hire easy, reliable, and affordable.