The advantages of renting a minibus are obvious, but what qualifications are necessary to operate one? Read our first-time driver’s guide to learn all the facts.
Minibuses may not be necessary every day, but in some circumstances, they are ideal.
Perhaps they have selected a stunning yet isolated venue for the celebrations of a friend’s wedding, hen party, or stag party. Or maybe you and your colleagues are going to a business function. Going to a sporting event or music festival with a big group? There are much worse options than getting into a minibus.
With a skilled driver behind the wheel, your company can unwind and enjoy the view. It also indicates that everyone is welcome to have a drink on special occasions! (Obviously, not include the driver.)
Additionally, you are in command of the timetable but not the route if you hire a driver; the latter will be planned for you.
Minibuses are roomier than public transportation or carpooling, providing you with more legroom and overhead luggage storage. They’re also excellent for fostering camaraderie and a lively party vibe.
Minibus hire may seem a bit expensive at first, but group travel usually ends up being more economical than everyone going it alone.
Gang travel reduces carbon emissions in addition to expenses.
A minibus saves money and time, so there’s no need to waste time standing around at the bus or train station.
Of course, there is also the option of driving yourself instead of hiring a driver. Let’s examine the legal limitations on who is able to hire a minibus before you hit “book” on that funmobile.
Let’s start by thinking about hiring a minibus for non-business use. “Non-commercial” refers to the fact that there is no financial exchange between the passengers and the hire party. It isn’t for “hire or reward” in legalese; in that instance, as we shall see, the regulations are different.
In other words, you are not trying to turn a profit when you hire a minibus. You must have a licence, of course, but what kind is appropriate?
A driver’s license is sufficient for a car that can accommodate up to 16 people, but only if you, the license holder, also fulfil specific requirements. They are:
Unfortunately, your driver’s license won’t work if you don’t meet these requirements, and you’ll need to apply for a special minibus license. (Yes, everybody who passed their driving test after 1996 is included in that.)
In connection with the last point, you must complete a D2 application form and have a doctor write a D4 medical examination report if you are 70 years of age or older and renewing your driver’s license.
Consider hiring a minivan to transport your neighbourhood football team to a game. To pay for operating expenses, you might have to charge your gamers a few pounds each. The regulations are a little different because money is being exchanged, and a minibus permit is required.
Again, certain conditions apply if you want to make this application.
Your next course of action, if this describes you, is to apply online at the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
All of the aforementioned limitations are applicable to “non-commercial” minibus hires, where the only money that may be exchanged is to pay operating expenses rather than to turn a profit.
However, there are two documents you will require if you want to work as a commercial minibus driver for hire.
You must first have a provisional entitlement to a minibus. This is also known as a “passenger-carrying vehicle” (PCV) licence. Second, a public service vehicle (PSV) operator’s licence is required.
In order to operate a minibus for financial gain, you must have certain documents.
It depends! The first thing you should do if you wish to operate a minibus abroad is to contact the licensing body in the country where you plan to go and request further details.
There you have it, the dos and don’ts of minibus driving. Are you trying to hire one? Check out our minibus hire London service; we have a number of roomy buses with different seating arrangements.
