UK Driving License Categories

Introduction

UK Driving License Categories, The UK driving license is divided into different categories, each specifying the type of vehicle a driver is legally allowed to operate. Understanding these categories is essential for anyone looking to drive legally in the UK. Whether you are applying for your first license or considering an upgrade, knowing the UK driving license categories ensures compliance with the law and safe driving.

Main Driving License Categories

Category A (Motorcycles)

• Covers motorcycles, including mopeds and scooters.
• Subcategories include AM, A1, A2, and A.
  • AM: Mopeds with a speed range of 25-45 km/h.
  • A1: Motorcycles up to 125cc and 11 kW power.
  • A2: Motorcycles up to 35 kW power.
  • A: Unlimited power motorcycles, available after progressive access or direct access at age 24.

Category B (Cars)

• Allows driving standard cars with up to 8 passenger seats and a maximum weight of 3,500 kg.
• Also permits towing trailers up to 750 kg.
• Additional entitlement for automatic vs. manual transmission depending on the driving test taken.

Category BE (Car with Trailer)

• Required for towing trailers exceeding 750 kg where the combined weight surpasses 3,500 kg.

Category C (Lorries)

• Needed for large goods vehicles (LGVs) over 3,500 kg.
• Subcategories include:
  • C1: LGVs between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg.
  • C1E: C1 vehicles with trailers over 750 kg (combined limit of 12,000 kg).
  • C: LGVs over 3,500 kg with a trailer up to 750 kg.
  • CE: C category vehicles with trailers over 750 kg.

Category D (Buses and Coaches)

• Required for passenger-carrying vehicles (PCVs).
• Subcategories include:
  • D1: Minibuses with 9-16 seats.
  • D1E: D1 vehicles with trailers over 750 kg.
  • D: Buses with more than 16 seats.
  • DE: D category buses with trailers over 750 kg.

Category F, G, H, and K (Special Vehicles)

• F: Agricultural tractors.
• G: Road rollers.
• H: Tracked vehicles.
• K: Pedestrian-controlled vehicles.

How to Upgrade Your Driving License

To upgrade your license to another category, you typically need to:

1. Meet the age requirement for the category.
2. Apply for a provisional entitlement.
3. Pass a medical examination (for some categories like C and D).
4. Complete the required training and pass a practical driving test.

Conclusion

Understanding UK driving license categories is crucial for ensuring you drive legally and safely. Whether you’re looking to drive a motorcycle, car, bus, or heavy goods vehicle, knowing the right category for your needs helps you stay compliant with UK road regulations. Always check the latest DVLA rules before applying for a new category.

For more details, visit the official Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) website.