Van hire guide

What can I drive on a normal car licence?

A full UK car licence (category B) lets you drive vehicles up to 3,500kg maximum weight with up to eight passenger seats. That covers small, medium and large vans, Luton vans, 3.5 tonne tippers, pickups, cars, people carriers and 9-seat minibuses.

I passed my test before 1997. Can I drive bigger vehicles?

Usually, yes. If you passed your car test before 1 January 1997 your licence will normally include C1 (vehicles up to 7,500kg, so a 7.5 tonne lorry) and D1 (minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats, not for hire or reward). Check the categories on the back of your photocard.

What licence do I need for a 15 or 17-seat minibus?

A minibus with more than eight passenger seats normally needs D1 on your licence. Most drivers who passed their car test before 1 January 1997 have it. If you passed later, choose a 9-seat minibus or ask about the options when you call.

Which van size do I need for a house move?

As a rough guide: a medium van suits a studio or one-bedroom flat, a large van suits one or two bedrooms, and a Luton with a tail lift suits two or three bedrooms. For bigger homes, think about a 7.5 tonne lorry or two trips. Tell us what you are moving and you'll be pointed to the right size.

Can I hire if I'm under 25?

Often, yes, but the minimum age depends on the vehicle and the insurance. Younger drivers may pay more or be limited to smaller vehicles. Give your age when you ask for a quote and you'll get a straight answer.

What do I need to bring?

Your full driving licence, a second proof of address, and a debit or credit card for the deposit. You may also be asked for a DVLA check code, which you can get from the gov.uk 'View or share your driving licence' service.

Do clean air zones affect hire vehicles?

Some cities charge older vehicles to enter a clean air or low emission zone, including London (ULEZ), Birmingham, Bradford, Sheffield, Bristol, Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen. Hire vehicles are generally recent models that meet the standards, but ask when you book if your route passes through one.

Is there a deposit?

Yes. A refundable deposit is normally taken when you collect the vehicle and returned after it comes back in the same condition. The amount depends on the vehicle and will be confirmed with your quote.

Licence rules are set by the DVLA and can change. Check gov.uk if you're unsure.