Minibus Category D1 / D1 + E - Hughes Driver Training, the HGV Training & Careers Company Chat Options

Minibus Category D1 / D1 + E

Category
D1 / D1 + E

Learn to drive a Minibus/Minibus with trailer.

Category
D1 / D1 + E

Learn to drive a Minibus/Minibus with trailer.

Our Category D1/D1+E Course is for anyone seeking a minibus licence. With this licence, you'll have the ability to drive minibuses with up to 17 seats (including the driver's seat) and derive an income from driving minibuses for hire and reward.

Having skills in handling passenger vehicles means that you could be in a stronger position to negotiate a better starting salary. As these driving skills can be a valuable asset to potential employers!

Why Category D1/D1+E?

Reasons to choose Category D1/D1+E

  • You could increase your earning potential
  • Minibus drivers are often sought-after by organisations such as schools and community groups
  • Job opportunities are often flexible and could be ideal for someone looking for full-time, part-time or seasonal work.
  • Provides opportunities to get involved with local communities and groups

What can I drive with a Category D1/D1+E licence?

  • Vehicles with 9-16 passenger seats, ideal for small of group transport
  • Vehicles used by local councils and organisations for transporting community members
  • Minibuses used for school runs and student transport
  • Small shuttle buses used to transport passengers to and from airport terminals
  • Minibuses used for guided tours and travel services

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Get in touch

CATEGORY D1 / D1+E · MINIBUS TRAINING

Small groups.
A confident driver.

Explore minibus and minibus-with-trailer training with Hughes. Tell us what you need to drive and we’ll help you plan your route.

Get my minibus quote →Call 0800 1777 447

Course advice, training options and a personalised quote.

Start with your goalsDiscuss your licence and experience.
Find your training optionsAsk about suitable courses and availability.
Know your next stepUnderstand the costs and what’s included.

YOUR NEXT STEP WITH HUGHES

Get the right licence
for your passengers.

D1 covers minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats and a maximum length of eight metres, with a trailer up to 750kg. D1+E covers qualifying heavier-trailer combinations.

Minibuses serve schools, community groups, shuttle services and other organisations. Your licence requirements depend on the vehicle and how it will be used.

Find your starting point ↓

START WHERE YOU ARE

Plan for the minibus
you need to drive.

You don’t have to have every answer. Tell us what you want to achieve and we’ll help you understand the options.

CATEGORY D1

Minibus training

Build the skills for the minibus your work or organisation uses.

  • Tell us the passenger capacity and vehicle length.
  • Check existing licence entitlements and restrictions.
  • Discuss the relevant training and qualification stages.
Ask about D1 training →

CATEGORY D1+E

Minibus & trailer training

Explore the route for a minibus with a trailer over 750kg.

  • Check vehicle and trailer weights.
  • Discuss the combined weight limit and licence codes.
  • Confirm the route for your intended use.
Ask about D1+E training →

SUPPORT THROUGH YOUR TRAINING

A clear plan.
A team beside you.

Build your next step around the training you need and the goals that matter to you.

Find your route

Talk through your licence, experience and intended driving. We’ll help you understand the relevant training options.

Talk to the team →

Prepare with a plan

Discuss availability, course details and any requirements before booking. Get clear on costs and what is included.

Ask for my course details →

Build your skills

Work on observation, vehicle control, manoeuvring and smooth passenger vehicle driving. Discuss trailer skills where relevant to your course.

Explore the Training Guide →
Rules for voluntary, school and commercial minibus driving can differ. Confirm the entitlement and restrictions that apply to your intended use.

HEAR FROM A HUGHES LEARNER

Support that makes a difference.

Read Hughes learner reviews ↗
★★★★★
“Incredible team here, very skilled and informative, easy to work with, made my training a joy.”

Jamie Loxley · Class 2 training
Trustpilot · 5 October 2026 · Read the full review ↗

A QUOTE THAT FITS YOUR NEEDS

Get clear on your next step
before you commit.

Your quote depends on the training you need and your current experience. Give us your starting point and we’ll talk through the options.

  • Your course options and relevant requirements
  • What is included in your quote
  • Suitable dates, format and availability
Get my personalised quote →

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED

Your minibus
questions, answered.

Need advice for your circumstances? Ask the team about your options.

Ask a course question →
Do I need D1 to drive a school or community minibus?

Requirements depend on your licence, the vehicle and the circumstances of use. Do not assume an exemption applies; tell us how the minibus will be used and check the official guidance.

What is D1+E?

D1+E covers a D1 minibus towing a trailer over 750kg, with a combined maximum authorised mass up to 12 tonnes, subject to licence restrictions.

I have an older licence. Do I need training?

You may have existing entitlement with restrictions. Check your categories and codes, then discuss whether you need a new entitlement or practical training for confidence.

How much does the training cost?

Your quote depends on your starting point and the training you need. Ask us to explain the course, costs and what’s included before you decide.

When and where can I train?

Dates and locations depend on the course and availability. Tell us your preferred area and timeframe so we can confirm suitable options.

Read the current official guidance on GOV.UK ↗.

YOUR NEXT STEP STARTS HERE

Let’s plan your
minibus training.

Tell us a little about yourself. Our team will help you understand your options and get a personalised quote.

  1. Tell us your starting pointShare your preferred location and training interest.
  2. Talk through your optionsDiscuss your experience, goals and preferred dates.
  3. Get a clear next stepUnderstand the course details and costs before deciding.

Prefer a conversation?
0800 1777 447

Enquire about minibus training

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