Understanding the UK Driving License Categories
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In the UK, driving licenses are issued in various categories, each allowing you to drive specific types of vehicles. Understanding these categories is essential when applying for a license or deciding to upgrade your existing license. This article will explain the different driving license categories in the UK, helping you to determine which one is right for you.
Category B: Standard Car License
The most common driving license category in the UK is Category B, which allows you to drive a standard car. With a Category B license, you can drive vehicles with a maximum weight of 3,500 kg and up to eight passenger seats. You are also permitted to tow a trailer with a maximum weight of 750 kg. If the trailer exceeds this weight, the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer must not exceed 3,500 kg.
For new drivers, obtaining a Category B license involves passing both the theory and practical driving tests. Once you have passed these tests, you will be issued a full driving license that allows you to drive cars and small vans.
Category A: Motorcycle License
If you’re interested in riding a motorcycle, you’ll need to obtain a Category A license. The process for obtaining a motorcycle license depends on your age and the type of motorcycle you wish to ride. There are three subcategories within Category A:
Category AM: Allows you to ride mopeds with a maximum speed of 28 mph.
Category A1: Allows you to ride motorcycles up to 125 cc and a maximum power output of 11 kW.
Category A2: Allows you to ride motorcycles with a power output of up to 35 kW.
To obtain a full Category A license, you must pass the motorcycle theory test, as well as both Module 1 (off-road) and Module 2 (on-road) practical tests. Once you have gained experience with a lower-category license, you can upgrade to a full Category A license, allowing you to ride any motorcycle without restrictions.
Category C: Large Goods Vehicle License
For those interested in driving large goods vehicles (LGVs), such as lorries or trucks, a Category C license is required. This category is further divided into subcategories:
Category C1: Allows you to drive vehicles weighing between 3,500 and 7,500 kg, with a trailer up to 750 kg.
Category C: Allows you to drive vehicles over 7,500 kg, with a trailer up to 750 kg.
Category C+E: Allows you to drive Category C vehicles with a trailer over 750 kg.
Obtaining a Category C license requires passing additional theory and practical tests, as well as meeting higher medical standards. This license is essential for anyone pursuing a career in logistics or transportation.
Category D: Bus and Coach License
If you want to drive buses or coaches, you’ll need a Category D license. This category is also divided into subcategories:
Category D1: Allows you to drive minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats and a maximum length of 8 meters.
Category D: Allows you to drive any bus or coach with more than 16 passenger seats.
Category D+E: Allows you to drive Category D vehicles with a trailer over 750 kg.
Similar to the LGV license, obtaining a Category D license requires passing additional tests and meeting specific medical requirements. This license is essential for those interested in a career in public transport or long-distance coach driving.
Conclusion
Understanding the different driving license categories in the UK is crucial when deciding which license you need. Whether you’re interested in driving a car, riding a motorcycle, or pursuing a career in logistics or public transport, there is a specific license category for you. For more information on driving license categories and how to apply, visit the driving.org. By choosing the right license category, you can ensure you are legally qualified to drive the vehicle of your choice.
