D1 and D1+E Courses
Our comprehensive D1 and D1+E courses are designed for those who plan to drive a minibus for non-commercial purposes. One, two and three day courses are available, each of which finishes with the test.
D1 Training Courses Tailored To You
With over 25 years of experience guiding pupils through their training and into their test, we are proud to have built an outstanding reputation for our D1 training courses. Our training is completed on a one-to-one basis to ensure that pupils feel 100% confident ahead of their test and includes practising manoeuvres, conducting mock tests or running through the show me, tell me questions.
During your training, your instructor will always adapt their teaching methods to suit you, accomodating extra time to any areas you feel need more work. For those who have little or no experience driving a larger vehicle, we would always recommend our full three-day course, as this allows thorough training with more flexibility to tailor the schedule to you.
Driver Requirements For D1 Training
If you wish to drive a minibus and had gained your driving licence before 1st January 1997, you will be able to drive a D1 category vehicle. However, if you have obtained your licence after 1st January 1997, you will not have the relevant category licence and will be required to undergo professional D1 training to drive a minibus legally.
Although driving licences obtained before 1st January 1997 already hold the D1 category, they do have the 101 restriction in place. This means that while you can drive a minibus, you cannot drive it for hire or reward, so additional training will be necessary should you be planning to do either of these.
Once you have gained your D1 licence, you will be able to drive a minibus providing that you meet the following requirements:
- You are over the age of 21
- You have had your car driving licence for over 2 years
- You meet “Group 2” medical standards if you are over 70
- You are driving on a voluntary basis, and the minibus is used for social purposes by a non-commercial body
- The maximum weight of the minibus is no more than 3.5 tonnes or 4.25 tonnes if it includes specialist equipment
- You are not towing a trailer
Our D1 Driver Training Courses
To ensure that you can make the most out of your time with your instructor, we offer two different D1 driver training courses depending on your requirements:
Frequently Asked Questions
For more information on what to expect from your D1 training and test, take a look at our helpful FAQs.
Sharing Excellent Feedback
"Pure Driving is by far the best training company around, the instructors have been excellent every time that I have used them. The standard of teaching is so high, but the course prices stay such good value for money. Have recommended them to many others who have also had a fantastic experience!"